Nancy You don’t want to fuss over a complicated outfit. Especially when you’re headed to the beach. Between the sandy feet, salty hair and blazing sun. The last thing you want is to feel overdressed or underprepared. This is why the ultimate summer look shouldn’t just be a one-piece or a bikini. It should be the combination of swimwear and the perfect cover-up.
This duo won’t just keep you looking put-together and cute. It’s the sweet spot where comfort, confidence and effortless style meet. You could be lounging on a sunbed with a mocktail in hand. Or heading from beach to brunch. Your swimwear and cover-up convo should become your best summer style secret.
Let’s talk about how to nail the look. And make it feel like an actual outfit. Not just something thrown over your suit.
Image from: https://www.inthestyle.com/blogs/styling/stylish-cover-ups-what-to-wear-over-a-swimsuit
Image source: https://img-va.myshopline.com/image/store/1681718798653/Crochet-midaxi.jpeg?w=2692&h=4032
Why does it work every single time
Think of your swimwear as your base layer. It’s like a bodysuit but way more fun. The right cover-up will transform it into something elevated, intentional. And even Instagram worthy. It will make you look like you planned the look.
The beauty of this combo it’s the versatility. You could be at the poolside one moment, then grabbing iced lattes the next. And then even transition to dinner if you play your cards and accessories right. One great swimwear and cover-up pairing will give you multiple looks. And without the need to pack your entire closet into your beach tote.
Image from: https://lovethatboho.com/products/two-piece-beach-cover-up
The perfect pairings to try
These go-to combos are not only trending, but they’re also totally wearable. The first one is the classic triangle bikini and a sheer maxi dress. This is the ultimate model off-duty look. You can choose a string bikini in a neutral or bold color. And it will be peeking through a sheer and flowy maxi dress. It will give serious glam-without-trying vibes. Then just throw some slides and oversized sunnies.
Then we have the chic one. Which includes one-piece, linen pants and a button-down. Linen is considered a summer love language. You can pair a sleek black or white one-piece with wide-leg linen trousers. And then add a loose and unbuttoned shirt. It’s not only breezy but also sophisticated. And will look like something you would see on a yacht in the Mediterranean.
Another one is the boho combo. Which includes a bandeau top and a crochet cover-up. Crochet right now is having a serious moment. You can drape a cream or sand-toned crochet cover-up. And over a patterned bandeau bikini. Then add a straw hat and beachy waves. You’ll be channeling that sun-kissed, dreamy aesthetic.
We can also include the sporty combo. With high-waisted bikinis and oversized graphic tees. This one is perfect for the minimalist who loves a chill vibe. Knot the tee at the waist or leave it loose. Then add chunky sandals or platform slides for a street-style twist on beachwear.
And finally, the statement combo, with a kimono and cut-out swimsuit. The cutout swimsuits are always fashion-forward and bold. You can add a printed kimono. With fringe or metallic thread. You’ll be giving runway-on-the-sand energy. They are great for beach clubs, photoshoots, or just to show off your fashion flair.
Image from: https://www.blushingrosestyle.com/13-amazon-swim-coverups/
Accessorize like you mean it
Don’t underestimate the power of accessories. Especially when it comes to your swimwear and cover-up outfit. They’ll take your look from simple to styled. Add layered necklaces. Especially with deep V swimsuits or off-the-shoulder cover-ups. You can also add bucket hats and wide brims. They’re functional, stylish, and most importantly, sun-protecting.
Anklets should be considered too. They’re subtle but will make your legs look longer and more intentional. With sunglasses, oversized or 90’s 90s-inspired micro frames. And straw totes or net bags. They’re big enough for sunscreen, a book and even an emergency lip balm. But they’re still cute. Even with just adding gold hoops or a bold lip. You can completely change the vibe of your outfit. And without feeling overdressed.
Image from: https://www.next.co.uk/style/su399510/e82019
Tips for building your beachwear capsule
You want to make beach dressing a no-brainer? Then you need to focus on mix-and-matchable pieces. You should keep 2-3 swimsuits in rotation. Consider different silhouettes. Then a neutral cover-up, in white, beige or black. They’ll go with everything.
Consider adding a printed or statement cover-up for bolder days. A linen shirt that you can tie around your waist. Or wear open. Don’t forget one breezy pair of pants or shorts. And finally, some comfy but cute sandals. This capsule approach means that you can create several combos. From just these few staples. And it’s perfect for beach getaways or spontaneous summer weekends.
