Bye, Denim Shorts—These 31 Swimsuit Cover-Ups Are Simply Cooler
For years, denim shorts have been the default answer to the question of what to wear over a swimsuit. They're practical, easy to throw on, and likely already sitting in your closet. But after spending time scrolling through Instagram, browsing new arrivals, and observing what stylish women are actually packing for vacation, one thing has become abundantly clear: Swimsuit cover-ups have officially evolved beyond basic sarongs and oversize tees.
This season's offerings are polished enough to wear beyond the beach and cool enough to rival your favorite summer outfits. Think crochet dresses that double as dinner attire, wide-leg pants that look effortlessly elegant with a bikini top, breezy matching sets, and elevated caftans that channel the kind of ease associated with a South of France getaway.
If you're ready to retire your denim cutoffs—at least temporarily—these are the swimsuit cover-ups worth adding to your suitcase this summer.
Cover-Up Pants Are the New Beach Essential
If there's one swim trend poised to dominate this summer, it's cover-up pants. Airy, comfortable, and undeniably chic, they offer a more elevated alternative to denim shorts while still being just as easy to style.
Cover-up pants are set to have a moment this year.
A shell print worth noting.
These are giving model off duty.
Crochet Is Still Going Strong
From intricate hand-crocheted dresses to matching skirt sets, crochet continues to reign supreme in the resortwear category. The texture instantly adds interest to even the simplest swim look.
The perfect combination of summer's biggest trends—crochet and sheer.
This color combination is heavenly.
A beach party has nothing on this set.
The Vacation Dress You'll Wear on Repeat
The best cover-up dresses are the ones that seamlessly transition from beach chair to dinner reservation. These versatile styles will quickly become the hardest-working pieces in your suitcase.
The kind of dress you'll want to pack for every trip after wearing it once.
Every detail on this has me wowed.
If you like color, this one is for you.
Matching Sets Make Getting Dressed Foolproof
Coordinated cover-ups eliminate all the guesswork. Whether it's a crochet set or a swimsuit-and-cover-up duo, these pieces ensure you'll look polished with minimal effort.
I've worn the shorts in this little crochet set before and love them.
Cool-girl pants.
The little embellishments are the best part.
The Return of the Elevated Caftan
Once reserved solely for poolside lounging, today's caftans feel fashion-forward thanks to modern silhouettes, sheer fabrics, and thoughtful details that make them suitable far beyond the beach.
A little print moment goes a long way.
Styling this with pants is the ultimate power move.
If you thought caftans were just for moms, you're seriously mistaken.
More cover-ups worth packing:
Polka-dot everything.
This burgundy is a dream.
Pair this with a contrasting bikini for a good look.
The easiest thing you'll ever pack.
Gear up yet another swimsuit cover-up.
This gold fabric is quite eye-catching.
I need this in both colors.
Effortless and versatile.
Hot pants are trending this summer.
Just one button-down shirt goes a long way.
Do you fancy fringe?
You can style this on the same trip with a skirt or pants for a nice dinner.
This gives surfer vibes in the best way.
There's just something about crochet.
Throw this on on the way to the beach and then dress it up at night.
You'll see stylish women in the South of France wearing this all season long.
