Photo via @x_carms
As the weather continues to heat up and beach trips and tropical outings are on the horizon, there is no better time than early spring to ensure your warm weather wardrobe is in check. It’s the perfect time to start curating your summer wardrobe and ensure you’re ready for all the beach trips and tropical outings that await you. While you may have already purchased a few swimsuits, there’s another essential piece that’s just as important for your poolside look. Yes, we’re talking about cover-ups. Whether you prefer breezy kaftans, airy tunics, or sleek dresses, a stylish cover-up is a must-have item for any beach day. But we believe that beach cover-ups should be more than just a practical necessity. They should also be versatile and stylish, so you can easily transition from the beach to a sunset dinner or drinks at the bar. This season, we’re loving a range of cover-up styles, including classic linen shirts, wrap dresses and trendier options like sheer maxi dresses and crochet tops. To help you get ready for your next beach vacation or poolside hangout, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite swimsuit cover-up looks that are as practical as they are stylish.
Photo via @alexandrapereira
1) Oversized Button Up
Having a stylish and practical cover up to throw on over your swimwear is non-negotiable for any beach or pool day. And there is nothing easier than an oversized button up. Simply wear it undone as a lightweight robe over your one-piece. Or better yet, button it up and tuck it into some denim cutoffs when heading indoors. While white is always a classic, feel free to shake it up with some bright neons and saturated hues.
Photo via @dlrmk
2) Sheer Pants
As we know, the sheer look continues to be one of the most talked about trends of the season. While transparent shirts and dresses aren’t anything new, we wanted to throw sheer pants into the mix. These barely there bottoms are the perfect solution to covering up. You’ll be protected from the UV rays from head-to-toe, but the breezy fabrication ensures your outfit remains comfy and fuss-free.
Photo via @livia
3) Crochet
Summer and crochet will forever be the infallible warm weather duo. The natural, handmade aesthetic fits in with almost any swimwear style. This season, step out of the box and opt for bold crochet pieces. A pop of neon or a full on maxi skirt cover-up is a quick way to take your poolside look from drab to fab.
Photo via @sarabace
4) Knit Dresses
While most people consider knits a fall and winter staple, they happen to be just as relevant during the summer. Instead of heavy cable knits, swap them out with lighter sweater fabrications that are perfect for soaking up the sun. This influencer rocks a striped knit maxi dress. The breathable, form-fitting dress makes for an easy cover up solution that can easily go from day to night.
Photo via @aleguilmant
5) Kaftan
Looking for a way to add a splash of print into your swim outfit? Try your hand at the kaftan this summer. This printed robe-like cover up is ideal for shrugging on and off. The loose, flowy material not only makes this option comfortable, but it also is virtually effortless to pack in an already overcrowded suitcase. Additionally, the same kaftan style cover up can be adapted to your everyday attire too.
Photo via @lucywilliams02
6) Stripes on Stripes
While stripes are a timeless pattern that can be worn all year round, they have a certain charm that makes them perfect for summer. Vertical stripes, in particular, evoke a classic nautical vibe that feels right at home by the water. While incorporating a striped top into your summer wardrobe is a no-brainer, you can take things up a notch by opting for a matching striped button-up and pants combo. This effortless beach look is easy to throw on over any bikini, making it the best choice for casual days when you’re soaking up the sun.
Photo via @karinaenever
7) Jersey Maxi
If versatility is the name of the game, then look no further than a jersey maxi dress. This curve-hugging one-piece can do it all. Drape it over your bikini for one of the chicest swimsuit cover ups to date. From there, swap your flip flops for heels and you are instantly ready for a night out. Who doesn’t love a multi-functional wardrobe investment?
Photo via @yasmindevonport_
8) Nothing But Net
Similar to a crochet, netted cover ups in the form of dresses and maxi skirts are proving to be just as fashion-forward. These sheer, barely-there pieces are meant to turn heads. Consider this the ideal cover up for pool parties, boat rides, and more. Just be sure to double up on the sunscreen to avoid any unwanted tan lines.
Photo via @caroline_hu
9) Sarong
The sarong remains the ultimate champion among swimsuit cover ups. This versatile skirt offers a multitude of styling options. You can wear it conventionally, by wrapping it around your waist, but it also lends itself seamlessly to being transformed into a dress, headscarf, or even a makeshift beach towel. Printed or solid, the sarong offers endless possibilities to elevate your beach wardrobe.
Photo via @ama.peters
10) Terry Cloth
Eliminate the need for a towel with a terry cloth swimsuit cover up. This soft-to-the-touch fabric is practically made to keep you dry. While you’ll find a myriad of options, such as dresses and skirts, nothing says easy breezy more than a pair of shorts. Bonus points if you happen to style this with a matching terry cloth top.
