Goodbye, Denim Shorts—These 23 Swimsuit Cover-Ups Are Just Cooler.
For years, denim shorts have been the go-to option for what to wear over a swimsuit. They're practical, easily thrown on, and likely already in your wardrobe. However, after spending time scrolling through Instagram, checking out new arrivals, and observing what fashionable women are actually packing for holidays, it's become clear that swimsuit cover-ups have developed beyond simple sarongs and oversized tees. The options this season are sophisticated enough to wear beyond the beach and trendy enough to compete with your favorite summer outfits. Consider crochet dresses that can serve as dinner attire, wide-leg pants that pair effortlessly with a bikini top, breezy matching sets, and elevated caftans that evoke the relaxed vibe of a getaway in the South of France. If you're inclined to put your denim cutoffs aside—at least for a while—these swimsuit cover-ups are must-haves for your travel bag this summer.
Cover-Up Pants Are the New Beach Essential
If there's one swim trend expected to take off this summer, it's cover-up pants. Light, comfortable, and stylish, they provide a more refined option than denim shorts while remaining just as easy to style.
Playa Lucila
Wide Leg Pants
Cover-up pants are poised to have a significant moment this year.
A noteworthy shell print.
J.Crew
Embellished Balloon Pant
This look exudes an off-duty model vibe.
Crochet Is Still Going Strong
From intricately hand-crocheted dresses to coordinated skirt sets, crochet continues to dominate the resort wear category. The texture adds immediate interest to even the most straightforward swim looks.
Ulla Johnson
Tula Coverup Dress
A stylish blend of summer's biggest trends—crochet and sheer.
My Beachy Side
Olea Hand Crocheted Dress
This color combination is stunning.
superdown
Lacen Crochet Skirt Set
This set is unbeatable for a beach party.
The Vacation Dress You'll Wear on Repeat
The best cover-up dresses are those that transition smoothly from lounging on the beach to dining out. These versatile options are set to become the most essential items in your suitcase.
Hill House Home
The Enella Tunic
This is the kind of dress you'll want to take on every trip after wearing it just once.
Lisa Marie Fernandez
Poet Mini Dress
Every detail of this dress is impressive.
Show Me Your Mumu
Paula Pullover
A great choice if you love color.
Matching Sets Make Getting Dressed Foolproof
Coordinated cover-ups take the stress out of outfit selection. Whether it's a crochet set or a swimsuit-and-cover-up combo, these pieces ensure a polished look with minimal effort.
I've worn the shorts from this crochet set before and I adore them.
Bananhot
Bowie Wide Leg Pants
Oseree
Lumière embellished beach cover-up
The embellishments are the best feature.
The Return of the Elevated Kaftan
A little bit of print goes a long way.
Monday Swimwear
Kokomo Kaftan
Pairing this with pants is the ultimate power move.
If you thought kaftans were only for your mom, you are seriously mistaken.
More Cover-Ups Worth Packing:
Once typically reserved for lounging by the pool, today’s kaftans feel innovative with modern silhouettes, sheer fabrics, and thoughtful details that make them appropriate far beyond the beach.
Shani Shemer
Rebecca Mini Dress
This burgundy shade is a dream.
Combine it with a contrasting color bikini for an appealing look.
Free People
Neptunes Net Sarong
The easiest piece to pack.
Pucci
Mixed Print cotton beach cover-up
Prepare for yet another swimsuit cover-up.
Monday Swimwear
Montego Mini Tie Dress
This gold fabric catches the eye.
LE BOP
Camille Maxi Dress
I want this in both colors.
Effortless and versatile.
Hot pants are trending this summer.
Monday Swimwear
Fiji Tunic
Just one button-down shirt can make a significant impact.
Taller Marmo
Ido Mini Beach Dress
Polo Ralph Lauren
Boyfriend Long Sleeve Cover-Up Tunic
Style this on the same trip with a skirt or pants for a lovely dinner.
O'Neill
Zoey Sheer Cotton Cover-Up Mini Sundress
This evokes surfer girl vibes in the best way.
BP.
Open Stitch Cover-Up Minidress
There’s something charming about crochet.
J.Crew
Sadie Beach Dress in Cotton Voile Marigold Block Print
Simply throw this on to head to the beach and then dress it up for the evening.
J.Crew
Relaxed-Fit Beach Shirt in Linen-Cotton Blend
You’ll see stylish women in the South of France sporting this all season long.
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Goodbye, Denim Shorts—These 23 Swimsuit Cover-Ups Are Just Cooler.
From crochet dresses to lightweight trousers, these are the swimsuit cover-ups that fashion enthusiasts are sporting this summer.