Dressing for the daytime during a tropical beach holiday is easy. Don your favourite swimsuit and cover up, a pair of slip-on sandals, a sunhat and sunglasses and you’re done. Exploring away from the sea and sand usually requires no more than shorts, a t-shirt and sensible shoes.
Knowing what to wear in the evenings is more of a challenge. Longer garments are suitably formal and provide protection from biting insects but can be uncomfortable in the heat and humidity. Follow the outfit ideas in this guide to ensure you look the part while staying cool and comfortable.
Which fabrics suit tropical climates?
First things first: prioritise the fabric when choosing what to wear in tropical climates. Thick fabrics like denim will have you overheating in minutes compared to thinner options like chiffon.
Breathable materials made from natural fibres such as cotton and linen help you feel cooler but can become saturated with moisture and stay wet when you sweat. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon might make you feel hotter, but their moisture-wicking properties will keep you dry even on sultry nights.
3 evening outfits for tropical holidays
1. A lightweight maxi dress or kaftan
Effortlessly elegant, evening dresses in the maxi style are a must for your tropical holiday wardrobe, especially if you’re visiting a conservative country where it’s impolite to show too much skin. Avoid designs with excessive material such as long sleeves and layering, opting instead for simple dresses with thin straps or an off-the-shoulder neckline.
Strappy sandals and statement earrings are a great way to elevate your maxi dress for formal dining or a night on the town.
2. Linen trousers and a camisole
You can achieve a similar effect with linen trousers and a camisole which is a fantastic alternative if you suffer from chafing when walking in warm weather. High-waisted, baggy styles underpin the main trouser trends for 2025 and will feel wonderfully comfortable in the tropics. Match statement linen trousers with a simple cotton camisole in a complementary shade.
We recommend shoes with a heel to maximise the elongating effect of the trousers, whether you favour slim heels or chunky wedges. A lightweight scarf or shawl is a glamorous touch.
3. A midi skirt and crop top
Get the best of both worlds with a midi skirt and crop top combo. This gives you greater freedom of movement than a dress while retaining a fun, feminine feel. For the skirt, choose flowing designs in fabrics that look and feel good such as high-shine silk or polyester prints. Look into the option of co-ordinating tops or plain sports-style pieces in a clever sweat-wicking material.
Pair this look with some chunky sandals, a clutch bag and bold bangles to elevate the outfit or dress it down with lightweight trainers.
