Fashion

13 Swim Cover Ups That Will Actually Look Cool At The Beach (Promise)

Beach cover ups are one of those things that just don't even sound like they're going to look good. I look at them as a necessary evil. Because when faced with the choice of exposing my entire (semi) naked body or wearing a sort-of-ugly dress/shirt thing...I choose the latter. Every time. Luckily, I'm beginning to realize that there are magical cover ups out there that are actually, well, nice to look at. Imagine that. Here are 13 of the best beach coverups out there that will leave you feeling comfortable, confident, and not naked (always a plus for a post-swim trip to the diner).

Fringe-Tastic

There’s something unexpectedly chic in looking like a sexy, see-through curtain.

Lace Fringe Tee, $76, topshop.com

Oversized Button-Down

Oversized shirts are always my ideal beach coverup. I’ll be keeping this Topshop piece in mind for when I’m feeling like moving beyond the men’s sale rack to shop for some button-downs.

Aloha Floral Print Beach Shirt, $51, topshop.com

Tassles and Tie Dye

Because what says ‘cute beachwear’ more than tassels and tie-dye? Am I right?

Black + White Tassel Hem Dress, $57, topshop.com

Cozy and Casual

Think posting up next to a bonfire after a long day in the ocean. Cozy, casual, and definitely cute.

La Blanca ‘Hit the Deck’ Hooded Cover-Up Tunic, $69, nordstrom.com

Simple = Better

This is an off-the-shoulder tunic made of cheesecloth. How much more “simple, boho beach goddess” can you even get?

Cheesecloth Open Sleeve Tunic, $41.92, asos.com

Kimono Cool

FYI: You can’t actually be considered cool until you’ve worn a kimono to the beach.

Vagabond Silk Kimono, $48, nastygal.com

Lace Dress

Who doesn’t love a coverup that can transition into the evening?

Miguelina Anna Crotcheted Cotton-Lace Dress, $265, net-a-porter.com

Floral Shorts

Pair these floral board shorts with a graphic tee and a cute bikini for a Carrie Bradshaw-meets-surfer girl look.

Zimmerman Vivid Floral Boardshorts, $220, net-a-porter.com

Fun Romper

Everyone needs a sassy little romper for days by the pool.

Beach Riot Beach Romper, $109, pacsun.com

Something Bright

It’s easy to opt for a black or white beach coverup, but it’s summer — try something bold and bright for a change.

Geo Lace Beach Coverup, $19.05, asos.com

Embroidered Dress

A breezy, embroidered dress is an easy, one-stop way to look stylish and stay cool.

Nili Lotan embroidered dress, $348, jcrew.com

Patterned Pant

What’s not to love about a cozy, patterned pant?

Tori Praver Swimwear Ashwood Pant, $245, shopbob.com

Lace Romper

White? Lace? Romper? All the best parts of beachwear in one, yes?

Miguelina Cicely Cotton Romper, $290, shopbob.com

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