Today’s guest blogger is our stylist friend, Sukey Johnson, who stops by a few times throughout the year to fill us in on must-know tips that are always perfectly timed. Today’s post is just that, as it’s about coverups. And if you are like me, these past weekends proved that I don’t like mine so I’m on the hunt!
How were your first couple weekends at the pool? Did you notice any unique bathing suit cover-ups and wish you had one too? Let’s pick up where we left off from my swimsuit suggestions in April when I was begging you to give a little extra thought and effort to what you plan to cover your suits with all summer. After all, none of us are truly that anxious to be nearly naked at the pool or beach. Personally, I have not frequented the gym nearly enough, and this past weekend found that I lingered in my favorite cover-up as long as possible, surrendering only when I began to sweat and couldn’t listen to my boys whine and beg me to swim another second!
(Just click on any picture for more info about each cover-up.)
Your cover-up can be a simple one made to do what its name says: cover you up. Many versions are now made with fabric that has SPF. Some are a bold color or print and are perfect over a simple suit. Cover-ups provide the perfect opportunity to go outside your comfort zone, too, allowing you to get away with choices you otherwise might not consider. Try some sexy linen pants with a cute drawstring waist or a wrap dress with a plunging neckline.
I love a cover-up I can throw on for the pool and also sneak to the grocery store or to the neighbors’ for a spontaneous dinner wearing. But everyone deserves a less practical one too. As you’ll see below, I found plenty options for all your needs!
A few reminders:
- Check labels for fabrics. Cotton is preferable for the heat and for easy washing. Other fabric blends like (gasp) polyester can make you extra hot. And, even with 100% cotton, be careful: I ordered cotton cover-up I thought I’d love from Boden, but it was too heavy a weight for our southern heat.
- Stay away from anything that looks like a bathrobe or your man’s night shirt. Just because it’s a cover-up doesn’t mean it should be gigantically over-sized or potato sack-ish. That look will make you appear heavier than you are.
- Lastly, be careful with cover-ups that are too sexy for the grocery store that leave people wondering if you’re catching a plane to Vegas or if you’re still in your nightie. This one could be a dress, but there is a hood on the back, which clearly makes it a cover up. That’s a defining detail you need so folks in the produce aisle at Publix will stop wondering…and staring!
Here are some great options:
Who doesn’t love something nautical or patriotic in the summer? Blue and white are a classic and it’s easy to add some red flip flops, as well. This is a crisp and classic look and the v-neck is very flattering. Love this!
This slub dress from Lilly Pulitzer can easily be a cover-up that really does get you from pool, to grocery, to drinks and back home again! $88. Available in 11 colors.
Everything But Water: Luli Fama’s Pachanga Maxi dress $124. OK, the long dress is a little over the top for a cover-up, but it’s pretty and fun!
Belted? Well, who doesn’t like a cinched waist? But a belt makes me worry I’m going to get too hot or lose it. I can hardly keep up with goggles, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Now my belt too? Ugh. I’d rather a hidden cinched waist:
Have fun looking. There are a lot of great options out there.
Happy summer!
Thanks, Sukey! For more options on cover-ups, see StyleBlueprint Atlanta’s post:
Sukey is a wardrobe stylist based in Nashville who writes for StyleBlueprint throughout the year. She is available to help you clean out that closet, shop with you or for you and to create a list of must-haves! She can be reached at [email protected].
