This Stylish Clothing Item Is A No-Brainer To Beat The Heat (And Wind) In Greece

When visiting Greece, it's easy to see that the sweltering sun can be quite a challenge, especially during the summer months. But that's not all — the wind also tends to be unexpectedly strong, such as the meltemi, which commonly blows across the Aegean Sea, and affects destinations like the photogenic island of Santorini or Mykonos. At one point, you might be strolling confidently in your short sundress; at another point, you could be holding it tightly like all your dignity depends on it. For this reason, a maxi dress is an absolute no-brainer if you wish to overcome not just the Mediterranean heat but also those gusts of wind that come blowing without warning.

Maxi dresses can be both stylish and practical, as they stay on your body beautifully, without sacrificing comfort. During breezy periods, maxi dresses are long enough to remain in place, yet when the weather blazes too, they're airy enough to keep you cool. Styles made from lightweight cotton or linen let your skin breathe even better, while equally protecting your legs from sunburn. Plus, they're easy to pack and roll up relatively smoothly in your suitcase, especially when made of crumple-resistant materials. It's no wonder that maxi dresses are a go-to fashion staple among savvy travelers who know how to balance comfort and style.

Greece is a popular country that's full of interesting sites that can be easily explored on foot — from cobblestone streets (like Corfu's Old Town), to sun-bathed landscapes, to steep ruins. Are you planning a tour of the Acropolis in Athens, climbing up the monasteries of Meteora, or do you want to hike through the ruins of Delphi? You'll certainly want clothing that not only covers your body, but also keeps you cool and relaxed. With a maxi dress, you get the needed airflow while also being well-covered for sites like monasteries or traditional towns where it's disrespectful to expose your knees or shoulders. Choosing a dress with thicker straps or cap sleeves would be a great choice if you intend to visit religious sites.

No doubt, maxi dresses stand out for their versatility — they transition smoothly between day and night, across seasons, and can be styled based on different occasions. All you sometimes need to do is swap sneakers or sandals for wedges or add simple jewelry, like necklaces and stud earrings, depending on your goal. Did you just say maxi dresses are timeless? You can say that again. In warmer months, you're good to go; in colder months, just layer your maxi dress with a cardigan or denim jacket. And for added protection against sudden gusts, specifically, it's advisable to pair your dress with biker shorts or lightweight underlayers.

Just as you might want to know the best time to visit Greece for the perfect weather, timing matters too when deciding the right items to bring in addition to your maxi dress. In Greece, temperatures can reach about 91 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer, especially inland. The northern winds, known as meltemi, may bring relief to the islands, but they can also be intense and unpredictable. In any case, maxi dresses — which are typically flowy, breathable, and lightweight — remain essential. For a perfect combo together with your maxi dress, pack along a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, UV-blocking sunglasses, and shoes or sandals with good grip for comfort and safety, especially in uneven terrain.

If you plan to visit multiple islands, it's generally wise to stick to neutral colors — like beige or dusty rose. Whether it's Greece's whitewashed architecture or its wind-carved coastlines you're checking out, the neutral colors can blend and fit well. Finally, consider using packing cubes to avoid creasing, or simply choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics like polyester, especially those blended with cotton or linen for added breathability. It's also good to come with a light scarf or soft wrap — often useful for chilly ferry rides or evening breezes.