Taking a tropical vacation can be an exciting and relaxing experience. However, finding the right clothing can be challenging for plus size women. The heat and humidity of tropical climates means you'll want breathable, lightweight fabrics that keep you cool and comfortable. With some strategic packing and shopping, you can put together a great plus size tropical vacation wardrobe.
Key Considerations for Plus Size Tropical Clothing
When choosing plus size clothing for your tropical getaway, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Fabric
Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, rayon, or linen blends. These will be cooler against your skin than synthetics. Be sure to pack some fast-drying fabrics as well for activities like swimming or rafting.
Coverage
You'll want breathable coverage to protect against sun exposure. Look for loose, flowy styles and lightweight layers. Maxi dresses and sarongs are great options. Don't forget a hat and UV protective swimwear too.
Comfort
Comfort is key! Look for relaxed fits, elastic waists, and adjustable straps and ties. Prioritize clothing that moves with you and makes you feel confident.
Style
Just because it's a tropical locale doesn't mean you can't look stylish! Seek out chic prints, pretty patterns, and flattering tropical-inspired styles. You can look and feel amazing.
Shoes
Bring supportive sandals and water shoes designed for comfort and traction on slippery surfaces. Flip flops can be problematic for long distances or uneven terrain.
Great Plus Size Tropical Clothing Options
Here are some of the best plus size clothing items and styles for tropical vacations:
Flowy Maxi Dresses
A breezy maxi dress is perfect for warm weather. Look for lightweight, printed dresses with relaxed silhouettes. Cotton, rayon, or linen will be comfortable and easy to wash. Maxi dresses easily go from day to night too.
Swimwear
Don't forget the swimwear! Look for supportive plus size swimsuits with tummy control panels, underwire tops, and adjustable straps. Rash guards and swim skirts provide extra sun coverage. Tankinis give you more options for flattering fits too.
Light Cardigans & Kimonos
Pack a few lightweight cover-ups like short kimonos, crochet dusters, or cardigans. You can layer these over dresses or swimwear for a little more coverage and to stay comfortable in heavily air-conditioned spaces.
Breathable Tunics & Beach Kaftans
Tunics and kaftans in breezy woven fabrics are perfect beach and poolside options. Look for loose, flowy shapes with fun prints, embroidery or colorblocking. The longer lengths provide ample coverage from the sun.
Linen Pants & Shorts
Linen and linen-blend pants and shorts will keep you cool and comfortable. Elastic waistbands and adjustable drawstrings allow for flexible fit. Light colors also deflect heat better.
Plus Size Sarongs
Sarongs are extremely versatile on a tropical vacation. They can be worn as skirts, dresses, beach cover-ups, shawls and more. Light, printed styles are widely available.
Sun Hats & Accessories
Don't forget sun hats and protective accessories like scarves and cover-ups. Big brims, visors, lightweight straw hats, and wraps all provide coverage from the intense sun. Sunglasses are a must too!
Plus Size Tropical Vacation Outfit Ideas
Here are some full outfit examples to inspire your plus size tropical vacation wardrobe:
Beach Day Outfit
- Swim dress or tankini
- Sarong skirt
- Wide brim sun hat
- Water shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses
- Light cardigan or kimono
Jungle Trek Outfit
- Lightweight linen or cotton pants
- Breathable tank
- Lightweight cropped cardigan
- Hiking sandals
- Sun hat
- Small backpack
Dinner Outfit
- Breezy patterned maxi dress
- Flat sandals
- Scarf or shawl
- Crossbody clutch
- Statement earrings
- Flower in hair
Evening Outfit
- Flowy palazzo pants
- Lace trim camisole
- Kimono style cardigan
- Wedge sandals
- Bohemian style jewelry
Plus Size Tropical Vacation Shopping Tips
- Shop sales at major retailers for vacation styles in extended sizes. Lots of flowy dresses, tunics, swimwear, and cover-ups can be found affordably at stores like Target, Old Navy, and Kohl's.
- Check department store websites like Macy's and Nordstrom for designer plus size options. You can often find great end-of-season sales on tropical and vacation wear.
- Look at online specialty retailers like Swimsuitsforall, Modcloth, and Eloquii for extended size swimwear, dresses, jumpsuits, and separates.
- Don't forget Amazon and Walmart for very affordable, solid quality basics you can mix and match. Great for tees, tanks, shorts, swimwear, sandals.
- If visiting an all-inclusive resort, call ahead about plus size clothing available in on-site shops. Many have on-trend selections you won't find at home.
- Scope out local boutiques at your destination for unique fashions and locally made pieces like sarongs, tunics or jewelry.
5 FAQs
1. What fabrics are best for plus size tropical clothing?
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, rayon, or linen work best. Look for natural fabrics that allow airflow against your skin.
2. What is the most versatile item to pack for a plus size tropical vacation?
Sarongs are extremely versatile. They can be styled into skirts, dresses, swim cover-ups, and shawls. Easy to wash and quick drying too.
3. Are maxi dresses practical for tropical vacations?
Yes! Maxi dresses allow air to circulate and provide sun coverage. Look for lightweight knits or woven fabrics. Great for both daytime and evening wear.
4. What kind of plus size swimwear works best?
Look for supportive features like tummy control panels, underwire tops, and adjustable straps. Tankinis allow you to mix-and-match for better fit. Rash guards also provide extra sun coverage.
5. Should I wait and buy tropical clothing at my destination?
It's fine to shop at your destination for some items, but have key pieces (swimwear, shoes, etc.) at the ready. Local boutiques can have pricier or limited plus size selections.
Conclusion
With proper fabrics, breathable coverage, and styles suited for warm weather, plus size women can look and feel amazing on a tropical getaway. Focus on comfort, sun protection, and flattering silhouettes. Shop sales in advance, but leave room in your suitcase to take advantage of local tropical fashion as well. The most important thing is to relax and enjoy your tropical paradise in clothing that makes you comfortable and confident.
