I’m going on holiday with the girls in July, but I’ve got nothing to throw on over my bikinis. I think there’ll be a mix of casual beach days and beach clubs, so I’d love to find beach cover ups I feel super confident wearing, but that are comfortable too. I really like all the Love Island outfits this year, and I wouldn’t mind some beach club outfits in the mix. But I’m not sure I’ll need to be super glam (wedges and all!) every day. Help!!
Sophie from St Albans
So jealous you’ve got a holiday booked in! It’s definitely time to start planning some outfits and we’ll help you find the right beach cover up to add to your holiday packing list. After all, if you’ve invested in a new swimsuit and bikini (or three!), one thing you can’t go without is the perfect cover up.
From chilled lounging days at the beach to full-on beach club outfits, a cover up is essential. Lucky for you there are lots to choose from, whether you’re a fan of this season’s must-have crochet trousers, a classic kaftan, or a wrap around skirt – yes the sarong is back, but not as you might remember it!
What fabrics should you look for in your beach cover up?
First thing to think about is fabric. You want your cover up to be lightweight, airy, and easy to wear. Look at modal and viscose – sweat-absorbing fabrics that don’t trap as much heat. Not only will these fabrics pack more easily into a suitcase (and not get excessively creased), they’ll also be much more comfortable to wear in the midday heat. Failing those, look to 100% cottons and linen outfits, from oversized shirts, and floaty day dresses. Pick a light feeling thread and they’re more likely to keep you cool.
What beach cover up will suit you?
There’s a beach cover up for every occasion. Whether you’re going to a local Cornwall cove, beach clubbing in Mykonos, or sipping rosé on a St Tropez beach. Sometimes you want a cover up to be just that – something to protect your body from the sun (while looking chic at the same time, of course). Other times, it’s less about covering up and actually about creating an all-out showstopper outfit.
If you’re looking for a forever-piece, turn to neutrals and classic shapes. A long button-up shirt or linen co-ord is a hero piece you’ll want to put on again and again. You can’t go wrong with darker shades – navy, black and khaki – for pieces that will stand the test of time against sitting on sandy and cobbled beaches.
For a party island trip, you’ll probably want to throw something more stand out into the holiday packing mix. It’s time for brights (and something a bit more playful!) This is the moment for those flared crochet trousers, a cut out mini dress or glamorous kimono. No digging sandcastles in these outfits, it’s time for dancing into the night!
What are the best beach outfits to wear this summer
Short co-ords
Short and shirt co-ords are having a moment. If you’re a minimalist shopper at heart and after something low-key, stick to a block colour and boxy shape. Otherwise, turn to pretty broderie and lace styles for a summery look.
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Sarong skirts
Threw out your makeshift scarf/sarong a decade ago? This season’s skirts are the perfect throwback – all the effortless draping and bold prints, but without the fuss and flimsiness.
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Crochet rousers
Show off your favourite bikini with some crochet trousers, taking you straight from sun lounger to beach bar. A glam option for slinking around in, even when the sun goes down.
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Long shirts
A shirt dress or a long shirt is one of the most versatile options for flinging on over a swimsuit or bikini. Wear half buttoned-up and you’re sorted for a long lazy lunch.
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Floaty dresses
For days at the beach, I’ll steer clear of anything too clingy. Even denim shorts can be too much. It’s all about a floaty dress instead. They’re effortless – so they’ll not only feel comfy, they’ll look great too.
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Crochet dresses
The summer crochet trend is not going anywhere and I love a colourful crochet dress in hot weather. For something sleek look to a black or neutral midi. Or, if you’re style’s a bit bolder go for a neon.
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Long kimonos
For ultimate elegance, invest in a striking kimono. Picture an infinity pool, a sunset, wafting around feeling glamorous, the beach is your catwalk!
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