See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (2024)

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Our top picks for the best travel dresses of 2022: this floral midi this knit maxi this chic shirt dress this flowy number this slinky stunner this faux-wrap mini this stylish sweats alternative this time-saving beaut this bold, bell sleeve dress this shift mini Moon River Smocked Dress Moon River Smocked Dress ASOS Design Curve Knit Maxi Dress ASOS Design Curve Knit Maxi Dress Ena Pelly Bree Cotton Shirt Dress Ena Pelly Bree Cotton Shirt Dress Amuse Society Emiko Dress Amuse Society Emiko Dress ASOS DESIGN Slinky Short Sleeve Maxi Dress in Khaki ASOS DESIGN Slinky Short Sleeve Maxi Dress in Khaki BTFBM Sleeveless Tank Bodycon Dress BTFBM Sleeveless Tank Bodycon Dress NSF Luq Hooded Zip Sweatshirt Dress NSF Luq Hooded Zip Sweatshirt Dress Vix Paula Hermanny Naomi Dress Vix Paula Hermanny Naomi Dress Reb Dolls Karmia Bell Sleeve Tie Waist Mini A Line Dress Reb Dolls Karmia Bell Sleeve Tie Waist Mini A Line Dress Love Bonito Addison Shift Dress Love Bonito Addison Shift Dress ASOS Design Curve Linen Maxi Sundress ASOS Design Curve Linen Maxi Sundress Fe Noel Kaliah Hooded Robe Fe Noel Kaliah Hooded Robe Nasty Gal Button Down Pinafore Mini Dress Nasty Gal Button Down Pinafore Mini Dress FARM Rio Yellow 3D Flowers Midi Dress FARM Rio Yellow 3D Flowers Midi Dress Acne Studios Tie Dye Dress Acne Studios Tie Dye Dress Okay, so here's what you should consider when shopping for travel dresses: Okay, so here's what you should consider when shopping for travel dresses: Why trust Cosmo: Why trust Cosmo: References
See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (1)

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Unless you're the kind of person who intentionally plans on taking a pre-flight #OOTD at the airport (so that you can post on the 'gram before takeoff, of course), figuring out a travel look is often an afterthought. We're usually pouring all our attention and energy into curating the best 'fits to wear once we reach our final destination! But when it's actually time to start the trek, you're probably frantically rummaging through your closet hoping to find something that's both travel appropriate and stylish. More often than not, that results in an ensemble that's comfy, sure, but nowhere near as chic as what's packed away in that carry-on.

Whether you're traveling by bus, train, car, boat, plane, or any other mode of land, sea, or air transport, we get how tough it can be to choose a gorge 'fit that's also extremely functional for the varied stages of the journey. Within the same hour, you could be hustling to the airport, sprinting through the terminal, sweating at the gate, and freezing once you've boarded. Or, you might find yourself uncomfortable as hell on a looong drive, regretting the decision to wear too-stiff jeans or a cute but itchy AF sweater. Don't stress: we've got ya covered! Ahead, we've curated the absolute best travel dresses to wear en route to your next trip.

Why dresses, you might be wondering? Even if you swear by leggings and a tee whenever it's time to face that TSA line, hear us out: A dress that's cute and comfy is the ultimate one-piece foundation for hustling from point A to point B. It'll simplify getting dressed as you wrestle to get your suitcase zipped and check in for your flight, and is so easy to throw layers on when the A/C is blasting on your seat or peel off that scarf or hoodie the second you start to overheat at any point of the journey.

Our top picks for the best travel dresses of 2022:

You deserve to look and feel good wherever you go. Now that CosmoTrips has debuted (ICYMI, it's our brilliant travel booking biz where we do the trip planning for you and you do absolutely zero work), you can keep your pre-vacay focus on those excited vibes and dressing with ease! Whether you need a perf airport look or the ultimate road trip 'fit to throw on, keep reading for 15 gorge and effortless travel dresses that'll help you do just that. And these options aren't only for getting to and from paradise: Trust us, you'll be wearing these lewks throughout your whole trip.

