Fashion

8 Beach Coverups That Can Be Worn As Clothing So You Can Maximize Your Wardrobe Capabilities

A summer staple and beach goer's ultimate necessity is definitely the swimsuit coverup. But it can end up being more of a nuisance than anything else, as it usually comes off within five minutes of arriving at the beach. Then you have to change into another outfit after frolicking in the water, since most coverups are designed only be worn on sandy territories in the first place — meaning that not wearing a bathing suit underneath one isn't usually an option unless you want your birthday suit in the spotlight.

I, however, believe all coverups should be made with this dilemma in mind, since having to change into an entirely new outfit after having fun at the beach or pool is never fun. Plus, extra outfits take up a lot of extra space in your bag. As do the coverups themselves if you're going on a trip or you need to carry it around after your beach time is over.

If you want to wear coverups that can double as outfits and solve every single one of your woes (at least the post-beach-outfit ones, anyway) check out these eight options.

by Erin McKelle

The Double-Duty Dress

Marseilles Drop Waist Cover-Up Dress, $92, Nordstrom

This dress acts as both a coverup and a sundress, making it appropriate to wear both near the water and to dinner after your day at the beach. The tassels on this dress make it adjustable, so you can wear it more loosely with your bathing suit underneath and then tighten the neckline for dress-wear.

The Multi-Purpose Hoodie

Adidas Hoodie Cover-Up, $37, Nordstrom

This hoodie from Adidas can be worn by itself as a coverup and then for post-pool time, you can just add some shorts. This is also a creative coverup you can wear as day clothing when you’re not hitting the water, making it extremely functional.

The Matching Pants And Bikini Top

Way Out West Pant, $19, Swimsuits For All

Way Out West Twistfront Bikini, $40, Swimsuits For All

This matching pants and bikini top combination is perfect to wear to the beach and then together as an outfit. This is a really cute look for summer, especially if you like to show a little skin. The bikini top looks like a halter when the swimwear context is taken out, so you won’t have to worry about anyone noticing that detail.

The Nautical Romper

Fleece Hooded Romper, $59, Victorias Secret

This fleece romper is perfect to wear as a coverup, but can easily be warn sans bathing suit. The nautical colors make it a great option for the water and the material can also act as a towel, which is great if you’re still a little wet when you put it on.

The Versitle Tunic

Bold Stripe Tunic, $39, Venus

This flowing tunic is great for wearing poolside, but can easily transition into being a dress. Adding some accessories or even belting the tunic for everyday wear is a great way to differentiate your look and play with the endless shape possibilities of this item. It also has an adjustable tie strap in the back that you can use to tighten or loosen the fit of the dress, which makes it even better for pool-time usage.

The Hooded Dress

Blue Braided Chevron Knit Front Hoodie, $34, Woman Within

This hooded dress is long enough to wear out after your beach day, but playful enough to rock in the sand. The zipper gives you a lot of coverage control, as you can choose to reveal as much or as little as you want, making it great for double-use.

The Flirty Dress

Raviya Plus Size Tie-Dye Striped Dress Cover Up, $48, Macys

This dress is perfect for wearing both to the beach and afterwards, since it is short, but not too short, and also playful. Any good coverup is going to be playful and fun, and the design here clearly reflects that. It’s not too revealing as far as skin goes, though, which makes it great to wear as a dress for any occasion.

The Take 2 Mini-Dress

Fox Vapors Dress, $35, Swim Outlet

This dress is pretty short and flirty, but perfect to wear out in contexts not involving sand or water. The sides are pretty plunging, however, so you might want to pack a bralette or wear a bandeau-style bikini top underneath — if you want to prevent any nip-slips from happening outside of the beach (if you don’t, though, hey, no judgement!).

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