What to Wear in Phu Quoc

What to Wear in Phu Quoc and Where to Buy It: A Realistic Clothing Guide for Travelers

You’ve landed on Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam, and realized… you packed all wrong. Or maybe you’re the smart kind who travels light, planning to grab what you need locally. Either way - good news: Phu Quoc has plenty of places to find clothes that are comfortable, casual, and totally vacation-ready.

Forget high-end fashion - this island is all about flip-flops, breezy fabrics, and outfits you can wear all day and not feel guilty tossing if they fall apart after a week in the sun.

Here’s a local-friendly guide to buying clothes in Phu Quoc - what you’ll find, where to look, and what to expect.

What's the Clothing Vibe in Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc is a tropical island with a laid-back dress code: light, breathable, comfy, and casual. You don’t need anything fancy. Most visitors are in shorts, sundresses, oversized t-shirts, and flowy pants with elephant prints.

You’ll find tons of:

  • Colorful beach dresses
  • Lightweight trousers and sarongs
  • Printed cotton t-shirts
  • Tank tops and flowy tops
  • Sun hats, flip-flops, and boho bags

💡 Is it high quality? Not really. But that’s okay. These are the kind of clothes you wear on the beach all day, then stuff into a scooter basket without a second thought.

Where to Buy Clothes in Phu Quoc

1. Local Markets (Duong Dong Market, Night Market, Dinh Cau)

If you're wondering where to shop for cheap clothes in Phu Quoc, this is your spot. The markets are lively, local, and full of surprises.

Here’s what you’ll find:

  • Sundresses, wrap skirts, tank tops
  • Lightweight beach trousers (aka "elephant pants")
  • Sarongs, hats, flip-flops
  • Basic swimsuits and beach cover-ups
  • All kinds of souvenir shirts and touristy designs

🛒 Prices are low. You can grab a full beach look for the price of a cocktail back home. Just don’t expect perfect stitching or breathable linen — but you’ll stay cool and comfy.

2. Supermarkets (Kingkong Mart, Long Beach Mart, etc.)

These are easy-to-find, air-conditioned mini-malls where you can grab:

  • Simple tops, t-shirts, shorts
  • Swimwear and casual dresses
  • Beach slippers and cover-ups
  • Even underwear and travel basics

They’re super convenient if you’re short on time or don’t want to bargain at markets. Just walk in, pick, pay, done.

3. Boutique Shops Along Tourist Streets

You’ll spot plenty of small boutiques along Tran Hung Dao Street (main tourist area). Some sell cute boho-style clothing- tunics, flowy pants, cotton shirts - and occasionally you’ll find something that looks like real linen (though probably isn't).

While some shops try to present a more curated look, it’s still all vacation-style clothing made for the beach - just a bit more aesthetic than the market options.

What to Wear for a Photoshoot in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

As a professional photographer in Phu Quoc, I get asked this a lot:

No worries at all. You can put together a great photo-ready look right here on the island:

For her:

  • Flowing white or pastel maxi dress
  • Light scarf or sarong
  • Natural accessories: straw hat, woven bag

For him:

  • White or beige linen-look shirt
  • Casual light shorts or rolled-up pants
  • Open sandals or barefoot on the beach

💡 All of this is easy to find locally - and won’t break the bank.

Should You Bring Clothes or Buy in Vietnam?

If you're very particular about fabric and fit - yes, bring your essentials.
But if you're looking for light clothing for travel in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is great for quick, affordable finds. You might not bring it home, but it’ll do the job here and now - and you’ll blend in perfectly with the island vibe.

Looking for a Photographer in Phu Quoc?

I offer relaxed, beautiful vacation photoshoots across Phu Quoc - from romantic beach sessions to playful family shoots and solo portraits.

  • I'll help you pick the right location and the right outfit. 
  • I know where the light is best and where the crowds aren’t
  • You’ll walk away with natural, fun, and frame-worthy photos

Just send me a message and let’s make it happen!

Book Photoshoot

Final Thoughts

Phu Quoc isn’t a fashion capital - and that’s exactly why it’s so charming.
Dress for comfort, embrace the colors, and let go of expectations. Whether you’re walking barefoot on the beach or riding a scooter through palm-lined roads, you’ll feel like you’re exactly where you belong.

 

So go ahead:

  • Pick up that $3 sarong
  • Wear elephant pants like you mean it
  • And don’t forget to get photos while you’re at it 😉