Going to the beach is never so stylish without some beach cover ups. This can be a one-of-a-kind item to try when you want to mix up your outfits. Even on the beach, this outerwear stays comfortable when you need a simple walk, a short boat transfer, or a stroll between water activities. Having a cover-up is one of the best things you should consider to fit in your luggage before a nice tropical holiday.
Cover ups are also quite flexible outfits. You might need to move from one place to another easily. Changing the whole beach outfit can take up valuable holiday time, especially between dives or water activities. With cover-ups, there will be no need to do such things frequently. You will always stay trendy and walk with confidence, even in a crowd.
To help you know what to choose for beach cover-ups, below is a detailed list of their types to help you make the right choice. There are various types to match your own preference. You might need one of them after a fresh swim, a dive course, or a sunbath at the beach. In total, there are 8 types of it which are suitable for every kind of body. So, feel free to explore any of them to make your holiday a glamorous one.
What are beach cover ups?
Beach cover ups are stylish and lightweight garments meant to be worn over swimsuits. They offer comfort, a layer of sun protection, and an effortless way to move from the beach to dive boats, cafés, or boardwalks. These flexible pieces allow for easy dressing and undressing while keeping you covered fashionably.
These beachwear garments come in a variety of styles, including flowing dresses, sarongs, tunics, and airy kimonos. Most of them are crafted from breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or chiffon, which help keep you cool while adding elegance. Their lightweight design makes them ideal for summer days by the water or casual seaside strolls.
Beyond their practicality, beach cover-ups can also express personal style and elevate your swimwear look, and they are an important part of your entire gear. Accessories like belts, hats, or statement jewellery can transform a simple tunic or sarong into a complete outfit. Some styles are designed to handle light water exposure, making them practical for short dips or wearing between dive sessions. This makes it easier to move from sunbathing to water activities without changing outfits.
Tips to choose proper cover-ups
It may be quite tricky to choose your beach cover ups for the first time. You may need to find something that also gives you ease before your swim and comfort after your diving and snorkeling activities. There are no cover-ups that are considered unfit because the issue of comfort will always depend on how you want to use your cover-ups. Choosing the cover-ups depending on your activities will give you the best feeling of comfort.
These tips will help you choose the best cover-up and make your beach holiday more comfortable. The good thing about this kind of beachwear is that you can use it with other beachwear. That means this kind of cover-up is suitable for you, especially if you are looking for something fancy for your dinner, diving, and other activities around the beach. Here are some tips for you to choose the best cover-ups:
- Prioritise Material: Choose light, breathable fabrics to stay cool. Linen is ideal for hot weather, while cotton is strong and durable.
- Flexibility: Select items that can be worn in multiple ways, such as a sarong that can be a skirt or dress, or a button-down shirt that works for lunch.
- Consider Functionality: Look for quick-drying beach cover ups if you plan on going directly from the water to lunch or relaxing after a dive, such as polyester or specialised blends.
- Match Your Swimwear: If your swimsuit is patterned, choose some solid-coloured beach cover-ups to avoid clashing.
- Size and Fit: Pick a style that accentuates your features, such as a short, flowy dress to showcase legs, or a maxi for more coverage.
- Sun Protection: For added protection, choose dark or vibrant colours, or look for items with UPF ratings.
- Easy Care: Choose pieces that are machine washable and do not require heavy ironing.
8 Types of Beach Cover Ups
Beach cover ups are essential pieces of clothing that everyone needs when spending time on the beach. They offer a simple solution for staying covered while on the beach. It is easy to transition from the beach to a café, dive shop, or even a poolside hangout. In addition, beach cover-ups promote modesty, protect the skin from the sun, and allow for quick changes from swimsuits. They are essential in helping people avoid changing outfits too often.
Beach cover-ups are designed with the aim of ensuring comfort while on the beach. You find it in design with fabrics such as cotton, linen, or even chiffon. The garments come in different styles, depending on the needs of the individual. They may include a short tunic or even a sarong, which is best for strolling on the beach. They may also include long kaftans or even dresses, which are best for parties or even evening wear. We will discuss 8 popular styles of beach cover-ups below.
Sarong
The sarong is a classic choice for beach cover ups, loved for its versatility and flattering fit. It enhances your silhouette while providing light coverage and comfort, making it perfect for lounging by the water. Most sarongs are not designed for swimming, but they are ideal to wear before or after diving sessions.
One sarong can serve many purposes, from a short skirt to a wrap dress or even a shawl. Folding it diagonally or wrapping it around the waist lets you experiment with different styles effortlessly. Choosing colourful patterns or playful prints can complement your swimwear while adding personality to your beach look. Here are some of the types of sarongs to mix your style:
- Batik Sarong
- Kain Pelikat or Lungi
- Beach Sarong or Wrap
- Ceremonial or Balinese Sarong
- Songket Sarong
- Saput
Tunic
Tunics are a chic and comfortable option for beach cover ups. The design is long, flowing tops that typically reach just below the knee. They are usually made from lightweight fabrics, providing added comfort. It is often embroidery or beading, as they provide an airy layer over your swimwear. Most tunics are not intended for swimming, but they are easy to slip off when heading into the water.
