Beachwear & Cover-Ups

A beach dress in this collection is usually less sheer and can be worn from beach to bar as an outfit on its own. Cover-ups tend to be made of mesh, crochet or chiffon, are more see-through and designed to be worn over a bikini or swimsuit. If you want something versatile for day plans after the beach, choose a less transparent knitted or cotton maxi dress; if you mainly want to layer over swimwear, go for mesh, lace or crochet styles.

Choose a matching set (top with shorts or skirt) if you like to mix and match pieces, adjust coverage, or prefer a more playful, resort look. A dress is better if you want something easy to slip on and off, or a more elevated, “ready for dinner” style. For walking around town or beach clubs, long knitted sets and skirt sets look polished, while mini dresses or simple cotton pieces are ideal for quick bikini cover-ups.

Cotton, linen, mesh, chiffon and crochet knits are ideal. Cotton and linen feel cooler and more breathable on the skin and are great when it’s very hot. Mesh, lace and chiffon dry quickly and work well as poolside cover-ups. Knitted pieces in light yarns are chic for beach clubs and sunsets, but can feel warmer in peak midday sun compared with cotton or linen.

Most knitted, ripped, crochet and mesh pieces in this category are semi-sheer to sheer and designed to show your swimwear underneath. Lighter colors like white, ivory and light blue tend to be more transparent. If you want more coverage, look for cotton or lined styles, or plan to wear nude or white undergarments or a bikini set that you’re comfortable showing.

For this type of beachwear, it’s usually safer to go with your regular size or one size up if you prefer a relaxed, floaty fit. Slim, bodycon knits and cutout styles will hug the body more, so size up if you don’t want them too tight. Oversized shirts, ruffled minis and flowy maxis are more forgiving and can often work across two sizes.

For beach clubs or resort dinners, choose longer maxi dresses, elegant matching skirt sets, or off-shoulder and backless pieces in champagne, ivory or classic white. Look for details like ruffles, lace, mesh overlays and cutouts that feel dressy but still beach-appropriate. Sheer mini dresses or very open crochet styles are better for daytime lounging than formal meals.

Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent and avoid wringing or twisting. Lay the item flat to dry so knitted and crochet pieces don’t stretch out of shape. For mesh, lace and chiffon, avoid rough pool edges and Velcro that can snag the fabric. Store delicate dresses and sets folded rather than hanging if they are heavy knits to prevent stretching.

White, ivory and light neutrals are classic and highlight your tan but can show sunscreen or makeup stains more easily. Darker shades like brown or black hide marks better and feel sleek. Brights and prints, such as orange, light green or leopard, stand out in photos and are great for vacation looks, but may be less versatile than neutrals if you pack light.

Yes, many of the styles can double as summer outfits. Cotton and linen shirt dresses, less-sheer knitted maxis and matching skirt sets work well with flat sandals or heels for city walks, lunches or casual evenings. For very sheer mesh, lace or crochet pieces, add a simple slip dress or nude body underneath to make them street-appropriate.