When you’re heading off on a weekend getaway, you don’t want to be caught short without the right women’s clothes. It’s important you have outfits that are truly comfortable for lounging around at that holiday house or hotel, but also you likely need clothing that’s functional, in case you head off for a light stroll through a new city, or even a bushwalk through rural terrain. Then, there are those moments where you need to pop out for brunch (after your sleep-in of course), or for your evening meal (after your holiday siesta!). That’s when you’ll want to be looking a little fancy in a special dress.
Add to those requirements, you don’t want to have to take too much clothing with you on a weekend getaway. That’s why dresses are such a good option. A casual dress does all the work of a skirt and top, or pants and top, in one garment. Add to that, dresses are adaptable and can work for a range of different scenarios. The right dress can work on a mountain hike, venture to a gallery, or trip to the beach. And with the right styling, you can even carry some casual dresses into the evening, especially during the spring and summer months.
Let’s look at which casual dress styles are worth throwing into that small suitcase for your weekend getaway. Remember, one dress can do a lot of work, so it’s possible to take just one with you. Alternatively, you can pack a different one for each day that you’re away, and maybe pop in another if you’re heading away to attend a special event. What does this all mean? It means that your suitcase will be light! Phew!
The Weekend Getaway Edit
A Midi Dress
You absolutely must pack a midi dress when you head off on a weekend vacation. Why? Midi dresses are a classic length (the hem sits midway between the knee and ankle), and are flattering on pretty much everybody! Midi dresses are also a great crossover option, so you can wear them on really casual outings, as well as more formal outings. So, wear the midi dress to the park for a stroll, and later, out to the pub or restaurant for your evening meal.
Unlike short dresses, you don’t have any of the worries of your dress riding up when you bend to pick something up, or when you sit on a chair. And unlike maxi dresses, your dress won’t be swimming around your legs. So whilst short and maxi length dresses definitely have a place in a getaway wardrobe, a midi dress comes up trumps as the most practical and versatile choice for a weekend sojourn.
Don’t forget, if your getaway revolves around a hen’s or a wedding, midi dresses are the optimal length. Cocktail dresses are often midi length, so be sure to throw some fun party frocks into your suitcase. (See our Engagement Party dress collection for more ideas.)
Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are a versatile option for casual dressing, and are ideal to take on weekend getaways. Whether they are adjustable at the waist, or are simply in a wrap style, wrap dresses cinch at the waist and show off your curves. They tend to be made in comfortable fabrics, and can be adjustable for ultimate comfort. They look great, are easy to move around in, and feel great to wear. What’s not to love?
General Casual Dresses
What casual dress you choose to take for your holiday will depend on the season. In spring, you might enjoy going with the floral flow by packing a floral maxi dress into your bag. This will give you a sophisticated yet fun outfit that will transition seamlessly from morning outings into evening outings. In summer, a linen casual dress is a must-have, as it will be comfortable and breathable. In autumn, cotton, viscose and polyester casual dresses can all work well. You might want to add under or outerlayers if the weather is cool. And in winter, knit casual dresses are essential if you plan on being cosy.
Tips for choosing getaway casual dresses
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Research where you are going and consider what activities you’re likely to do there (that is, if you plan on leaving your holiday accommodation at all). Once you know where you want to visit, consider what casual dress will be most suitable. Most casual dresses work for a variety of activities, however obviously a maxi dress won’t work so well on a bushwalk. Whereas it will be a great option for dinner at a beachside restaurant. So consider your plans, and take dresses to suit.
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Consider going minimal. If you’re a fan of the capsule wardrobe, you’ll likely be happy with just one casual dress for the entire weekend away. (If you prefer variety, throw in more dresses! You’re on holiday after all, so you are allowed as many costume changes as you want!)
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Avoid laundry. For a weekend getaway, you probably won’t want to do laundry (leave that for when you get home). So, it makes it easier if you pack enough casual dresses to see you through all the days you’re away. In saying that, some fabrics, such as nylon and polyester, can be washed and dried very quickly, so if you need to do some spot cleaning or wash in your hotel basin at night, it’s likely your dress will be dry by the next day, especially in summer.
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Pack extra layers. If the weather report is uncertain, it’s a good idea to pack underlayers so that you can be a little warmer beneath your dress. Also, pack outer layers, like a cardigan, blazer, denim jacket, vegan leather jacket, or coat, for cooler temperatures. You don’t need to pack all of them! But it’s better not to be caught short, as buying these items in holiday towns can be pricey!
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Consider your footwear. For very casual dresses, sneakers or sandals will work fine for most day activities. When you want to look a little more special, a sandal with a heel or a wedge can look nice with a spring summer dress. Remember, you don’t want to pack too many shoes, but you want to make sure you’re covered on both the comfort and looking fabulous fronts!
Casual Dresses at Femme Connection
Seeking the perfect women’s dresses for an upcoming getaway? Look no further than Femme Connection’s casual dresses collection. We also have collections for wrap dresses, maxi dresses, midi dresses and party dresses, that will offer all you need for your weekend escape!