Collage of cover-ups from stores© Asos

Complete your beach look this summer with a trendy cover up

The perfect layer for your beach and pool outfits


JUNE 20, 2020 11:40 AM EDT

Bikinis and swimsuits are usually top of the shopping list when planning for the warmer weather but the perfect cover up is also a must. Textures, prints, and a range of designs lend themselves to mixing and matching with classic beachwear for a perfect look. The best options seen at 2020 spring-summer fashion shows will bring your beach look to another level. Whether it’s a set, dress, sarong, or maybe even some comfy pants, there are so many great options, just keep scrolling to check them out.

© Revolve

Trending lilac

Lilac, a romantic, flattering color, is definitely one of the stars this season. This Oku dress from Mikoh ($81) flatters the figure not only with its single-color design, but also the midi cut and belt — perfect to subtly show off your curves. And the shirt style is both classic and elegant enough to go from the beach or pool to a day downtown.

© Pretty little thing

Zebra print

Last-minute invite to the beach? Nothing is more chic and practical than a one-piece that can match with your bikini. Try something comfortable and stylish like the Gold Greek Key Bow Front Beach Romper by Pretty Little Thing ($30).

© L Space

Vintage flowers

Psychedelic ‘60s prints made a triumphant return this season. And there isn’t any fashion law saying you can’t wear them with your swimsuits. The Mia cover up by L Space ($114) is perfect for showing off your tan.

© H&M

Earth tones

It’s no secret that the part of the color wheel where you can find beige, yellow, orange, and brown goes great with sun and sand. The linen-blend Kaftan by H&M ($49.99) is one of those pieces that will make you look good throughout the season. You can wear it open to turn heads with your bikini, or closed with espadrilles for lunch with your girlfriends.

© Mara Hoffman

Perfect polka dots

With a range of sizes and colors, polka dots are one of those trends that has taken every piece in the 2020 spring season by storm. The Eavan skirt by Mara Hoffman ($227.50) is a light, fun piece to combine with your single-color pieces.

RELATED: Polka dots: the print with the celebrity seal of approval that will never go out of style

© Asos

The floral trend

Flowers are a must this season. Brands like Carolina Herrera and Dolce & Gabbana used dark backgrounds with floral prints for a sensual take on the trend. The Mollii hedgerow tabbard cover up by Ted Baker ($80) is a great example of this.

© Missguided

Tropical print

Tropical prints are another of this season’s biggest stars, which is why we can’t leave out the white tropical mesh beach cover up by Missguided (Top $30 - Pants $38).

© Revolve

Maxi crochet dress

Crochet is a sensual and romantic texture that is one of the most delicate and eye-catching of the 2020 spring-summer season. The Aurelia Crochet Dress by Majorelle ($238) is a great way to liven up the idea of a sheer maxi dress.

© Shein

Ever-present black

Open knit fringe hem cover up pants by Shan ($17) is a new take on basic black pants. A high waist and a combination of fabric and tassels make them a perfect match for your swimsuits.

© Tobi

See-through and elegant

If you have flashy, colorful, and printed swimsuits, then maybe you’re looking for a more neutral piece to cover up, something not too over-the-top. The Whipsy Reese Ivory Sheer Lace Cover Up by Tobi ($68) brings the lingerie trend to the beach and you can combine it with practically any color.

RELATED: Show off your sexy side this summer with a bit of lingerie

© Asos

Neon explosion

Neon colors are another top trend this season. The Neon Yellow Plunge Neck Slinky Jersey Beach Jumpsuit by Asos ($42) is perfect to combine with neutral swimsuits as well as printed ones.

© The Outnet

Unforgettable animal print

Leopard print has been a staple trend in recent seasons. The Anika leopard-print kimono by Tigerlily ($164 on The Outnet) is the perfect comfortable and cool piece for beach outings.

© Nasty Gal

Bell bottom pants

The ‘Wide On Time’ chiffon cover-up culottes from Nasty Gal ($27) with a full swimsuit, maxi basket, and braided gladiator sandals could be the best look to start and finish your days at the beach or pool.

© Revolve

Tie dye mania

Colors know no limits when it comes to this ‘60s and ‘70s throwback. Yes, we’re talking about tie dye. The Cyrillla Dress by Young, Fabulous & Broke ($268 on Revolve) is the perfect comfortable and trendy cover up.

© Shopbop

A bit of jungle

There’s nothing like a tropical vibe when you’re at the beach or pool. The Tropical Sarong Skirt by Playa Lucila ($100 on Shopbop) is perfect to wear this summer with your favorite swimsuit. The intensity and combination of its green hues, along with hints of yellow and orange, make this a perfect piece.

RELATED: The best celebrity bikini looks to copy for a 100% hot vacation

© Boohoo

Must-have white

The Split Front Maxi Beach Kaftan by Boohoo ($32) shows that there are options outside the typical shirt styles and beach tunics. Long, cuffed sleeves, two slits in the skirt, and a plunging v-neck give a new take to this cover up.