Ultimate Swimsuit Cover-Up Guide

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You know summer is rapidly approaching when a big wave of nostalgia washes over you, and all you can think of is the coconut-tinged smell of sunscreen and salty ocean breeze. Feeling impatient? Fill the time between now and Memorial day weekend getting beach-ready—starting with the hunt for an incredible cover-up.

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Whether a dress or pareo, this outer layer completely complements your beach look, and goes from morning to night with a few strategic styling tweaks. (Pro tip: Tie a simple sarong up over your neck for extra coverage before a fruity drink run.) Below, we've gathered 9 of our favorite options out there this season. Scroll down to shop!

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A dress that goes beyond the beach

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$52 Topshop SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A relaxed South American-inspired kaftan

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$395 Lemlem SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A glamorous crepe de chine cover-up

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$1,005 Ariana Degreas SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A dress to take you from the beach to the beach bar

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$1,470 March 11 SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A floral mini to throw over a simple string bikini

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$315 Miguelina SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A cheerful pareo in a sunflower motif

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$455 Dolce & Gabbana SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A leopard print option that walks on the wild side

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$13 H&M SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A floaty peasant design that's even better with a straw bag

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$416 Anjuna SHOP IT Opens a new window

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A cotton-blend scarf you'll live in all summer long

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$178 Diane von Furstenberg SHOP IT Opens a new window

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Get a Head Start on Summer With These 9 Stand Out Cover-Ups