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Top Resort Wear for Women over 50: Here’s What to Wear

Honey Good showing her resort wear for women over 50

Resort wear for women over 50 doesn’t have to be a mystery. I’ll walk you through it.

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Let’s take a deep dive into resort attire, shall we? As a woman over 50, you have a distinctive sense of style and sophistication. In this article, we will delve into the world of resort dress code definitions tailored specifically for you, a woman with moxie who knows how to enjoy life to the fullest. I’ll share my personal outfits and links to similar items or visuals you can use as inspiration. 

Resort attire encompasses a range of styles suitable for various occasions, from casual poolside lounging to glamorous evening events. (Read this detailed guide to cocktail dresses for women over 50!) You often seek refined and tasteful clothing options that reflect your unique personality. You appreciate classic designs with a modern twist, opting for sophisticated cuts and luxurious fabrics that flatter your figure.

Have a peek at my must-haves for summer 2023, and how to wear a belt bag (which is essential for resort travel!)! 

Shopping for Resort Wear for Women

When it comes to shopping for resort attire, you’ll be surprised at what you can find at your favorite local shop or department store. There’s no need to shop anywhere special unless the dress code specifies formal eveningwear.

Seek out stores that offer high-quality, timeless pieces in luxurious fabrics and sophisticated cuts that flatter your figure. Look for boutiques that provide a personalized shopping experience, where knowledgeable staff can assist you in finding the perfect resort wear that reflects the you in you. 

Resort Dress Code Definitions for Women over 50

image of graphic featuring photo of Emilio Pucci dress paired with Saint Laurent strappy platform shoes hanging outside of Honey Good's closet showing the best resort wear for women over 50

To me, this is the epitome of resort wear for women over 50. The flowy material and pattern make me feel as though I’m somewhere far away even now!

Now, let’s explore the different elements of resort attire that you should consider when preparing for your vacation. Always do your research and look into the resort that you’re visiting for tips!

Daytime Resort Attire

During the day, comfort is key. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen or silk that will keep you cool while still looking effortlessly chic. Choose flowy sundresses, wide-leg pants, and linen blouses as your go-to choices. Accessorize with oversized sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and stylish sandals to complete your look.

Poolside Glamour

For lounging by the pool or enjoying a beachside cocktail, choose elegant swimwear that complements your body shape and provides the necessary support. Embrace sophisticated one-piece swimsuits or tankinis paired with stylish cover-ups like a colorful sarong. Add a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and metallic sandals to enhance your poolside glamour and a touch of sophistication when transitioning from the beach to other resort activities.

Evening Elegance

When the sun sets, it’s time to embrace evening elegance. Opt for tailored pantsuits or flowy maxi dresses in rich fabrics like silk or chiffon. Classic colors such as black, navy, or jewel tones are always a safe bet, but don’t shy away from bold prints and patterns if they suit your personal style. Complete your ensemble with statement jewelry, a glamorous clutch, and sophisticated heels. We have a more detailed section on this below.

Resort-Specific Dress Codes for Women Over 50

image of honey good's resort wear outfit hanging outside of closet

Before packing your resort attire, be sure to check the specific dress code.

Certain upscale resorts may have specific dress codes for their dining establishments or evening events. Pay attention to these guidelines, which may require cocktail dresses or more formal attire. Be prepared to dress up in elegant evening gowns or sophisticated cocktail dresses, ensuring you adhere to the resort’s guidelines while still showcasing your personal style.

Dressing for a resort vacation offers an opportunity to showcase your refined style and explore fashion choices that make you feel beautiful and confident. By selecting high-quality clothing and accessories that suit your body shape and personality, you can create stunning ensembles that turn heads and reflect the inner you. 

Lady’s Resort Wear: Casual Versus Evening Resort Wear

Whether you’re strolling along the shoreline, enjoying a gourmet dinner, or mingling at a cocktail party, resort attire empowers you, as a woman over 50, to express your unique sense of style. So, embrace the resort dress code with enthusiasm, and let your elegance shine through every outfit you choose.

Casual Resort Wear


Here are some key elements of casual resort wear:

Flowy Sundresses 

Opt for lightweight, breezy sundresses in vibrant colors or playful prints. Choose fabrics like cotton or linen that keep you cool and relaxed in warm weather.

