5 Ways to Style a Simple White Maxi Dress for Your Summer Travels, According to a Shopping Writer

I may be a shopping writer, but when it comes to my personal style, I largely aim to use the pieces I already have in my closet to mix and match unique outfits—especially when I’m packing for a trip. During the summertime, my favorite white Everlane maxi dress is the most-worn item in my collection, which got me thinking about how many different ways I could style the same base layer while changing just a few key pieces from each look.

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to make your own plain white maxi dress feel brand new during your next vacation, I’ve pulled together five outfits that are travel-friendly, flattering, and perfect for the summer heat while making use of layering and accessories. Whether you’re preparing for a trip of fancy dinners, shopping, or beachside adventures, these outfits will allow you to pack less without sacrificing your personal style, so you can use what you already have to create something new. 

Outfit 1

I believe that a white maxi dress is the most versatile basic you could keep in your closet, and leaning into the monochromatic trend is the easiest way to keep your outfit feeling fresh (while remaining cool) this summer.

This flattering Everlane dress is designed with a more fitted top and a flouncy skirt that will pair well with an oversized white button-down to protect your shoulders from the sun without causing you to overheat. You can wear the sleeves draped over your shoulders to lean into the old-money aesthetic or leave it loose and open. Add a white belt bag and a simple pair of cork sandals to complete the look. And if you have dinner plans in the evening, transform this outfit by simply swapping out the belt bag for a nicer purse. 

Outfit 2

If you’re looking to inject some cool-girl style into your travel outfits, try dressing down your white maxi dress by pairing it with a cropped graphic tee to create the illusion that you’re wearing a skirt instead. 

The Gap Crop Graphic T-shirt is adorned with a darling cherry print and will layer easily over the fitted bodice of this luxe cotton maxi to create a more casual fit. Plus, the contrast of the snug top and billowing skirt will look beautiful in all your vacation photos. A simple pair of black Adidas Court Sneakers will keep you comfortable during walking tours, travel days, and beyond, while a matching black and white backpack will offer plenty of room to store your souvenirs and other essentials without ruining the look. 

Outfit 3

Traveling in the summer doesn’t always entail sweltering weather, so if you’re aiming to still wear your favorite white maxi dress during a cooler day, pairing it with an oversized denim jacket and a roomy tote bag is the way to go—especially if you’ve been known to do some shopping during your adventures.

This faded Madewell Denim Trucker Jacket is currently on sale for 50 percent off and instantly dresses down even your most feminine frocks. However, if you don’t want to lose that delicate charm, pair this outfit with a wedged heel that’s stylish but still comfy to walk in. The Crocs Brooklyn Low Wedges are a traveler favorite, and they’ll look great when worn with the spacious Lands’ End Open-top Canvas Tote Bag that will get just as much use at the farmers market or park this summer as during vacation. 

Outfit 4

It doesn’t take much to completely transform your simple white dress into a brand new outfit—just add a crochet cardigan on top and you’ll have nailed the bohemian look of your dreams while still keeping your style summer-friendly.

This tie-front cardigan is breathable and easy to pack while acting as a light layer to wear during dinner or while sightseeing, and the delicate crochet detailing matches perfectly with the braided straps of these ornate yet easy-to-walk-in sandals. A straw clutch makes this outfit fancy enough to wear to a nice dinner at a resort or in a foreign city, but it’s particularly on-trend for a beach getaway.

Outfit 5

A Parisian vacation may not be within everyone’s budget this summer, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still channel that effortless style wherever you’re actually headed this season—and a white maxi dress is one of the only pieces you need.

Since French style is relatively simple, a basic black cardigan (buttoned only at the top!) will add some luxe texture to your dress, and a pair of strappy sandals will have you ready to take on cobblestone streets in no time. A pop of color from a red crossbody bag is the finishing touch this très chic outfit needs, so no matter if you’re spending the day at a museum or the airport, you can rest assured you’ll be the best-dressed traveler wherever you go. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.