Sponsored by Zappos & ShopStyle Collective
You guys, I found them. The long, flowy, colorful, Instagram-worthy (or, heck – TikTok worthy) dresses that take your pictures to the next level. The ones that just scream vacation. The dresses that stop you in your tracks when you see them – whether in real life or in photos. And because I’m me, and, hey – real life – my criteria was Instagram-worthy dresses that aren’t overly fussy. I still need to be able to run around with the kiddos, photoshoot or not. So the dresses I found are not only beautiful and show-stopping…but they’re also lightweight, comfortable and SO much fun to wear. Even better? The price point is great. Both of the dresses I found are right around $100.
dress (OS) | sandals | similar hat | similar sunglasses
I knew I wanted a long dress in a bright color (not black!) that was casual and could be dressed up or down. I had a picture in my mind, but hadn’t yet found the one. So using the epic search function on Zappos, I chose a few colors (blue, green, orange, red), specified length (long), sleeve type (sleeveless), and occasion (casual) and boom: there they were.
I love perusing Zappos’ website because they have so much to choose from. They’re obviously a go-to for all things shoes, but they’re also one of the first places I go when I’m looking for something unique – like a specific kind of dress. Their search function is insanely helpful in narrowing down exactly what you’re looking for. So even though they have a ton of inventory to choose from, they also make it really easy to find a particular look. (Like the vacation dress of my dreams.) Plus, when you’re a Zappos VIP member, you’ll get free expedited shipping—which means the dress of your dreams will arrive before you take off on your adventure (P.S, it’s free to sign up!)
Pack This On Vacation: Instagram-Worthy Maxi Dresses For Your Next Photoshoot
Once I had narrowed down Zappos’ search to create a virtual treasure trove of flowy maxi dresses (in beautiful bright colors – even ombre – and fun patterns, naturally), then I got to choose. (And I didn’t even use half of the search categories to find them – there’s a LOT more options to further narrow things down.) Here’s what I picked:
1. The Off-The-Shoulder, Polka-Dot Maxi Dress (With Slits)
dress (OS) | similar hat | similar sunglasses
This dress comes in just one size which, originally, made me nervous, but it was perfect when I tried it. My chest is bigger than the model’s on the site, so I just wore the straps on top of my shoulders instead of off for a little extra support (check out the pics of the model to see them worn off-shoulder). I’m not wearing a bra in these pictures, but I could have added one for even more support (and it would’ve allowed me to wear the straps off-the-shoulder).
The top stretches to fit, and I like that it totally covers my chest without spillage.
dress (OS) | sandals | similar hat | similar sunglasses
The bottom of this maxi dress is long and flowy, and has two slits on the sides for ease of movement. The lightweight material keeps me cool, and I love that it’s not tight and doesn’t stick to my body. The fabric flows in the breeze, but it’s long enough that it doesn’t flash the, uh, parts I want to keep hidden. 😂
This dress would be great as a cover up, but works just as easily for dinner and drinks.
dress (OS) | sandals | similar hat | similar sunglasses
2. The Low Back, Halter Maxi Dress (In Ombre Pink)
dress (m/l) | sandals | similar hat
I adore the bold color of this dress (it also comes in a pretty turquoise blue or a light purple pattern), and the back is beautiful. I love the low plunge and the deep-v neckline. The straps make it easy to adjust for different body types. I love the movement on this one and the slit in front makes it easy to walk in. (Plus it adds a little sexy vibe with a peek of leg.)
My photographer mentioned that this was the exact kind of dress she recommends her clients wear for special photo shoots (like engagement or maternity pictures). Dresses like these make it easy to get gorgeous photos (and there’s definitely room for a belly), so if you have a special shoot coming up…this dress!
Aside from photoshoots, this is a perfect vacation dress to throw on over a swim suit at a resort or pool. It’s just a stunning dress, and is so much fun to wear.
dress | sandals | similar hat
*Just a little note about the fabric on this one: while you can’t tell in the photos, it’s a little sheer in person – definitely not see-through, but I wouldn’t wear colorful undies underneath.
Shop My Edit of Instagram-Worthy Vacation Dresses at Zappos
XOXO,
Scotti
Photos: Terah Hoobler
A huge thank you to Zappos & ShopStyle Collective for sponsoring this post! Zappos has such a huge selection of vacation-ready dresses with the perfect accessories to go with them – as always, all product choices and opinions are my own. Terah, thank you for the photos – great working with you! And readers, thank you for your support. It’s so very much appreciated!
