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It's hard to nail down the best part of a good beach trip or pool party—whether you're all about reading a book while soaking up some vitamin D, playing some sand volleyball, getting in to water sports, or just sipping a marg and listening to some tunes, nothing sets the mood for a good beach or pool day like a swimwear look complete with a cute bathing suit and stylish cover-up. And, every summer wardrobe needs at least a few of them to pair with each of your hottest outdoor looks.
You'll want a comfy, airy jumpsuit for times you want more coverage and are going for a more cozy vibe, and then a sexy slip that doubles as lingerie for some fun Insta-worthy photoshoots. And, of course, no cover-up stash is complete without an essential oversized t-shirt or a terry-cloth romper. There are even bold, fashionable options like sheer, glittery pants and vintage crocheted dresses (major '70s vibes!).
A good bathing suit cover-up is a versatile and a fun way to dress-up any beachy look (consider it the ultimate poolside accessory in addition to your sunnies). It's also got to be functional—meaning it'll be lightweight, comfortable, and cater to your lifestyle whether you're looking for something that's purely stylish, that you could work out in, or that you could easily wear out and about off the sand, too.
See below for the best bathing suit cover-ups you'll want to plan all your beach trips (and photoshoots) around:
Between the cute geometric design, flattering A-line silhouette, flared sleeves,and sexy keyhole neckline, there's nothing not to love about this fun, flirty cover-up.
Get it in white to match literally any bathing suit you have on underneath it, but grab the redor pinkif you're looking for something with more color.
Not only will this net crocheted fabric always be in style for its beachy, hippy chic vibes, it's airy, light, comfortable, and less than $20. For that price, feel free to get it in all 18 colors.
The versatile dress can easily be paired with a belt or denim shorts and a tee underneath, too.
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A quality essentialthat you'll likely keep in your closet for years to come, this classic shirtdress looks super chic but it's lightweight and breathable, too. The colarless style and relaxed fit make it extra comfortable for a poolside look (or just to lounge around the house).
Made with Lululemon's signature barely-there fabric, this is actually totally waterproof and features air back panels that'll seamlessly take you in and out of the water if you're looking for more coverage during your swim workouts.
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If you're looking for more coverage on your bottom half, this wrap skirt has a tie that offers you the ability to adjust based upon how much skin you want to show off. Pair it with a one piece or bodysuit and heelsfor a super sexy beach bar look, or simply a bikini top for a glam poolside vibe.
If comfort is your primary concern, you may be feeling like you have to sacrifice style. That's never the case when it comes to Gigi C's stylish swimwear made with butter-soft fabric, and this mesh cover-up is no exception.
The ultra-fine mesh feels great on the skin (wet or dry!), and the high side slits make the best opportunity to show off your sexy legs.
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7
Best Cover-Up With Pockets
Ailunsnika Striped V Neck Beachwear Blouse Cover Up Dress for Women Sexy Long Sleeve Gray Swimsuit Cover Ups with Pockets
It's 2021, and by now, nearly every piece of clothing should come with pockets. Till we get there, this adorable dress-like cover-up has you (literally) covered.
It offers high coverage with a lace-up neckline that you can tighten for a more conservative look, and it's available in 28 fun colors and prints, some of which offer a button-up look instead of a lace-up, if you prefer that.
Not allowing yourself a full-blown photoshoot in this cover-up is a definite missed opportunity. You'll love the way the flowing back billows in the wind as you casually walk past the pool or dip your toes in the tide.
It's not going to offer tons of coverage on your front side, but it makes agreat, stylish accessory. You can also easily pair it with jeans, a tank, and wedges.
This semi-sheer robe has major '50s Hollwyood vibes (just picture yourself walking down a spiral staircase in this and your sexiest bikini). The tie-waist is adjustable to your desired level of coverage, and the robe will look just as good over your sexy lingerie as it will next to the pool.
For a chic, high-coverage look that's great if you prefer hanging by the pool rather than in it, this jumpsuit offers tons of coverage without being heavy or sweat-inducing in the heat.
Made with breathable, stretchy cotton, don't be surprised if this ends up being an item you reach for time and time again in your summer wardrobe. Bonus: pair it with a turtleneck underneath and some boots for winter, too.
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Consider this the 1920s flapper version of a cover-up. (Gatsby pool party, anyone?) It's just as sexy as it is chic. Nobody will know how comfortable you really feel.
Ok, ok, so this technically isn't a cover-up. But the traditional Indian silky vintage fabric is super versatile. Wear it with your favorite bathing suit, jeans and a t-shirt with some cute wedges, or any of your ethnic wear for a fun, unique pop of color and texture.
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The nautical stripes on this hooded cover-up are begging to be paired with a yacht party or day out on a boat. This makes a chic barbecue or picnic look, too. Even though it isn't sheer or netted, the knit fabric and slouchy fit makes itstill feel really airy.
A romper can occasionally be a bit uncomfortable (and, let's be honest—wedgie-inducing), but this one has a drapey silhouette and plunging neckline that makes it easy to slip on and off—perfect for all those trips back and forth between the bar and pool.
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If you really love your bathing suit or want to show off that hot new bikini top, these sexy pants are begging to be a part of your next beach outfit. The split hem shows off your legs while still providing some coverage to your back side, and the embroidered hemline adds a fun flare.
So cozy that you'll likely want to rock this all day and night from your beach house to the pool and tiki-lit bars at night, the hood on this one is a low-key feature you'll come to love. Not only does it add a sporty look, it's a great way to protect your scalp from the sun if you want, too.
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Hate that wet feeling on your clean clothes? This terry towel fabric romper was made for you. Plus, the bright, sunny color makes it a fun addition to any wardrobe, whether you're planning on being at the beach or just a picnic.
Planning on stocking up your swimwear essentials pre-honeymoon or for a special girls trip you just want to treat yourself for? This super luxe cover-up is a definite investment piece you'll love wearing for decades to come.
Between the subtle slits on the side, the delicate geometric pattern, and the lace fabric, it'll stay in style forever.
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For the most coverage and something that provides optimal function, this maxi dress doubles as a chic, effortless cover-up that comes in tons of fun prints and bright colors.
The best part? It has pockets big enoughto hold your phone and wallet (or snacks).
Iknow, Iknow. Technically this isn't labeled asa cover-up, but who would really know the difference if you're wearing it over a bathing suit. If you're trying to pack light or avoid checking in a bag on vaca, this chic little mesh slip is a sexy addition to all your poolside and indoor activities.
Neha Tandon
Former Senior Commerce Editor
Neha Tandon is the former senior commerce editor of Women's Health. She has written for New York Magazine, Cosmopolitan, BRIDES, Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider, Byrdie, and Well+Good.