Pros
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (13)breezy a-line silhouette
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (14)perf for warm weather
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (15)lightweight fabric
Cons
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (16)non-stretch material

A ruffle trim, tiered skirt, square neckline, floral print—there are so many pretty details to love with this breathable smocked dress! It's got the sweetest puff sleeves to keep your arms covered during a freezing flight (you can throw on your go-to moto or shacket for extra warmth), but feeling cool enough once you land for your beach vacay.

this knit maxi

ASOS Design Curve Knit Maxi Dress

See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (17)

this knit maxi

ASOS Design Curve Knit Maxi Dress

Now 20% Off

Pros
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (18)super comfy
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (19)chic side slit detail
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (20)versatile neutral hue
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (21)matches pretty much anything
Cons
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (22)doesn't run true to size

You can never go wrong with a knit maxi—this one features a great wide-ribbed texture and a flirty low back. Pair with a bold pair of sunnies and you're instantly giving celeb street style vibes.

this chic shirt dress

Ena Pelly Bree Cotton Shirt Dress

See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (23)

this chic shirt dress

Ena Pelly Bree Cotton Shirt Dress

Pros
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (24)airy 100% cotton material
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (25)cute shirttail hem
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (26)cinched waist
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (27)perf for going straight from the office to the airport
Cons
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (28)doesn't come in other colors

Globetrotter on a mission? You'll def look the part in this peach-hued striped shirt dress. It's like wearing your partner's button-down, but way chicer. Plus, there's nothin' like cotton to keep ya cool!

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this flowy number

Amuse Society Emiko Dress

See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (29)

this flowy number

Amuse Society Emiko Dress

Pros
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (30)easy pull-on design sans zippers or buttons
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (31)cute back tie detail
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (32)wrinkle-free material
Cons
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (33)isn't available in other colors

Heading out to brunch directly from the train station? We've got the perfect 'fit: This goddess-y viscose crepe midi won't wrinkle on the ride there, and the muted neutral shade is so easy to style with basically everything in your suitcase. You'll love the saucy deep v neckline and slit, too. Throw it on and go!

this slinky stunner

ASOS DESIGN Slinky Short Sleeve Maxi Dress in Khaki

See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (34)

this slinky stunner

ASOS DESIGN Slinky Short Sleeve Maxi Dress in Khaki

Now 20% Off

Pros
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (35)true to size
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (36)ultra-soft texture
  • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (37)gorge sage hue
Cons

    Slip into this short-sleeved, ankle-skimming dress to immerse yourself in out-of-this-world softness. Sage is such a pretty color, forever and always, and we're lovin' how the subtle shine on this maxi pairs with the soothing hue. And aren't the tiny buttons such a cute touch?

    this faux-wrap mini

    BTFBM Sleeveless Tank Bodycon Dress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (38)

    this faux-wrap mini

    BTFBM Sleeveless Tank Bodycon Dress

    Now 18% Off

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (39)super affordable
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (40)comes in multiple colors
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (41)has some stretch
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (42)totally opaque fabric
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (43)some reviewers say the material is a tad thick

    Ya gotta love a T-shirt dress for total comfort and versatility; now, here's the stunning sleeveless version, perfect if you're headed somewhere with steamy weather. It's casual but super easy to dress up, and how cute is that side-tie with ruched detailing? There's so much to love about this number; just check out the 700+ rave reviews over on Amazon for proof. It's the perf piece for getting to and from your destination, as well as any day trips on the itinerary.

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    this stylish sweats alternative

    NSF Luq Hooded Zip Sweatshirt Dress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (44)

    this stylish sweats alternative

    NSF Luq Hooded Zip Sweatshirt Dress

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (45)crazy soft material
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (46)has pockets!
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (47)slouchy fit
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (48)two words: sweatshirt dress.
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (49)wish it came in black, too

    Can't give up your sweats? No prob! This hooded sweatshirt dress is the perfect 'fit to zip on and hit the road, and proof that you really don't have to sacrifice comfort to look and feel cute.

    this time-saving beaut

    Vix Paula Hermanny Naomi Dress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (50)

    this time-saving beaut

    Vix Paula Hermanny Naomi Dress

    Now 55% Off

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (51)silky feel
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (52)faux wrap skirt
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (53)bold design
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (54)style it multiple ways
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (55)watch out for nip slips

    Imagine this: your flight is delayed, but you're in no rush since you don't need an outfit change once you land—because you're already wearing this effortless number straight to that dinner party. This color-block showstopper has a flattering asymmetrical side-tie knot, flirty slit, and cool speckled print overlay. It's the definition of effortlessly chic, basically!

    this bold, bell sleeve dress

    Reb Dolls Karmia Bell Sleeve Tie Waist Mini A Line Dress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (56)

    this bold, bell sleeve dress

    Reb Dolls Karmia Bell Sleeve Tie Waist Mini A Line Dress

    Now 75% Off

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (57)bright hue
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (58)compliment magnet
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (59)soft material
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (60)a statement piece
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (61)chest pockets aren't functional
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (62)non-stretch fabric

    Need something that's not fussy and totally bold? This orange mini with billowy sleeves and an airy oversized silhouette will def turn heads. Plus, it's got pockets! You look put together without even trying.