Maxi Skirts or Wide-Leg Pants 

Embrace the relaxed vibe with maxi skirts or wide-leg pants. These loose-fitting bottoms provide freedom of movement while exuding a stylish and laid-back feel.

Tunics and Blouses

Pair your skirts or pants with loose-fitting tunics or breezy blouses. Look for fabrics like chiffon or silk for an elegant touch.

Stylish Shorts

For a more casual and playful look, consider tailored shorts in comfortable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Combine them with lightweight tops or casual shirts.

Resort-Style Shirts

Embrace the classic resort look with button-down shirts in breathable fabrics like linen. Roll up the sleeves for a relaxed feel.

Comfortable Footwear

Opt for stylish sandals, espadrilles, or flats to complete your casual resort wear ensemble. Choose comfortable yet fashionable options that allow you to explore the resort with ease.

Evening Resort Wear: Here’s What’s Appropriate

image of: graphic featuring a photograph of honey's resort wear outfit of army green wide leg pants, brown gucci platform sandals, a cream blouse and suede flowy Armani blazer

Combining elegance and comfort are what I think about when putting together a resort look.

Evening resort wear entails a more refined and sophisticated style suitable for formal dinners, cocktail parties, or special events at the resort. It calls for elegance and glamour while maintaining a relaxed and resort-appropriate vibe. Here are some defining elements of evening resort wear:

Cocktail Dresses

Choose knee-length or midi-length cocktail dresses in luxurious fabrics like silk, chiffon, or satin. Opt for flattering silhouettes that accentuate your figure while remaining comfortable. 

Elegant Evening Gowns

For more formal occasions, consider floor-length evening gowns in rich colors and elegant designs. Look for details like beading, sequins, or lace to add a touch of glamour.

Statement Accessories

Enhance your evening attire with statement jewelry such as statement earrings, a statement necklace, or a cocktail ring. These accessories can elevate your outfit and add a glamorous touch.

Chic Evening Jackets

Layer your ensemble with a lightweight evening jacket or a stylish shawl for added sophistication and warmth during cooler evenings.

Clutch or Evening Bag

Carry a small clutch or an elegant evening bag that complements your outfit. Opt for materials like satin, velvet, or metallic finishes for a touch of luxury.

Dressed Up Footwear 

Complete your evening look with comfortable heels or dressy sandals. Look for embellishments like crystals or metallic accents to add a glamorous touch to your footwear.

While flip flops are ideal for strolling along the beach or by the pool, consider dressier sandals or wedges for evening events or when exploring the resort. They add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble while ensuring you can comfortably navigate different terrains.

Remember, both casual resort wear and evening resort wear should reflect your personal style while adhering to the resort’s dress code.

Consider These Things When Traveling to a Resort

image of graphic of honey good's resort wear looks for women over 50

This is one of my favorite resort looks for women over 50, casual and comfortable yet put together.

Finally, when it comes to resort attire for women over 50, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. 

First and foremost, prioritize comfort without compromising style. Look for breathable fabrics and comfortable pieces that allow you to move freely and enjoy your resort vacation to the fullest. Embrace resort dresses that offer both elegance and comfort, with their flowing silhouettes and lightweight materials.


Don’t forget about sun protection during your resort vacation. Shield yourself from the sun’s rays by wearing a wide-brimmed straw hat, which not only adds a stylish element to your outfit but also provides much-needed sun protection for your face and neck. Remember to apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Resort wear for women over 50 is all about embracing your individual style and confidence. Whether you choose to incorporate Bermuda shorts with a breezy tunic for a casual day look or go for an elegant evening gown for a formal dinner, let your fashion choices reflect your personality and make you feel beautiful.

Remember, the essence of resort wear lies in finding the perfect balance between comfort and style. By selecting versatile pieces that cater to your needs, you can effortlessly exude elegance and sophistication during your resort vacation. Embrace resort wear that empowers you to feel confident as a woman over 50.

What’s your favorite resort wear look for women over 50? Please share in the comments. Sharing is caring, darlings!

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*Honey Good may receive a small commission for items purchased through links on this page. This helps with the cost of maintaining this site.

July 14, 2023

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  1. Sandrala says:

    My favorite resort wear was a silk turquoise caftan; I made a pattern on it with salt while at Club Med in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico once upon a time. Wore it to death on vacations & even once used it for an evening dress!!

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