Heading to the pool, beach, park, or even your balcony sometime soon? While you've likely got a cool swimsuit situation figured out, there's one more piece of the puzzle to nail a complete swimwear look: a bathing suit cover-up. In the past, you might not have put too much thought into what you've thrown on over your swimsuit, but all it takes is a bit of inspiration to help you pick out the perfect cover-up for your look.
Bathing suit season doesn't necessarily require breaking the bank, either. If you take a closer look at some of your summer staples, you'll realize that the cool bathing suit cover-ups you're searching for might be sitting right in your closet. Keep reading for 14 staples you probably already own and how you can incorporate them into some pretty amazing poolside ensembles. Of course, if you're still inclined to shop while you're at it, we've got you covered there, too.
1. Anything Crochet
Crochet is synonymous with summer, so really any open-weave piece will work.
2. Shirtdress
Wear your shirtdress partially unbuttoned for an easy cover-up that goes from day to night, too.
3. Large Scarf
A large scarf can double as a stylish (and classic) pareo. The version above serves as the perfect example of how it should be tied.
4. Relaxed Shorts
What better place to wear your favorite loose-fitting, optionally whimsical shorts than under the sun? Don't be afraid to mix and match the print with your bikini.
5. Drawstring Pants
Drawstring or tie-waist pants are a perfectly easy, breezy option for a stylish, resort-inspired look.
6. Zip-Up Sweatshirt
Going out for an early morning surf or sunset swim? Throw a hoodie over your bathing suit for a laid-back look.
7. Kimono
A kimono works perfectly as a cover-up because it's inherently lightweight and doesn't have any buttons to fuss with.
8. Denim Shorts
High-waisted denim shorts are great for wearing as a cover-up. Plus, if you add a T-shirt and sandals, you can go beyond the beach and not look half-dressed.
9. Midi Skirt
Midi skirts—especially less fitted styles—make great beach cover-ups that you can easily slip on and off.
10. Button-Down Shirt
Whether you opt for a classic style or trendier iteration, a breezy, button-down shirt that's easy to put on and take off will serve you so well this summer.
11. Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits, rompers, and overalls are inherently on the more casual side. Plus, since they serve as a top and bottom, that's one less piece of clothing you have a chance of accidentally leaving behind at the pool.
12. Cardigan
I can't be the only one who's accumulated more of these than they'd like to admit over the past year. The good news is they're not just for wearing with jeans—they look very cool over a swimsuit.
13. Strapless Dress
A strapless dress won't weigh you down in the heat and will look summer-appropriate. Word to the wise: Be sure to pick low-maintenance fabrics such as jersey or cotton.
14. Tunic
A tunic goes great with denim shorts, or if it's long enough, feel free to wear it as a dress.
Up next, summer's biggest swimwear trends on a budget.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has been recently updated.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New YorkPared back yet never boring.
