9 Wrinkle-resistant Dresses for Travel

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Though drop-waist elephant pants from Thailand paired with a billowy top from Bali makes for a super comfortable travel outfit — it's not exactly appropriate for every destination. Some styles are just better suited to hot, sticky days of washing elephants than they are for, say, a client meeting in London.

Dresses, however, are the ultimate do-it-all piece. You can slip on a pair of sneakers and grab your backpack for a day of exploring then swap them out for heels and a red lip to be ready for drinks that evening. Add a blazer and the look is immediately professional, whereas a denim or leather jacket slung over your shoulders is a formula for instant cool. The only downside to packing dresses is many are riddled with wrinkles after having spent some time rolled up in your suitcase.

Good news: there are flattering, smooth dresses that come out of your carry-on ready to wear. That means no packing a travel steamer or finding an iron — or jerry-rigging a steam shower in a hotel.

Here, alongside some of our own picks for best wrinkle-free travel dresses, we talked to frequent-flying women about the travel dresses they always pack.

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Fig Clothing Joe Dress

Courtesy of Zappos

For travel blogger Jessica Norah, anything from Fig Clothing — a French-Canadian company that specializes in travel-ready fabrics — is an instant “yes.” In addition to fitting easily into any backpack, roller, or bag, Norah also stresses the brand's quick-drying capabilities and the stylish, but casual flair. If you’re off to a place with plenty of sunshine, you’ll also appreciate that Fig features UV protection in its collections, too.

To buy: zappos.com, $89

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The North Face Destination Anywhere Dress

Courtesy of Zappos

When traveler Kate Hansen discovered this dress, she was hooked. In addition to its flattering fit and style, Hansen says it can work for any destination, from warm climates on its own or cooler ones over leggings. She’s also used it as a beach cover-up and a blouse tucked into pants for a sharper look. No washer where you’re headed? No problem. “You [can] wash it in the sink. It doesn’t wrinkle, dries in a snap, and rolls up into nothing,” she said. “I’ve worn it from Papua New Guinea to Italy to Malaysia. I’ve bought four!”

To buy: zappos.com, $56 (originally $70)

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Royal Robbins Spotless Traveler Dress

Courtesy of Zappos

This tie-waist tank dress is designed with a fabric that's not just wrinkle-proof, but also boasts four-way stretch, stain resistance, and UPF 50+ sun protection — everything a traveler could want in a garment.

To buy: zappos.com, $85

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Eileen Fisher Dress

Courtesy of Nordstrom

A slipdress that's breathable and lightweight works in so many scenarios — from a long day of traveling through the sticky-hot airports of Thailand to serving as a date night outfit with a belt and pair of wedges. This one's made of a Tencel lyocell blend fabric, which feels silky but is actually made from wood and is naturally wrinkle-resistant.

To buy: nordstrom.com, from $174 (originally $248)

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Athleta Sol Dress

Courtesy of Athleta

Athleta's sleek Featherweight Stretch fabric is popular in the brand's travel line thanks to its breathability and how quickly it dries.

To buy: athleta.com, $98

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Leota Perfect Faux Wrap Dress

Best Wrinkle-resistant Dresses for Travel

Courtesy of Nordstrom

This wrinkle-free dress is made of lightweight, breathable jersey that's comfy and versatile enough to be worn on the plane, for a day at the office, or out to dinner.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $148

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Everlane Tank Wrap Dress

Courtesy of Everlane

Everlane's light, wrinkle-proof Japanese GoWeave fabric turns this classic wrap dress into a vacation essential. It's available in four styles, both midi and mini, with and without sleeves.

To buy: everlane.com, $100

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Patagonia Fleetwith Drawcord Dress

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Here's a comfy, wrinkle-resistant dress that's perfect for either a day out exploring the city or a night in at the Airbnb.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $75

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Unbranded Long-sleeve T-shirt Dress

Courtesy of Amazon

A super-comfy dress that's perfect for the minimalist, this one is made of soft jersey knit that's great at resisting wrinkles.

To buy: amazon.com, from $14

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9 Wrinkle-resistant Dresses You Can Wear Right Out of Your Suitcase