What to Wear Over a Swimsuit: 15 Stylish Ideas

The right cover-up transforms your swimsuit into a complete outfit suitable for beach bars, boardwalk shopping, and everything between. Whether you need modest coverage, sun protection, or simply want to elevate your pool look, countless options exist beyond the basic beach towel wrap. Here are 15 stylish ideas for what to wear over your swimsuit.

1. The Classic Sarong

Nothing beats a sarong for versatility. This simple fabric rectangle becomes a skirt, dress, halter top, or shawl depending on how you tie it. Pack multiple sarongs in different colors for endless outfit possibilities with minimal luggage space.

2. Flowy Kaftan

Kaftans provide generous coverage with elegant drape. The loose silhouette flatters all body types and moves beautifully in beach breezes. Choose lightweight fabrics that will not stick to wet skin or feel heavy in heat.

3. Crochet Dress

Crochet cover-ups add artisanal charm to any swimsuit. The open weave provides visual coverage while remaining breathable. These pieces photograph beautifully and create instant bohemian vibes.

4. Oversized Linen Shirt

A man’s linen shirt worn as a dress or open over your bikini creates effortlessly chic looks. Button it for modest coverage or leave it open for breezy layering. The relaxed fit feels comfortable and cool.

5. Maxi Dress

Lightweight maxi dresses serve as cover-ups by day and dinner attire by evening. Choose styles that slip easily over wet swimsuits without clinging. Breezy fabrics like rayon and cotton gauze work best.

6. Kimono Cardigan

Long kimonos add drama and coverage without bulk. The open front means easy on and off over wet swimwear. Bold prints and flowing fabrics make kimonos statement pieces in their own right.

7. Denim Shorts

Cut-off denim shorts over a bikini bottom is a classic beach look. The casual combination works for beach towns, boardwalk shopping, and relaxed restaurants. Add a crop top or leave your bikini top exposed.

8. Romper or Playsuit

Lightweight rompers provide one-piece convenience with shorts-length legs. These handle activities better than dresses and offer easy bathroom access with the right design. Look for soft, quick-dry fabrics.

9. Wrap Skirt

Wrap skirts tie at the waist over your bikini bottom for instant beach-to-lunch polish. The adjustable nature accommodates any size, and the simple elegance suits various settings.

10. Tunic Top

Tunics hit at mid-thigh or longer, providing modest coverage with the ease of a top. Embroidered or detailed tunics dress up simple swimwear for more polished pool settings.

11. Wide-Leg Pants

Flowy wide-leg pants in lightweight fabric create sophisticated resort looks over swimwear. The dramatic silhouette moves beautifully and provides coverage for conservative settings or sun protection.

12. Mesh or Net Cover-Up

Mesh cover-ups provide the suggestion of coverage while showing your swimsuit underneath. These sheer layers add visual interest without hiding your carefully chosen bikini.

13. Button-Front Dress

Shirt dresses with full button fronts offer adjustable coverage. Button up completely for conservative settings or leave several buttons open to show your suit. Linen and cotton versions breathe well.

14. Matching Set from 3-Piece Bikini

3-piece bikini sets include coordinating cover-ups designed specifically for the swimsuit. The guaranteed match eliminates styling decisions and creates cohesive, intentional looks.

15. Cropped Hoodie or Sweatshirt

For cooler beach evenings or air-conditioned settings, a cropped hoodie over your bikini top creates casual, cozy style. This unexpected combination works for beach bonfires and casual hangouts.

Choosing Your Cover-Up Strategy

Consider your typical beach and pool activities when selecting cover-ups. Active days call for styles that stay out of the way. Restaurant visits require more polished options. Sun protection needs differ from modesty preferences.

Build a collection that covers various scenarios. A versatile sarong handles most situations, while specific pieces address particular needs. Start with basics and add specialty items over time.

Find cover-ups that complement your swimwear in our collection. The right layers extend your swimwear wardrobe into complete beach-day outfits.