News 18 Cover-Ups to Take You From Beach to Cocktails By Andrea Cheng Published on July 3, 2013 Pin Share Tweet Email Photo: 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. [wrn_button url="https://www.instyle.com/instyle/package/general/photos/0,,20689922_20714305_21355972,00.html" text="SEE THE PHOTOS!" title=" SEE THE PHOTOS!"] MORE:Cute Ways to Cover Up, Inspired by Heidi KlumCover-Up Idea: Crocheted MiniSee the Bikinis That Celebs Are Wearing 01 of 18 Lemlem Brian Henn Burn easily? Look for longer sleeves. Cotton blend, $248; lemlem.com. 02 of 18 Old Navy 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. 03 of 18 Roberta Freymann Brian Henn Pair a bright coral (the color's hot right now) belt for added flair. $145; robertafreymann.com. 04 of 18 Figue Brian Henn The intricately embroidery is based on a traditional West African dashiki. $495; figue.com. 05 of 18 Comptoir des Cotonniers Brian Henn Roll up your sleeves for some fun with this playful print. $140; comptoirdescotonniers.co.uk. 06 of 18 Surf Bazaar Brian Henn This cover-up would look sharp with a lemon-colored suit peeking through. $150; thebazaarshops.com. 07 of 18 Vix Brian Henn The LBD for the beach! Catch a glimpse of your suit through the intricate cut-out detailing. $210; vixpaulahermanny.com. 08 of 18 River Island Courtesy Speak to your bohemian side in this blue tie-dye strapless maxi. $30; riverisland.com. 09 of 18 Mara Hoffman Courtesy The Aztec-inspired print will add a jolt of spice to your shore side wardrobe. $275; net-a-porter.com. 10 of 18 Ted Baker London Courtesy A sweet scenic print and crisscross straps make this sheer cover-up a far cry from boring. $50; tedbaker-london.com. 11 of 18 Matthew Williamson Courtesy Who needs a belt? Use the drawstring to accentuate your waist. $534; matchesfashion.com. 12 of 18 Missoni Mare Courtesy This topper mixes two of the brand's iconic prints. $440; thecorner.com. 13 of 18 Like Mynded Courtesy Breezy in nature, this floral number fits and flatters every body shape. $36; nordstrom.com. 14 of 18 Topshop Courtesy Add subtle bling with this two-tone dip-dyed maxi that boasts embellished straps. $72; topshop.com. 15 of 18 Zara Courtesy A block of canary yellow keeps things interesting by breaking up the tasseled print. $50; zara.com. 16 of 18 H&M Courtesy 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. 17 of 18 Vix Courtesy Bright yellow and bold florals make for the perfect sunny kaftan. $154; net-a-porter.com. 18 of 18 Melissa Odabash Courtesy Upgrade your white cover-up for one with neon-blue embroidery and sequin detailing. $210; net-a-porter.com. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit