Beach Days Are My Runway With These Fashion-Forward Cover-Ups
One moment you're lounging by the pool at a resort, the next you're taking a stroll to find the perfect place for an al fresco lunch. The only thing stopping you from effortlessly going from the water to hitting the pavement is a great swimsuit cover-up. These throw-on-and-go wardrobe staples are the unsung heroes of summer. Unlike most fashion finds, they need to be able to do double the work: providing a bit of coverage without ruining the overall look of that really cute swimsuit you spent so much time tracking down.
Picture yourself going from a seaside swim to sightseeing on the sidewalks during your Euro summer vacay in an Anemos striped mini shirtdress that's cute enough to wear on its own or paired with breezy trousers. Or imagine going from the beach to grabbing gelato in a floral Agua by Agua Bendita sarong. No matter what you're looking for, there are so many chic options to shop. Here, you'll find only the very best styles to turn your beach or poolside looks into chic ensembles. Keep scrolling for all the editor-approved finds.
Invest in one of the sweetest prints (and colors) of the season with this pink gingham skirt. It's cute enough to wear on its own with a one-piece swimsuit or the adorable matching bikini.
Sizes: XS-L
Colors: Pink
Materials: 80% nylon, 20% elastane
There aren't too many things more stylish than a great striped shirt, especially if you're leaning into the nautical movement. Keep it simple and go sans pants or button it up over your favorite pair of jeans for a Parisian-chic look.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Azure Stripe, Natural Stripe
Materials: Italian stretch twill
More often than not, less is more. An undeniably chic black or white sarong will come in handy on any jaunt to the beach. Lucky you, these two styles come as a set, so you get more for a fraction of the price.
Sizes: One Size
Colors: 28 options
Customer review: 'I've had this sarong in both black and baby blue for two summers now, and I still love them. They're lightweight, sheer in a flattering way, and add just the right touch of coverage for pool or beach days. The fabric has held up really well—no snags, no fading. Super easy to tie and toss in a beach bag. Stylish and practical—definitely a go-to swim cover-up for me.'
For a complete ensemble that's worthy of taking up space in your carry-on, count on the crochet dress. This one earns bonus points with its fringe details and cutout silhouette.
Colors: Cream
Materials: 65% polyester, 35% cotton
If you're a fan of Totome's pajama-inspired sets, there's a pareo that you can bring with you on your next visit to the pool.
Sizes: One size
Colors: Brick
Materials: 80% organic cotton, 20% silk
One of the best parts of summer dressing is having fun with all the different styles of shorts. This pair makes the perfect swimsuit cover-up, thanks to large eyelets and an adjustable drawstring. Pair it with the matching top to complete your look.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Cornflower Blue
Materials: 100% cotton
Every resort wardrobe needs a tunic. Of course, Tory Burch makes one of the chicest designs, accented with a fringe hemline.
Colors: Vintage Champagne
Customer review: 'I loved this dress the moment I saw it online. Did I need another caftan? Thought about it for a minute and decided... yes, I do. It is lovely; the fabric is light and sheer, and the fringe is so fun, kind of a hemp. I bought a cream-colored slip (Commando) to wear underneath because I intend to wear it as a fun party dress. Love. It!'
The timeless sarong gets a playful update with this prismatic knit print. Looking for something else in the same silhouette? This one comes in a host of different patterns to test.
Colors: 44 options
Customer review: 'Love this cover-up so much! I love the colors and the pattern and the coverage is perfect. I thought it would be itchy but it is so comfy.'
Look for craft-inspired pieces like this cool crochet shirt to make going from the beach to somewhere else a cinch.
Colors: Tawny Brown
Lean into the charm of a feminine, floral frock with help from Agua by Agua Bendita. While you're at it, grab one of the brand's equally cute swimsuits to complete your ensemble.
Colors: Ceiba
Here's a black crochet cover-up that plays with proportions, offering a high-low silhouette that whispers chic.
Colors: Black, Beige, White
Customer review: 'This is the cutest thing I have ever bought from Amazon. It's one size and fits my 38D chest. I'm 5'4' and 150 pounds and it fits great—not baggy or tight. It goes with everything. I can't wait to wear it.'
Tailored shirting is the easiest way to look polished at the pool. This option earns bonus points for its soft, fluid fabric and tie detail.
Colors: Light Coffee, Black
Materials: 100% polyester
The functionality of a towel meets the chicness of a dress in this standout design from Zimmermann. Add it to your summer wardrobe and prepare for the compliments to roll in.
Sizes: 4-12
Colors: Black/Cream
Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.
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