A cover-up is a versatile and stylish https://abathingclothing.com/ addition to your beachwear, offering both comfort and coverage when you’re not in the water. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, walking along the beach, or heading to a seaside café, a well-chosen cover-up can elevate your swimwear look. Here’s how to wear a cover-up with your bathing suit to ensure you stay chic and comfortable all day long.
1. Choosing the Right Cover-Up
The first step in wearing a cover-up is selecting one that complements your bathing suit and suits your style. There are various types of cover-ups, each offering a different level of coverage and style:
- Tunic or Kaftan: A tunic or kaftan is a loose-fitting, flowy garment that provides full coverage. It’s perfect for those who want a breezy, relaxed look while still covering up most of their body. Tunics often feature fun patterns, embroidery, or embellishments that can add a touch of elegance to your beachwear.
- Sarong or Wrap: A sarong is a long piece of fabric that can be wrapped around your waist, worn as a skirt, or even tied as a dress. Sarongs are versatile and can be styled in multiple ways, making them a great option if you want to switch up your look throughout the day.
- Maxi Dress: A maxi dress offers full coverage and can transition easily from beach to street. This type of cover-up is ideal for those who want to look put-together even after leaving the beach. Choose a lightweight, flowy fabric for comfort in the heat.
- Kimono: A kimono-style cover-up is open in the front and often features wide sleeves. It’s a great choice for a stylish, laid-back look that adds a touch of sophistication to your swimwear.
- Playsuit or Romper: For a fun and playful option, consider a playsuit or romper. These one-piece garments are easy to slip on and offer more coverage than a bikini while still keeping your look beachy and casual.
2. Matching Your Cover-Up to Your Bathing Suit
When pairing a cover-up with your bathing suit, it’s important to consider color, pattern, and style coordination:
- Color Coordination: If your bathing suit is a solid color, you can choose a cover-up in a complementary or contrasting shade to create a cohesive look. For example, a white bathing suit pairs beautifully with a brightly colored or patterned cover-up. If your bathing suit has a pattern, opt for a solid-colored cover-up that picks up one of the colors in the pattern.
- Pattern Mixing: If you’re feeling bold, try mixing patterns. For instance, a striped bathing suit can look great with a Bape Sweat Shirt floral or tropical print cover-up, as long as the colors are harmonious. The key to successful pattern mixing is to ensure that at least one color is shared between the two pieces.
- Matching Styles: Consider the overall vibe of your bathing suit and cover-up. If your suit has a vintage-inspired design, pair it with a retro-style cover-up like a high-waisted sarong. For a modern, minimalist suit, a sleek kimono or maxi dress will complement the look.
3. Styling Your Cover-Up
How you wear your cover-up can change the entire feel of your beachwear ensemble. Here are some tips for styling different types of cover-ups:
- Tunic or Kaftan: Wear a tunic or kaftan loose for a relaxed, airy look. You can also cinch it at the waist with a belt to create a more defined silhouette. For added style, consider rolling up the sleeves and accessorizing with a wide-brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses.
- Sarong or Wrap: Sarongs are incredibly versatile. Tie it around your waist as a skirt, or drape it over one shoulder and tie it at the opposite hip for a one-shoulder dress look. You can also twist it in the front and tie it behind your neck to create a halter dress. Pair your sarong with simple sandals and a beach tote for an effortlessly chic look.
- Maxi Dress: Slip on a maxi dress over your bathing suit for instant style. You can leave the dress flowing for a bohemian look, or add a belt to define your waist. Maxi dresses are perfect for transitioning from the beach to a casual dinner, so pair them with some statement jewelry and strappy sandals.
- Kimono: A kimono cover-up can be worn open to showcase your bathing suit or tied at the waist for a bit more coverage. Kimonos with fringe or lace details add a touch of elegance to your beachwear. Pair your kimono with a wide-brimmed hat and some beaded sandals for a boho-chic look.
- Playsuit or Romper: Playsuits are easy to style – just slip it on over your suit and you’re ready to go. For a more polished look, add a pair of wedge sandals and some simple jewelry. Playsuits are also great for beach activities, as they allow for easy movement while still looking stylish.
4. Accessorizing Your Look
Accessories can take your beachwear from simple to stunning. When wearing a cover-up with your bathing suit, consider adding a few key accessories:
- Hats: A wide-brimmed hat not only protects you from the sun but also adds a stylish touch to your outfit. Choose a straw hat for a classic beach look or a floppy fabric hat for a more bohemian vibe.
- Sunglasses: Oversized sunglasses are both practical and fashionable. Opt for a pair that complements the shape of your face and the style of your cover-up.
- Footwear: Flip-flops are a beach staple, but if you want to elevate your look, consider strappy sandals or espadrilles. For a more casual vibe, slip-on sneakers or beach-friendly slides are also great options.
- Beach Bags: A stylish beach bag is essential for carrying your essentials like sunscreen, a towel, and a good book. Woven totes or canvas bags with fun prints can add personality to your outfit.
- Jewelry: Keep jewelry simple and beach-friendly. Consider wearing pieces made of materials that won’t tarnish or be damaged by water, like resin, beads, or cord bracelets. A long necklace or a stack of bangles can add a bit of sparkle without overwhelming your look.
5. Practical Tips for Wearing Cover-Ups
Lastly, keep these practical tips in mind when wearing your cover-up:
- Choose Breathable Fabrics: Opt for cover-ups made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable, even in hot weather.
- Consider the Occasion: Think about where you’ll be wearing your cover-up. A tunic or maxi dress might be more appropriate for a beachside restaurant, while a sarong or romper is perfect for lounging by the pool.
- Pack Smart: If you’re heading on vacation, pack a variety of cover-ups to mix and match with your bathing suits. This will give you multiple outfit options without taking up too much space in your suitcase.
Conclusion
A cover-up is more than just a functional piece; it’s an opportunity to showcase your style and complete your beachwear ensemble. By choosing the right cover-up, coordinating it with your bathing suit, and adding the right accessories, you can create a look that’s both chic and practical. Whether you prefer a relaxed tunic, a versatile sarong, or a trendy playsuit, wearing a cover-up with your bathing suit will ensure you’re ready for anything the day might bring.
