There’s a reason Miami is called the Magic City. From its beautiful beaches and charming waterfront cafés, to its high-tempo nightlife and incredible club scene, the 305 is your gateway to paradise. But whether you’re flying in or taking the Brightline, what do you pack for Miami?
Essentially, you need three kinds of outfits: Beachwear, daywear, and nightwear. Miami has a unique vibe, and to take full advantage of your south Florida vacation, you need to wear the right outfits! Especially if you’re planning on going out at night.
Miami’s clubs are serious about their dress codes, and while they’re usually stricter for guys than girls, there are some places where you’ll get turned away if you’re in flats. Seriously! So when you’re packing for Miami, think baddie, think bougie. Think fancy– and think about checking out the dress code before you get in line. Actually, don’t think about that one. Just do it. Trust me.
Statement Swimwear
Even during the day, people dress to be seen, and this is especially true at the beach. Miami’s world-famous South Beach might be its best-known beach, but its other beaches and waterfront districts are just as glamorous. Even family-friendly North Beach is still a high-energy spot, and if you’re lucky enough to stay near Surfside or Bal Harbour, you’ll want suits that make a statement. Look for silhouettes in bold colors– red, hot pink, and aqua are perennial favorites, and a crisp white suit is always in style.
Linen
Miami is hot and humid year-round; even in the dead of winter, the average daytime temperature is in the 70s. While the gulf breezes help it cool off at night (just as the evening heats up), what do you wear during the day if you’re not at the beach? Linen. As Reddit users point out, natural fibers are the answer. For your daytime activities, a cute linen dress is all you need to feel cool and comfy while still looking right at home.
Bright Colors
Wondering what to wear in Miami, color-wise? The answer is all of them! From megaclubs like LIV to more relaxed, artsy spaces in Wynnwood, bright, summery colors are in year-round. Miami is the perfect place to wear neons and bright, electric colors that might not be the norm in your hometown; like the tropical birds and exotic flowers that call the city home, you’re meant to stand out here–not blend in. Miami fashion is all about bold choices, confident styling, and turning every sidewalk into a runway.
Bodycon
It’s hot girl summer year-round in Miami; skin is in, and fashion is all about flash and confidence. Bodycon dresses are a great choice for nights out, especially when paired with strappy heels and statement accessories. Don’t be afraid to go bold; this is a city where sparkle, cutouts, and daring silhouettes are right at home.
Minidresses and Miniskirts
You know what’s higher than the temperatures in Miami? The hemlines! Take advantage of the warm weather and vibrant party scene and break out your favorite short skirts. Mini skirts and crop tops, sexy short dresses, and breezy two-piece sets are practically the Miami uniform. Whether you’re headed to a beach bar or a rooftop lounge, playful and flirty pieces always fit the vibe.
Inspiration for Miami Outfits
Still wondering about what clothes to wear in Miami? Let these picks help you pack your bag!
Aqua Halter Midi Dress + Gold Accessories
Bright aqua and dazzling gold combine for an unbeatable outfit, and the open back and slit skirt are perfect for a hot night on the dance floor.
Red Floral Mini Shift Dress
This mini dress pairs perfectly with comfy sandals for a stroll down Calle Ocho with a cafecito–and then you can throw on a pair of strappy heels for bar hopping at night!
White Satin Sash Dress + Silver Heels
White and silver are a classic combo, and the extra shine from satin elevates this outfit to the next level. The fun sash detail is the perfect finishing touch, adding movement and a little drama with every step.
Multicolored Satin Floral Dress + Block Heels
Miami is home to over 150 parks, but you’ll be the brightest flower of them all in a vibrant satin floral dress! Block heels are a good choice if you’re hitting any of the big clubs, since they often have a line to get in, and the wider heel base is more supportive than a stiletto– but this pretty print would be right at home in some of the quieter, more intimate spaces, too!
Orange Ruched Dress + Statement Heels
I love how comfy and supportive a ruched dress is, and you’ll love how sweet the soft watercolor-esque abstract print looks at a beachside bar. The cherry on top is actually on the bottom–a bold pair of strappy heels in a color that demands attention from everyone.
Hot Pink Satin Dress + Metallic Accessories
Move over, Malibu! Barbiecore is alive and well in Miami, thanks to the city’s immaculate tropical vibes and love of all things bright. Add even more glam to a hot pink maxi dress outfit with metallic accessories, including your purse and shoes.
Pink Watercolor Floral Dress + White Heeled Sandals
The nightlife in South Beach is about as wild as it comes, but if you’re planning to party in Miami’s upscale Brickell district or at one of the high-end resort nightclubs, it’s worth it to bring an outfit that’s extra-sophisticated. Dainty white kitten heels and matching white jewelry worn with a bright pastel dress are a playful take on Miami’s fashion history and architectural trends that will let you fit right in.
Orange Strapless Midi Dress + Nude Heels
Miami is known for its salsa clubs, so if you’re planning on trying this fast, flirty dance style, you need an outfit that can keep up! The fluttery hemline of this dress will flitter playfully as you twirl, and the block heels make it a little easier to learn new steps.
Ivory One-Shoulder Dress + Statement Earrings
Sometimes the most fun way to make a statement is to let your jewelry do the talking! Pairing a sleek, elegant dress with minimalist lines with over-the-top chunky jewelry creates a bold contrast that feels both edgy and intentional. Big hoops are a Miami-outfit classic, and you can’t go wrong with mixed metals or rhinestones!
What will you pack for the Sunshine State? Show us on Instagram or TikTok @Lulus using #Lulus, and check out our Summer Shop and Miami Dresses edit for more Miami-appropriate picks!
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