Summer cover-ups for the beach and beyond
From breezy sarongs to effortless matching sets, these are the summer cover-ups to pack now
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Long beach days mean living in your favourite bikini, a floppy sun hat and oversized sunnies. The finishing touch? A chic cover-up. Practical and stylish, the right one will take you seamlessly from sandy shoreline to lunch by the pool or drinks at the bar. Designed to slip on over your swimwear, they promise just the right amount of coverage and chic protection from the sun.
Of course, you can always rely on a trusty oversized linen shirt to fling over your swimsuit, but if you’re looking to take your beachside look up a notch, there are plenty of other options to consider. From sophisticated kaftans and vibrant sarongs to cute coordinated sets and crochet dresses, there are endless ways to elevate your holiday wardrobe this season. Stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and crochet, and you’ll be good to go.
Kaftans
Elegant, chic and easy to throw over swimwear, the kaftan is a holiday staple for very good reason. Originating in Ancient Persia, before spreading across Asia and into Europe, today the design is most commonly associated with effortless beach dressing. From V-neck to button-front and tie-waist styles, minimalist to maximalist colours and patterns, it’s ideal for lounging around poolside or styling for sunset cocktails.
Sarongs
Named after the Malay word ‘sarung’, meaning ‘to cover’, the sarong is the ultimate throw-on layer that balances practicality with effortless style. Whether long, short, patterned or plain, the lightweight wrap will instantly bring a tropical edge to your beachside look while keeping you cool and covered. Perhaps one of the hardest-working items in your holiday rotation.
Sundresses
An easy breezy sundress is a fail-safe option for beach days, and can also double up for al fresco dinners and drinks too. Crochet styles are a favourite this season, while tunics will never go out of style, and sheer cottons add a playful, flirty twist. Whether you prefer a chic mini or flowing maxi, choose breathable fabrics that feel comfortable and cool, and are versatile enough to wear on and off the beach.
Matching sets
For a refined look with minimal effort, matching sets are hard to beat. Co-ordinated tops, shirts, shorts and skirts make for a polished and put-together look when worn together, while mixing and matching them with other holiday pieces creates multiple outfits from just a few pieces – genius. Versatile, easy and guaranteed to receive compliments, opt for crochet and textured fabrics for that fresh, sunshine-ready appeal.
Separates
Trousers, shorts and skirts are also a great option to throw on over swimwear à la plage. Just be sure to choose lightweight fabrics like crochet and sheer cottons to add interest to your beach aesthetic and keep you cool. Pick bold colours and playful prints to embrace the holiday mode or opt for neutral shades to achieve a slick, sophisticated and timeless look.
Read more: How to style crochet for summer
