What Not to Wear on a Luxury Vacation: Avoid These Fashion Faux Pas
Let’s be real. When you’re jetting off to a luxury vacation—whether it’s the Amalfi Coast or a yacht in Saint-Tropez—the last thing you want is to look like you took a wrong turn out of a college spring break trip. We’ve all been there: overpacked suitcases, fashion regrets, and outfits that scream, “I didn’t get the memo.” So if you’re wondering what not to wear on a luxury vacation, grab a drink (preferably something with a slice of lime), and let’s chat about it.
Skip the Loud Logos
Logomania is not a vibe here
Sure, some designer logos are iconic, but too many? You might as well wave a flag that says, “Look what I bought on sale!” Luxury vacation style is all about understated elegance, not brand overload.
Avoid:
Monogrammed tees from head to toe
Obnoxious logo belts (you know the ones)
Over-the-top branding on shoes, hats, and bags
Do instead: Choose quiet luxury pieces that whisper sophistication. Think The Row, Toteme, or a minimal silk dress that doesn’t need a label to make a statement.
Say No to Neon
Because highlighters belong on paper
Unless your luxury vacay includes a DJ booth in Ibiza at 3 a.m. (no judgment!), neon colors usually clash with the refined, natural tones of upscale destinations. Picture soft whites, creams, navys—not blinding yellows.
Why skip neon?
It screams “fast fashion”
It’s hard to pair with anything subtle
It rarely photographs well in natural light
Pro Tip: Pack tones that complement the scenery. Neutral linen sets? Yes. Electric green crop tops? Not so much.
Forget the Flip-Flops (Yes, Really)
Unless you’re in the actual shower
You might think flip-flops are a beach essential, but on a luxury trip, they just feel… off. They can cheapen even the most curated outfit and don’t exactly scream sophistication.
Instead, pack:
Sleek leather sandals
Espadrilles or rope slides
Minimalist strappy heels for evening
IMO: It’s worth investing in a comfy, elevated shoe that pulls your look together without looking like you just stepped out of a hostel.
Leave the Wrinkled Pieces at Home
Linen is not the enemy; wrinkles are
I love a good linen co-ord as much as the next fashion girl, but if it looks like it’s been balled up in your suitcase since 2009, skip it. Luxury doesn’t mean disheveled.
Avoid:
Non-iron-friendly fabrics
Anything that needs steaming every 5 minutes
What works:
Pre-washed or textured linen
Travel-friendly silks and crepes
Tailored sets that hold their shape
Quick tip: Bring a portable steamer. Changed. My. Life.
Save the Athleisure for the Airport
Or your morning jog (if you do that on vacation)
Look, I get the appeal. Stretchy pants? Yes please. But unless you’re hopping off a private jet or going straight to a yoga session, leave the leggings in the room.
Replace with:
Flowy maxi dresses
Polished matching sets
Classic white trousers and lightweight blouses
Ever noticed how timeless style always looks expensive? That’s the goal.
Avoid Over-Accessorizing
Coco Chanel said it best: take one thing off
We all love a little glam, but on a luxury getaway, there’s a fine line between effortlessly chic and trying too hard.
Don’t:
Stack ten bangles on one arm
Wear chandelier earrings to the beach
Layer five necklaces with a bikini
Do:
Keep it minimal with statement studs or a single bangle
Choose quality over quantity
Let your outfit do most of the talking
Ditch the Heavy Makeup
Because sweat and foundation are not friends
If you’re vacationing somewhere sunny (and let’s be honest, why wouldn’t you be?), your skin will thank you for skipping the full-face beat.
Instead of:
Heavy contour, full-coverage foundation, matte lips
Go for:
Tinted SPF, lip oil, and a touch of cream blush
Lightweight mascara or just a brow gel
That fresh “I woke up like this” glow (even if it’s all strategic)
Ever noticed how natural makeup somehow makes you look richer? Just me? 🙂
Skip the Flashy Clubwear
Sequins belong on New Year’s Eve
Unless your resort has a built-in nightclub (and you’re actually going), leave the bodycon dresses and stilettos behind. On a luxury vacay, refinement > shock factor.
What to wear for evenings out:
Satin slip dresses
Wide-leg trousers and a silk cami
A tailored linen blazer over a chic jumpsuit
Trust me: Classy gets remembered. Flashy gets forgotten.
Don’t Overpack
Your suitcase shouldn’t need a weightlifting belt
Overpacking is a slippery slope. You bring too much, wear half of it, and end up stressed about outfit choices. Plus, nothing says “luxury” like looking put-together with minimal effort.
Pack smarter:
Build a capsule wardrobe with interchangeable pieces
Stick to neutral tones that mix and match easily
Plan day-to-night options with just a few accessories
FYI: Fewer pieces = more style freedom. Weird, but true.
Avoid Cheap Fabrics
They look it, too
If your dress squeaks when you move or clings in all the wrong places, it’s not vacation-approved. Luxury is in the fabric as much as the design.
Skip:
Polyester everything
Thin rayon that creases instantly
Opt for:
Cotton-poplin
Silk, satin, or crepe
Linen (yes, again—it’s that good)
Your clothes should feel as luxe as the hotel sheets. Period.
Conclusion: When in Doubt, Keep it Classic
At the end of the day, luxury style is less about trends and more about taste. You don’t need to wear head-to-toe designer or be glued to TikTok fashion trends. If it feels polished, effortless, and like it belongs in a travel editorial, it’s a yes.
So what should you absolutely not wear on a luxury vacation? Anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, overdone, or like you’re trying too hard. Stick to the classics, pack thoughtfully, and channel that quiet luxury energy.
You’ve got this. Now go rock that Italian Riviera look—no flip-flops in sight 😉