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  3. 18 Cover-Ups to Take You From Beach to Cocktails

18 Cover-Ups to Take You From Beach to Cocktails

By Andrea Cheng
Updated Jul 03, 2013 @ 2:10 pm
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Credit: Courtesy

If a swimsuit is the star in beachwear, then a cover-up plays the sartorial equivalent of a supporting role—an accoutrement, but just as important. It serves as a figure-flattering sun guard by day and a transitional piece come dusk. Lightweight, flowy fabrics easily skim (not cling) over shy areas. Opaque ones to ensure more coverage. Got a suit you want to show off? Switch to sheer. And when you’re done with the sun, pair shorter lengths with crisp white jeans or shorts. For longer versions, cinch a belt at the waist and throw on espadrilles to turn your look from beach-going goddess to dinner-ready chic. From traditional kaftans to modern styles, we’ve got you covered—literally. Click through to see our roundup of 18 winning styles.

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MORE:Cute Ways to Cover Up, Inspired by Heidi KlumCover-Up Idea: Crocheted MiniSee the Bikinis That Celebs Are Wearing

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Lemlem

Credit: Brian Henn

Burn easily? Look for longer sleeves.

Cotton blend, $248;

lemlem.com.

1 of 18

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Old Navy

Credit: Brian Henn

This darker hue can do double-duty as a cover-up at the beach and as a sexy mini at night.

$25;

oldnavy.com.

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Roberta Freymann

Credit: Brian Henn

Pair a bright coral (the color’s hot right now) belt for added flair.

$145;

robertafreymann.com.

3 of 18

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Figue

Credit: Brian Henn

The intricately embroidery is based on a traditional West African dashiki.

$495;

figue.com.

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5 of 18

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Comptoir des Cotonniers

Credit: Brian Henn

Roll up your sleeves for some fun with this playful print.

$140;

comptoirdescotonniers.co.uk.

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Surf Bazaar

Credit: Brian Henn

This cover-up would look sharp with a lemon-colored suit peeking through.

$150;

thebazaarshops.com.

6 of 18

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Vix

Credit: Brian Henn

The LBD for the beach! Catch a glimpse of your suit through the intricate cut-out detailing.

$210;

vixpaulahermanny.com.

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River Island

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Speak to your bohemian side in this blue tie-dye strapless maxi.

$30;

riverisland.com.

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Mara Hoffman

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The Aztec-inspired print will add a jolt of spice to your shore side wardrobe.

$275;

net-a-porter.com.

9 of 18

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Ted Baker London

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A sweet scenic print and crisscross straps make this sheer cover-up a far cry from boring.

$50;

tedbaker-london.com.

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Matthew Williamson

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Who needs a belt? Use the drawstring to accentuate your waist.

$534;

matchesfashion.com.

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Missoni Mare

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This topper mixes two of the brand’s iconic prints.

$440;

thecorner.com.

12 of 18

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Like Mynded

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Breezy in nature, this floral number fits and flatters every body shape.

$36;

nordstrom.com.

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Topshop

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Add subtle bling with this two-tone dip-dyed maxi that boasts embellished straps.

$72;

topshop.com.

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Zara

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A block of canary yellow keeps things interesting by breaking up the tasseled print.

$50;

zara.com.

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H&M

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It’s safe to say that you won’t get lost in this electric lime kimono. Team it with a thick leather belt to fashion an instant dress.

$25;

hm.com.

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Vix

Credit: Courtesy

Bright yellow and bold florals make for the perfect sunny kaftan.

$154;

net-a-porter.com.

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Melissa Odabash

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Upgrade your white cover-up for one with neon-blue embroidery and sequin detailing.

$210;

net-a-porter.com.

18 of 18

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1 of 18 Lemlem
2 of 18 Old Navy
3 of 18 Roberta Freymann
4 of 18 Figue
5 of 18 Comptoir des Cotonniers
6 of 18 Surf Bazaar
7 of 18 Vix
8 of 18 River Island
9 of 18 Mara Hoffman
10 of 18 Ted Baker London
11 of 18 Matthew Williamson
12 of 18 Missoni Mare
13 of 18 Like Mynded
14 of 18 Topshop
15 of 18 Zara
16 of 18 H&M
17 of 18 Vix
18 of 18 Melissa Odabash

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18 Cover-Ups to Take You From Beach to Cocktails
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