Last updated on June 7, 2026 by Eve Dawes
Bali outfit ideas are more important than most destinations because you’ll actually be dressing in several completely different environments on the same day. Knees must be covered when visiting the temple. Trekking to waterfalls means you have to think about taking a dip in the water. Comfortable shoes are required for the rice terrace walk. Dinner at a rooftop restaurant demands something completely different. And you also have to consider heat, humidity, and mosquitoes! I spent two weeks in Bali wearing everything from a Zimmerman swimsuit inside a waterfall cave to a splendid maxi dress on the UNESCO rice terraces. This is a costume idea that actually worked!
Eve Dawes is luxury travel and lifestyle editor, Revolve ambassador and founder of Glamor and Gains. She spent two weeks traveling between Bali and Lombok with her husband, visiting Ubud, the UNESCO Jatiluwi Rice Terraces, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, several waterfalls, Lombok, and the Gili Islands. All clothing recommendations are based on my personal experience wearing each item in Bali. This post contains affiliate links and giveaways. All opinions are my own.
What should you wear when going to a Balinese temple?
Sarongs and sashes are required at all temples and are included in the ticket price at most entrances. In reality, there is no need to completely cover your shoulders because the water purification cover provided by the temple does not have sleeves. All you need is a modest top that is not cut or exposed. I brought a long-sleeved t-shirt to change into, but was told that it was okay to wear a strapless dress.
One rule that isn’t often mentioned, but is consistently observed: long hair must be tied up neatly. Do not leave them loose in the temple grounds. A low bun or neat ponytail is a formal approach.
What should you wear when going to Bali waterfalls?
This is where most people get it wrong and wear slippers. Wear bug repellent, light clothing, and sturdy shoes when visiting the falls. Rocks and steps can be slippery and currents can be stronger than they look, so it’s a good idea to choose products that have good grip and dry quickly, such as water shoes. Wearing a swimsuit under the clothes you are wearing is a surefire move because you will almost certainly end up in the water. And don’t forget the towel.
I wore the Zimmermann swimsuit and the green Left on Friday and both held up beautifully at every waterfall we visited. Use a pre-swim rinse-in conditioner to protect your hair before getting in. If your hair is anything like mine, it gets tangled without the water providing any protection. This makes combing very easy.
What to wear on the rice terraces in Bali?
Comfortable sandals or flat shoes are essential as you will be walking on uneven terrain. Bright neon colors are not suitable for Ubud rice terraces, nor are colors that attract mosquitoes such as black, red, orange and turquoise (turquoise). Instead, stick to earthy tones like olive, beige, brown, rust, and cream that blend better with the natural environment.
The white also contrasts beautifully with the greens and golds of the terrace. Maxi or midi dresses made of breathable materials will keep you cool and are great for photo shoots. Bring a hat as you will be exposed to direct sunlight most of the time while walking in the Jatiluwa and Tegalalang rice terraces.
What to Wear to Bali Beach Club & Resort?
Bring at least 2-3 swimsuit options. A classic bikini is perfect for sunbathing, while a stylish one-piece provides more coverage for active water sports. Beach clubs in Bali range from casual to luxurious, so check the dress code before you arrive. A cover-up that doubles as an evening layer is worth carrying in your bag.
Balinese outfit idea of the day
These are all the Bali outfits I packed and wore, plus a few options in case mine sells out. I mainly chose long dresses for both day and night to prevent mosquito bites and to be more modest.
What to wear to dinner and out in Bali?
Smart casual goes well with Bali’s nightlife and dining. I prefer something flashy because it’s a personal aesthetic, but sundresses, linens, and sandals are perfect for most restaurants.
Check the dress code for upscale beach clubs and restaurants as more formal attire may be required. I wore this dress to dinner in Ubud and it was just right and elegant without being too flashy. But you can also keep it much more casual.
Tips on how to dress in Bali
- Always wear SPF. If you’re going to the ocean, look for reef-friendly options.
- Always wear mosquito repellent and pack it so you can keep refilling it.
- Choose a color that matches your environment.
- Flat shoes and sandals tend to work best because they have uneven surfaces and lots of steps. I’ve worn wedge heels and block heels a few times, but most of the time I’ve worn gold flats.
Bali clothing essentials
Below are the Bali travel essentials that you keep in your suitcase and never go unused.
A white or neutral-colored maxi dress in linen or cotton. Perfect for temples, rice terraces, lunch and dinner. Mine was great and ran perfectly with no wrinkles.
This is a high quality one piece swimsuit. Went away on Friday for something stylish. If you want a moment of total luxury at a waterfall or beach club, look no further than Zimmermann.
Water shoes. A visit to the falls is non-negotiable. It’s lightweight, quick-drying and worth the price.
A beach or pool cover-up is always a resort wear staple.
SPF 50 hydrating sunscreen. From the moment you leave the villa you are under direct tropical sun.
Waterproof setting spray. If you’re planning on doing makeup, especially if you’re planning on going to a waterfall or the beach, Mehron is a game changer!
Large UPF 50 sun hat.
This designer bag is perfect for travel. My Mini Dior Book Tote came to every rice terrace and temple and took pictures beautifully without being noticed.
What not to wear in Bali
The two main rules are simple: Avoid wearing beachwear anywhere except the beach, swimming pool or gym, and wear a sarong and shawl appropriately when visiting temples. Beyond that, Bali is comfortable and generous. Heavy fabrics, thick denim, anything that doesn’t breathe will make you truly miserable in the heat and humidity.
Clothes I brought but didn’t wear. A backless mini dress that was too exposed, Chanel sandals that looked too flashy, and a white t-shirt that I packed to wear to my temples but said I didn’t need it.
Bali Outfit Ideas FAQ
You must wear a sarong and obi, and your hair must be tied back. Most temples provide sarongs at the entrance, which are included in the ticket price, so there is no need to bring temple-specific clothing.
yes. White goes beautifully with rice terraces, temples and dinners. It blends in well with the lush green landscape and is suitable for everywhere.
Flat sandals or sneakers for general sightseeing, water shoes for visiting waterfalls, and smart sandals for an evening out. Heels are not practical on most of Bali’s uneven terrain.
This is only possible in temples and rural villages. Elsewhere, Western attire is perfectly acceptable. With a light cover-up in your bag, you can handle any situation that may arise.
A one-piece dress that stays in place even in strong currents. Zimmermann and Zimmermann, who set off on Friday, held up beautifully through several visits to the falls.
For more Bali travel style and luxury lifestyle content, follow Eve on Instagram @glamourandgains.
