Resort casual wear a.k.a. resortwear is one of those terms you often come across while planning a vacation. The phrase refers to a style of dress worn by those visiting a vacation resort or sailing the high seas on a cruise ship. You may also run across this style of dress at an upscale country club. Most of these places provide dress code guidelines to follow. Even so, you can infuse a bit of flair into resort outfits, maintaining a sense of cool without bending the rules.
Is Resort Casual the Same as Casual Friday?
Many workplaces observe casual Fridays, a day that relaxes the regular business attire dress code. However, casual Friday rules can be different from one office to the next. Typically, both men and women come to work wearing casual slacks and tops. Shorts, jeans and t-shirts may also be perfectly acceptable, depending on workplace dress code rules.
In general, resort casual is more reserved than casual Friday clothing. There are often strict limits as to how casual you can be. For instance, jeans are usually not allowed. Clothing should be tasteful, wrinkle-free and neat. Conservative necklines, hemlines and dress straps are the norm. So, yes, some of your casual day work clothing can fit the resort mold. But, leave behind clothing that crosses the “too casual” line.
What Can Men Wear?
The typical resort wear outfit for men is the same type of outfit worn at numerous country clubs. Slacks and polo shirts are preferred by many guys. You’ll never go wrong with a nice pair of khakis, a polo shirt and a pair of spiffy loafers or boat shoes. Sandals and clog-like shoes are no nos. You can switch things up by alternating these casual basics with button down shirts and linen pants.
Make sure all shirts you bring with you come with a collar. Collared shirts are expected, which means no t-shirts of any kind. You do have free reign when it comes to colors and patterns. Do you need to wear a tie? Not usually, but you may want to bring one anyway. A good-fitting sports jacket provides a bit more polish when going out to “jacket required” restaurants and events.
What Can Women Wear?
Resort casual guidelines can be a bit murkier for women. At some places, you may be expected to wear nice dresses or skirts. Other places are fine with women wearing slacks and nice tops. Regardless of your personal tastes, opt for conservative necklines and wide straps. Acceptable dress and skirt lengths are knee-length, mid-length or maxi. You may be able to wear open-toe sandals, depending on the rules. In general, wear shoes such as solid color pumps, close-toe sandals, loafers or fashionable walking shoes.
Is Aloha Wear Acceptable?
Absolutely. In fact, Aloha clothing can add spice and color to your resortwear looks.
Aloha shirts for men. Mix things up by choosing rayon Hawaiian shirtsin tropical prints and solid color styles. All shirts of our button-down shirts have collars, and the relaxed fit is comfortable for day and evening outings.
Aloha shirts and sundresses for women. Sophisticated women’s resort shirts come in a range of colors and tropical pattern styles. Create an outfit by pairing these shirts with neutral-color slacks and a low-heel pump or loafers. If you enjoy wearing summer dresses, tasteful mid-length tank dresses and A-line dresses are great choices.