There’s nothing more fun than a day in the sun that turns into a sweet and romantic date night on the boardwalk. Still, it isn’t always fun being forced to figure out how to plan a cute summer outfit around your bathing suit. Thankfully, all it takes is a teeny bit of creative layering to put together looks that are both fashionable and functional.
From casual dresses to cute tunic tops, here’s what to wear over a swimsuit.
Trusty Tunics
Tunic tops offer just the right amount of coverage to turn a swimsuit that’s on the skimpier side into an everyday outfit. Long sleeve options are especially helpful if you’re sensitive to the sun or plan to be out until it gets chilly at night. Just stick to lighter colors so that you stay seasonally appropriate. Style yours with a wide brim hat and sandals for a look that shows off your legs.
High Waisted Shorts
High waisted shorts are a great way to add an extra layer to your outfit without layering on too much heat. On an especially toasty day, all you really need is a little extra coverage on your bum to go from poolside to the park benches for ice cream. If you’re wearing a one-piece swimsuit, a pair of shorts makes for an instant outfit that you can likely even wear indoors.
- White shorts can effortlessly brighten up an outfit and help to keep you cool on super hot days.
- Prints and patterns add some pizzazz to an otherwise understated swimsuit.
Oversized Sweaters
One of the most underrated beach cover-ups is a classic, oversized sweater. Cute sweaters are not only super simple and cozy but they are also incredibly versatile as you can incorporate them into your wardrobe year-round. There’s something that’s just so effortlessly chic about this timeless fashion staple.
- Take it from poolside to the backyard barbeque by tucking it into a pair of high-waisted jean shorts.
- A knit sweater layered over your favorite swimsuit is super chic and the breeze keeps you cool when the temps start to rise.
- Style it as a sweater dress - just finish the look with a straw hat, square toe sandals and a clutch.
Sassy Sarongs
What’s summer without a sarong? This trusty piece of sheer fabric is a fashion must-have to complete your cute swimsuits. Experiment by tying your sarong in a bunch of different creative ways, from a halter dress to a skirt, to a romper, to a maxi skirt. You can really get creative and end up with a completely new outfit every single time! Printed sarongs go particularly well with solid color swimsuits, tying the whole look together.
Kimono Cover Ups
Inspired by the Japanese kimono rope, this silky style of beach cover-up is super chic and kind of like the sarong’s extra classy cousin. The kimono cover-up is universally flattering, especially when tied around the waist. It also adds a sophisticated touch to any summer swimsuit. Their sheer fabric makes them perfect for beach days, but they also look great layered over a tank top and jeans.
Summer Dresses
Summer dresses make for the perfect swimsuit cover-ups. If you wear one to the store, people might not even realize you came straight from the beach! The key to making this fashion staple work is to choose lightweight, durable fabrics that won’t be ruined by the sand, salt and sun.
- A cotton t-shirt dress is a comfortable and trendy choice to wear over a swimsuit.
- Dresses with significant detailing, like beading or embroidery, might be difficult to repurpose as cover-ups.
Nothing at All
There’s nothing better than having some fun in the sun, especially after a cold winter and spring spent at home. If you’re only heading from the car to the shore and want to flaunt that beach body a little extra this summer, why not rock that stylish swimsuit in all its glory?
While there are so many fun ideas for what to wear over your cute swimsuits, you can always opt-out of extra layers. As long as you’re not heading to a restaurant afterward, simply take your towel and your beach bag with you -- and enjoy a lovely, sunny day at the beach!
