For years, denim shorts have been the default answer to the question of what to wear over a swimsuit. They’re practical, easy to throw on, and likely already sitting in your closet. But after spending time scrolling through Instagram, browsing new arrivals, and observing what stylish women are actually packing for vacation, one thing has become abundantly clear: swimsuit cover-ups have officially evolved beyond basic sarongs and oversized tees.
This season’s offerings are polished enough to wear beyond the beach and cool enough to rival your favorite summer outfits. Think crochet dresses that double as dinner attire, wide-leg pants that look effortlessly elegant with a bikini top, breezy matching sets, and elevated caftans that channel the kind of ease associated with a South of France getaway.
If you’re ready to retire your denim cutoffs—at least temporarily—these are the swimsuit cover-ups worth adding to your suitcase this summer.
Cover-Up Pants Are the New Beach Essential
If there’s one swim trend poised to dominate this summer, it’s cover-up pants. Airy, comfortable, and undeniably chic, they offer a more elevated alternative to denim shorts while still being just as easy to style.
Playa Lucila
Wide Leg Pants
Free People
Neptunes Net Sarong
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