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    this shift mini

    Love Bonito Addison Shift Dress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (63)

    this shift mini

    Love Bonito Addison Shift Dress

    Now 30% Off

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (64)functional pockets
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (65)will be your new travel go-to
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (66)comes in three other colors
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (67)only available up to XXL
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (68)can get a lil wrinkled

    We're all about ease when we're on the go, and this mod mini totally speaks to that v important factor when choosing a travel dress. The breezy shift silhouette makes it an essential transitional piece you need on every trip, since it'll look great under any jacket, pairs perfectly with sneaks or heels, and looks great with bare legs or, for chillier destinations, a pair of opaque tights. We're loving the side pockets and a v-neckline. It's equally charming in black, too!

    this linen bb

    ASOS Design Curve Linen Maxi Sundress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (69)

    this linen bb

    ASOS Design Curve Linen Maxi Sundress

    Now 25% Off

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (70)look at that slit!
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (71)non-transparent material
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (72)breathable and light
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (73)the bust area is kinda tight
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (74)weird sizing

    This scoop neck beaut is exactly what you need to be wearing when you hop off the plane and immediately mosey on over to the beach. Pair it with platform sandals and you'll absolutely slay on the boardwalk.

    this luxurious caftan

    Fe Noel Kaliah Hooded Robe

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (75)

    this luxurious caftan

    Fe Noel Kaliah Hooded Robe

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (76)an upscale lewk
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (77)reminiscent of a sunset
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (78)there's a hood!
    Cons
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (79)a lil investment

    Okay, this robe has major royalty vibes. Fe Noel's pieces serve up amazing quality and a good dose of the luxe life, and this number is no exception. Picture yourself walking onto the resort after a long drive, where you're handed a drink as you settle into your poolside cabana. I know, we're swooning, too.

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    this faux leather cutie

    Nasty Gal Button Down Pinafore Mini Dress

    See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (80)

    this faux leather cutie

    Nasty Gal Button Down Pinafore Mini Dress

    Now 77% Off

    Pros
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (81)the baddie award goes to you
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (82)sleeveless design
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (83)Loose Fit Silhouette
    • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (84)perf for transitioning seasons
    Cons

      You will look like a certified b-o-s-s in this cheeky mini. When you think of travel attire, (faux) leather probably isn't the first material that comes to mind, but this stunner will change that, stat. Style it with cool combat boots for 'fit that truly commands attention!

      this poplin number

      FARM Rio Yellow 3D Flowers Midi Dress

      See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (85)

      this poplin number

      FARM Rio Yellow 3D Flowers Midi Dress

      Pros
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (86)the cutest embellishments
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (87)a cheery hue
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (88)major day-to-night potential
      Cons
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (89)non-stretch

      We're heart eyes over this crochet floral embellishment and tier design! This lightweight dress will bring the sunshine with ya wherever you go. And get this: there's a statement bow and cutout in the back! Yeah, we can't deal either.

      this peachy pick

      Acne Studios Tie Dye Dress

      See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (90)

      this peachy pick

      Acne Studios Tie Dye Dress

      Pros
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (91)100% cotton
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (92)unique print
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (93)loose fit
      Cons
      • See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (94)unlined

      Throw this cozy number on for instant cool girl factor. The airy jersey material and roomy cut are made for in-flight naps, and how fun is that muted tie dye pattern? Also, yay for long sleeves!

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      Okay, so here's what you should consider when shopping for travel dresses:

      See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (95)

      When shopping for travel dresses, consider these helpful factors to figure out the best 'fit for any and every trip:

      • This one kinda goes without saying, but we'll say it anyway: What's the weather like wherever you're headed?
      • How long will you be traveling and what are your modes of transportation throughout the journey?
      • Will you have time for a 'fit change once you arrive? If so, how much time do you have? If not, what sort of dress (think: material, shape, and length) checks as many boxes as possible for traveling in, and once you get to your destination?

      Why trust Cosmo:

      See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (96)

      Cosmo’s team of digital fashion experts—which includes Fashion Features Director Rachel Torgerson, Fashion Editor Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien, and Contributing Fashion Features Director Alexandra Ilyashov—have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season.

      Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. These travel dresses were chosen based off of style, functionality, comfortability, price point, and so many reviews to put together this shoppable list of the very best for you!

      See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (97)

      Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien

      Fashion Editor

      Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.

      See Ya, Sweatpants: Here's Proof That You Can Totally Travel in Dresses (2024)

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