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Key Takeaways

  • Pack swimwear that can be layered with other pieces for easy transitions from pool to lunch to sightseeing to dinner.
  • Balance bold swim styles like satin, colorblock, or printed bikinis and one-piece swimsuits with relaxed maxi skirts, kaftans, and linen separates.
  • Choose versatile pieces like sarong skirts, longline bikini tops, and one-piece swimsuits that can be worn multiple ways for fresh outfits.

The hotel and flight tickets are booked, and your itinerary is set. Now all that’s left is to decide what to wear on the Palm Springs trip you’re counting down to. Check out our favorite desert outfit ideas that are adaptable and authentic to your style and plans.

1. Playful Bikini + Sheer Kaftan

Woman in a wave print swimwear outfit idea for a desert resort

Tucked away in the sun-bathed desert of Southern California, Palm Springs is a place that celebrates individuality and relaxed luxury. WET Swim’s wave-print bikinis feature sleek silhouettes that adjust to your figure and swirling designs that bring personality.

Style With: Let the vibrant print peek through a sheer kaftan, then add simple woven sandals and oversized sunglasses for a breezy look that can take you from pool to bar.

2. Satin Bikini + Maxi Skirt

Woman in a copper bikini at Palm Springs

If you love subtle shine, deciding what to wear to Palm Springs is easy. Grab one of our satin-finish bikinis to make your sun-kissed skin appear twice as luminous. For a balanced desert outfit idea, pair it with a maxi skirt!

Style With: Wear a classic white tiered maxi skirt with flat leather sandals and minimal gold jewelry. Add an off-shoulder, boho-style crop top for a dressier look that transitions easily from morning swims to garden and art museum strolls.

3. One-Piece Swimsuit as a Bodysuit

Woman in a black one-piece swimsuit for a desert resort

If you’re contemplating what to wear to Palm Springs for maximum versatility, WET Swim’s one-piece swimsuits are a must-have. The modern cut-outs and high-leg silhouettes make them easy to pass off as bodysuits.

Style With: Wear your one-piece with wide-leg linen pants or denim shorts, strappy sandals or sneakers, and a medium tote. Add a lightweight shirt or tunic for extra coverage during hikes or ATV rides.

4. Two-Tone Bikini + Linen Shorts

Woman in a colorblock bikini at a Palm Springs resort

Colorblock bikinis are among the easiest desert outfit ideas to try when you want a look that’s bold but refined. The contrast design allows for effortless styling with a variety of bottoms, helping you overcome so you don’t have to overthink about what to wear to Palm Springs.

Style With: Pair the bikini with cotton or linen shorts in neutral hues, a basic tank top or tee, and comfortable sandals. A lightweight sundress is an excellent option, too.

5. Longline Bikini Top + Midi Skirt

Woman in an ivory bikini and midi skirt for Palm Springs vacation

During your Palm Springs stay, you’ll indulge in many events that call for more polished looks. A longline, moderate-coverage bikini top is a handy style to pack for easy day-to-night transitions. It doubles as a going-out top and is ideal for water sports.

Style With: Pair this with a midi skirt cover-up with a satin finish, delicate jewelry, and simple slides or sandals. Switch to heels for classy evening plans.

6. Sarong Skirt That Transforms to a Top

Woman at Palm Springs in a red bikini and a sarong worn as a top

When you’re finalizing what to wear to Palm Springs, don’t forget to add a couple of WET Swim sarongs to your packing list because they’re one of the most versatile cover-ups ever.

Style With: Wear it with minimal sandals, tinted sunglasses, and light jewelry. Wear one as a skirt for poolside lounging or spa relaxation, then tie it as a halter or bandeau top paired with palazzo pants or shorts for a quick outfit refresh.

Shop WET Swim

Love these Palm Springs swimwear outfit ideas? Shop the looks at WET Swim for free U.S. shipping on $100+ orders and a complimentary laundry bag with each order!