The loose silhouette suits many body shapes, offering both comfort and style. Side vents, wide necklines, or tapered waists can flatter hips and thighs, while V-neck designs highlight the neck and face. Pair a tunic with sunglasses, a sunhat, or statement jewellery to create a balanced beach outfit. It helps the transition more effortlessly from sand to seaside cafes.
Sun dress
Sundresses are a popular option for beach cover ups. The design is perfect for those who like a polished and effortless look by the shore. They come in various lengths and styles. It could go from short and strapless to long and flowing. Most sundresses are not designed for swimming. Therefore, they are lightweight and easy to slip on over a swimsuit. It makes them ideal for walking along the beach or lounging poolside.
These dresses are flattering for many body types. Choosing the right cut can enhance your shape. A-line sundresses create a universally balanced silhouette, wrap styles emphasise curves and the waist. The boxy shift dresses also provide a loose and breezy option that won’t cling. With countless patterns and colours, sundresses are versatile, stylish, and practical as a casual summer cover-up.
Playsuits
Playsuits are versatile all-in-one outfits that double as stylish beach cover ups. Known interchangeably as rompers, jumpsuits, or dungarees, they offer an easy, put-together look without much effort. Most playsuits are not swimmable. They are made from lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, lace, or crochet. It will keep you cool under the sun while transitioning from the water to beachside activities.
These cover-ups suit all body types. You can dress them up or down for casual or slightly formal beach occasions. Pair them with flip-flops, sneakers, or espadrilles for effortless style. With options like strapless, sleeveless, backless, or asymmetrical designs, playsuits are a practical yet chic addition to your summer wardrobe.
Kaftan
Kaftans are timeless, loose-fitting garments that serve as elegant beach cover ups. Inspired by Moroccan, African, and Middle Eastern fashion. They offer effortless style while keeping you comfortable. Most kaftans are not swimmable, though. But their airy fabrics, like chiffon or lightweight cotton, make them perfect for layering over a swimsuit. It eases the transition from the sand to beachside cafés, dive briefings, or relaxed evening gatherings.
This versatile cover-up works for casual days or more dressy beach occasions. With a wide variety of lengths, patterns, and colours, kaftans flatter all body types and help conceal bloating. Pairing them with statement accessories or a chic beach bag elevates the outfit while keeping it practical for moving from the shore to nearby restaurants or gatherings.
Kimono
Kimonos are traditional Japanese garments that have become a stylish choice as part of beach cover ups. Most versions are knee-length with sleeves falling just below the elbows, with ankle-length options. Lightweight fabrics make them breathable and easy to layer over a swimsuit. It provides coverage while keeping the outfit comfortable and fashionable.
This flowing cover-up adds an instant bohemian touch to any beach outfit. You could add some other beach outfits to complete the look while on the beach. While kimonos aren’t designed for swimming, they work for walking along the shore or moving from sand to beachside restaurants.
Wrap dress
Wrap dresses are ideal for achieving effortless resort-style looks and make versatile beach cover ups. Their design flatters a variety of body types. It offers comfort and style in one piece. Lightweight and easy to slip on over a swimsuit. These dresses transition seamlessly from sunbathing on the sand to enjoying a beach café.
When choosing a wrap dress, consider the neckline and length for your body shape. A V-neck can elongate the torso or highlight the collarbone, while a knee-length hem offers moderate coverage. For cooler evenings, a longer version provides warmth without sacrificing style. It makes a practical yet chic addition to any summer wardrobe.
Maxi dress
Maxi dresses are a staple for a summer wardrobe and serve as stylish beach cover ups. Their length and flowy design make them versatile, allowing for both casual beach days and more dressed-up occasions. Lightweight fabrics and breathable materials ensure comfort while walking along the shore or lounging by the pool.
You will find These dresses come in various cuts. It could be fit at the top and flowing at the bottom to completely loose silhouettes. flattering all body types. Pair a maxi dress with sunglasses, sandals, or a wide-brimmed hat for a chic summer look, while a headscarf or statement earrings add personality and complete the effortless beach-ready outfit.
Bring your style and be more comfortable in water activities with Diving First Komodo!
These are the eight beach cover ups to add to your style when on the shoreline. Now you know how to dress up in more fashionable attire with your beachwear. Always use suitable garment materials when going on a holiday with water activities. Make sure the materials are of the best quality to accompany you while on the water.
Of course, the beach cover-up is always good in use after or before a dive. Diving First Komodo Offering many diving packages for all levels starting from beginner, intermediate, and advanced. A full team of experienced divers are ready to guide you for better safety and experience after a nice beach relaxation.