Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise or simply dreaming of warmer days, The White Lotus Season Three offers a treasure trove of holiday wardrobe inspiration. Set against the lush backdrop of Thailand, the latest installment of this TV phenomenon delivers not only gripping drama but also a masterclass in luxury resort wear. From sun-drenched beaches to candlelit dinners, the show’s costume design team has once again captured the essence of vacation dressing—effortless, indulgent, and brimming with personality.
The White Lotus Effect: A Celebration of Holiday Dressing
What makes The White Lotus such a sartorial standout is its ability to evoke the sheer joy of wearing your holiday best. While we may not all have access to Jennifer Coolidge’s Dolce & Gabbana-clad glamour, the show’s curated wardrobe moments—think JW Anderson beach bags, Rachel Comey sundresses, and Alémais’s starfish-adorned jumpsuits—offer plenty of aspirational yet wearable ideas.
Camilla, the Australian resort-wear brand that has become a staple of the series, has even collaborated with the show on a collection inspired by the opening credits’ artwork. As designer Camilla Franks puts it, “Fashion and travel are a truly magical combination.” This sentiment is woven into every frame of The White Lotus, where each outfit tells a story of escapism and indulgence.
The Essentials: Building a Versatile Holiday Wardrobe
When it comes to real-world holiday dressing, versatility is key. Adam Brown, founder of Orlebar Brown, emphasizes the importance of transitional pieces. “Focus on items that can take you from the beach to dinner with ease,” he advises. “Lightweight linen, a printed shirt, and a smart pair of sandals are must-haves.”
However, Brown also encourages holiday-goers to embrace the fun of dressing up. “While staples like plain linen shorts and shirts are essential, don’t shy away from bold prints and bright colors. I predict a resurgence of 1970s themes in 2025—think geometric patterns, fun florals, and vibrant hues.”
Practical Elegance: Dressing for Hot and Humid Climates
Dressing for tropical destinations requires a balance of style and practicality. Molly Russell, founder of Pink City Prints, shares her expertise: “Cotton is your best friend in hot, humid weather. It’s breathable, lightweight, and perfect for layering. Prints are also a great way to add personality to your wardrobe while staying cool.”
Russell, who spends five months a year in India, highlights the importance of respecting local customs while staying comfortable. “Long skirts are my go-to—they’re breezy, elegant, and culturally appropriate. Holidays are the perfect opportunity to experiment with dopamine dressing. Embrace bold colors and let your outfit reflect the joy of your surroundings.”
Key Pieces to Pack: A White Lotus-Inspired Edit
- The Statement Jumpsuit
Take cues from the Alémais cutaway jumpsuit featured in the show. Opt for a lightweight, printed design that transitions effortlessly from day to night. Bonus points for playful details like starfish charms or embroidery. - The Printed Sundress
A Rachel Comey-esque sundress is a holiday staple. Look for flowing silhouettes, vibrant prints, and breathable fabrics that keep you cool while exuding effortless elegance. - The Versatile Shirt
A printed or linen shirt is a workhorse in any holiday wardrobe. Wear it over swimwear, paired with shorts for a casual lunch, or dressed up with tailored trousers for evening. - The Beach Bag
Channel JW Anderson with a stylish yet functional beach bag. Choose a design that’s roomy enough for your essentials but chic enough to double as a day-to-evening accessory. - The Long Skirt
As Molly Russell suggests, a long, flowing skirt is both practical and stylish. Opt for bold prints or vibrant colors to make a statement while staying comfortable. - The Smart Sandals
Adam Brown’s recommendation for a pair of smart sandals is spot on. Look for designs that are comfortable enough for walking but polished enough for dinner. - The Bold Accessory
Whether it’s a statement hat, oversized sunglasses, or a chunky necklace, accessories are the finishing touch that elevate your holiday look.
The Joy of Dopamine Dressing
Holidays are the ultimate excuse to embrace dopamine dressing—a trend celebrating bold colors, playful prints, and unapologetic self-expression. As The White Lotus demonstrates, there’s something inherently joyful about dressing for a destination. The bright sunlight, the vibrant surroundings, and the sense of escapism all come together to create the perfect backdrop for sartorial experimentation.
So, whether you’re packing for a tropical getaway or simply dreaming of one, let The White Lotus Season Three be your guide. Embrace the bold, the bright, and the beautiful, and let your holiday wardrobe reflect the carefree, indulgent spirit of vacation dressing. After all, as Camilla Franks so aptly puts it, “Fashion and travel are a truly magical combination.”
the carefree, indulgent spirit of vacation dressing. After all, as Camilla Franks so aptly puts it, “Fashion and travel are a truly magical combination.”
