Dare we declare swimsuit weather in the face of jinxing a perfectly sun-filled, 80-degree day? YEP! We’re going for it in advance of Memorial Day weekend, because we just can’t hide our excitement to dust off a beloved accessory whose very name says “vacation.” When you wear a cover-up, you’re either on the water or headed there, and it will forever prompt fond memories of pool/beach-time from the moment our teenage fashion instincts prompted the transition from wearing oversized baseball tees to more feminine attire over our swimwear.
There are many styles and ways to wear a swimsuit cover-up, and it can add so much personality to a basic bikini or one-piece. Our Nashville stylist Katey Preston has picked six of her favorite cover-ups available right now, varying in style and coverage, so that no matter what your waterside plans may be, you have options.
1. KIMONO
Easy, breezy, beautiful…kimono! We’re starting off the list with the kimono because of its effortless throw-on-and-go quality. We love the diamond pattern tie-dye of this Romi Kimono in Black/Grey by Love Stitch, and we can instantly see this over a solid white swimsuit billowing in the sea breeze.
2. TUNIC
J. Crew, we like how you think. They took the work out of styling this pullover Tie-Sleeve Beach Tunic in White for us. Because of its solid shade, it pairs well with a printed swimsuit, and a comfy slide shoe will keep up with all your beachside shenanigans. A big, floppy straw bag to top off your look is never a bad idea.
3. BEACH THROW
Never underestimate the coziness of a simple, single piece of fabric–the beach throw! The Bronwyn Beach Throw in Brown/Navy by Love Stitch works as a beach towel just as well as a wrap-around skirt or shawl. The striped pattern has a subtle nautical motif, but the fringed edge adds a bohemian flair.
4. CAFTAN
This sheer Louisa Lace Caftan in Vanilla by Love Stitch is elegant and sexy. We see this on a couple’s getaway paired with a dark solid swimsuit underneath. The all-over sheerness is balanced by the floor length, so even if you’re feeling a little exposed by the see-through lace, the top to bottom coverage gives the appearance of maxi dress.
5. DRESS
Such a flowy dream! This Seaside Cover-Up Dress in Navy by Echo could easily double as a stand-alone or a cover-up, which makes it super versatile. It will transition well from a light brunch on the café patio to lounging by the water all afternoon or strolling the boardwalk, and back to a nice dinner with espadrilles and a clutch.
6. PANTS
We’re channeling Princess Jasmine with these flattering harem-style pants with tulip hems. The Gauze Cover-Up Pants in Blue Drizzle by Chelsea28 have a drawstring waistband, making them easy to pull over your swimsuit. Shirt is optional. Wear these as you take a snuggly poolside nap or casually shopping the cute boutiques in town.
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