The Best Beach Cover-Ups
for Sun, Sand, and Style
Rainforest Rainbow Girl Leg Swimsuit – Maxine // Georgette Ruffled Sarong – J. Valdi
SUMMARY:
A guide to help women choose the best beach cover-ups for comfort, style, and confidence. Perfect for sunny days and seaside outings.
– Look for breathable, quick-dry fabrics and flattering fits that pack easily.
– Fabrics like cotton, rayon, gauze, and linen keep you cool in warm weather.
– Style your cover-up with sarongs, tunics, or button-downs for beach-to-brunch versatility.
When it comes to beach day essentials, sunscreen and a great swimsuit may top the list, but don’t underestimate the power of the perfect cover-up. Whether you're heading from the sand to a seaside lunch or simply want something breezy to toss over your suit, the right cover-up adds both ease and elegance to your coastal look.
From lightweight kimonos to the ever-versatile dress cover-up, there’s no shortage of chic options. But with so many styles out there, how do you find the one that checks every box?
Let’s make it simple. This guide will walk you through what to look for in the best beach cover-ups, the coolest materials for warm-weather wear, and how to style your favorite beach dresses and cover-ups for effortless flair.
What Makes a Beach Cover-Up Truly Worth Packing Every Time?
It doesn’t matter if you’re lounging poolside or strolling the boardwalk, a great cover-up blends beauty and practicality, but what exactly should you be looking for to pick the best coverup?
01 Breathability
You’re spending the day in the sun or mostly in the sun, so airflow is critical. Look for cool beach cover-ups that have airy weaves and loose silhouettes that allow your skin to breathe. A cover-up dress for swimwear should feel like being wrapped up in a cool breeze on a summer day.
03 Quick-Dry Materials
You want to stay comfortable after an ocean or pool dip. Many of the best beach cover-ups feature moisture-wicking or quick-dry materials that prevent clinginess or discomfort.
02 Packability
A fantastic cover-up folds easily and compactly into your beach tote without adding massive weight or bulk. Lightweight fabrics like rayon and gauze make for space-saving travel companions, perfect for spontaneous day trips.
04 Flattering Shapes
From A-line tunics to cinched-waist caftans, the right fit always boosts confidence. A bathing suit dress cover-up offers a classic silhouette that’s both flattering and easy to wear from morning to happy hour.
PRO STYLE TIP
There are so many versatile, flattering styles in our curated Anthony’s Cover-Ups Collection to choose from, made just for women over 50!
BEAUTIFUL, BREEZY, AND COOL:
The Best Fabrics for Hot Weather Comfort
In Florida’s warm, tropical climate and often oppressive humidity, fabric matters just as much as the style. The cool beach cover-ups you want to reach for repeatedly are crafted from breathable, lightweight materials that keep you more comfortable in the heat.
Cotton
Soft, breathable, and always in style. Cotton is a timeless pick for the best swim cover-ups, particularly when thoughtfully woven into relaxed shirt dresses or gauzy caftans.
Rayon
Rayon has the stunning look of silk with the airiness of linen, and is another flawless choice for hot, bright, sun-soaked days. It drapes gorgeously and resists wrinkles, making it ideal for travel.
Gauze
Airy, textured, and ultra-light. Cotton gauze has a slightly crinkled appearance that gives your outfit laid-back charm while keeping you cool.
Terry Cloth
Look to terry cloth as a cozy alternative for a sporty, post-swim option. It’s absorbent and great for drying off super quick.
Mesh Blends
Add a bit of drama with mesh! These slightly sheer fabrics let your gorgeous suit peek through while still offering you coverage — great for the fashion-forward beachgoers!
From Beach to Brunch:
How to Style Your Cover-Ups with Ease
The right styling can turn your simple cover-up into a showstopping beach-to-dinner look. Here’s how to do it like you’re a pro with a few of our favorites that blend style with comfort:
☼ Sarongs: Tie them as skirts, dresses, or even scarves for a multi-use wardrobe essential.
☼ Button-downs: In Italian, a crisp, oversized shirt creates sprezzatura, or an “effortlessly-chic” style.
☼ Tunics: Breezy sleeves and bold prints, tunics double as cover-up dresses for swimwear that can be accessorized for an instant splash of sophistication.
How to Be Sun Savvy
Cover Up Without Hiding Your Style
Think layers and accessories! Slip your beach dresses and cover-ups over your swimsuit, then consider adding:
Statement sunglasses that complete the look and make you feel like Hollywood royalty.
Your favorite fun, floppy, or dramatic wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and personal style.
Straw totes that carry all your essentials while keeping those beach-lover vibes.
Need more inspo? Take a peek at this excellent video style guide for even more cover-up ideas you’ll love.
Step Out of the Shade and Into the Sun
From breathable fabrics to flattering fits and easy styling tips, the best swim cover-ups will help you get back to what you love doing—enjoying the summer! It’s your turn to bring the look you’ve always dreamed of to life!
Whether planning a grand tropical adventure or just refreshing your Florida year-round wardrobe, Anthony’s has elegant, comfortable, and stylish cover-up dresses, shirts, and swimwear designed for women over 50 in mind.
Celebrate your beautiful style, comfort, and personality, and discover our beach cover-up designs just for you. You deserve to feel beautiful everyday!
