5 Ways to Style Bohemian Beach Cover-Ups
Bohemian beach cover-ups are no longer just for the beach - they’re versatile pieces that can be styled for brunch, festivals, dinners, and more. Here’s a quick guide to making the most of them:
- Beach to Brunch: Pair loose-fitting cover-ups with bold earrings, a wide-brim hat, and sandals. Add denim shorts or pants for a structured look.
- Swimsuit Pairing: Match one-piece swimsuits with kaftans or kimonos and bikinis with sheer, embroidered cover-ups for a balanced, boho vibe.
- Dinner Ready: Transform your cover-up into an evening outfit with neutral wedges, a statement belt, and layered gold jewelry.
- Festival Look: Use crochet cover-ups, layered accessories, and practical footwear like sneakers or waterproof boots to create a relaxed, boho aesthetic.
- Pool & Resort Wear: Choose lightweight fabrics like cotton or chiffon and accessorize with sun hats, coral necklaces, and espadrilles.
Quick Fabric Guide:
| Time of Day | Recommended Fabric | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Cotton | Beach activities, brunch |
| Afternoon | Chiffon | Pool lounging, shopping |
| Evening | Silk or Linen | Dinner, beachside events |
With the right styling, bohemian cover-ups can take you from the beach to any occasion effortlessly.
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1. Beach to Brunch Style
Turn your beach cover-up into a stylish brunch outfit with a few simple tweaks.
Start with a loose-fitting button-up shirt dress that has pockets. Wear it unbuttoned over your swimsuit for a relaxed vibe. These start at just $15.99 [3].
As one expert puts it:
"Kaftans can be put with just about anything! After all, they are just another dress and you can elevate or dress down as much as you like!" [5]
For materials, go for linen, cotton, or chiffon. These fabrics hold their shape well even after a day at the beach. Consider options like the Kos Resort wrap dress ($140) or the Breezy cinch-front Chelsea 28 cover-up dress ($39) [3].
To complete your look, add:
- Bold statement earrings
- A wide-brim hat
- Comfortable sandals or ankle boots
- A shoulder bag
- Layers like the Jamie Embroidered Duster ($45) or Sierra Mixed Print Kimono ($39) [2]
- Denim shorts or fitted pants for a more structured look
Bohemian prints - paisley, florals, or tie-dye - are great for hiding any wrinkles and add a touch of charm for outdoor cafés or beachfront dining [4][6].
If you're on a budget, an adjustable strap maxi dress starting at $18.99 is a smart choice. It's perfect for lounging by the beach or grabbing a casual bite [3].
2. Swimsuit Pairing Guide
Match your swimsuits with stylish cover-ups to create that effortless boho vibe. Let’s dive into how different swimsuit styles pair beautifully with flowing cover-ups.
For one-piece swimsuits, go for kaftans or kimonos with contrasting patterns. A great option? A Tommy Bahama midi dress cover-up with a handkerchief hem - it adds movement and a pop of style to a simple, solid-colored suit [8].
Bikinis shine when paired with lightweight, sheer cover-ups featuring delicate embroidery. For a flattering combo, check out the La Blanca collection, which blends flowing cover-ups with swimsuits designed to create balanced proportions [8].
Want to take your bohemian look up a notch? Try these ideas:
- Layering crochet bikini tops with high-waisted, printed bottoms [7].
- Sheer, embroidered cover-ups over solid-colored swimwear [7].
- Pattern mixing, like florals with geometrics or paisley with stripes.
- Choosing organic cotton or linen cover-ups for a natural, breezy feel [1].
If sun protection is a priority, opt for beach dresses with longer hemlines and loose-fitting sleeves. For a versatile beach look, KinkiSwim reversible swimsuits pair wonderfully with luxury kaftans, blending style and practicality.
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3. Dinner and Drinks Ready
Turn your beach cover-up into a chic evening outfit with a few simple tweaks and thoughtful accessories.
Start by swapping your beach sandals for neutral wedges or espadrilles. They instantly elevate your look. For a versatile option, try the ViX Paula Hermanny Lilly Detail Long Cover-Up, which transitions effortlessly from lounging by the pool to dining out in style.
Add a statement belt - think woven raffia or leather - to give your outfit structure and a polished silhouette.
Jewelry is key to completing the transformation. Consider these options:
- Oversized metallic earrings for a bold touch
- Layered gold necklaces to add depth
- Stacked bangles in warm tones for a sophisticated vibe
"With the right tricks, you can easily transition your beach look into something ready for a casual dinner or drinks with friends - without needing to run back to your hotel room for a complete outfit change." - Beachables [9]
The right bag can also make a big difference. Opt for a sleek clutch or a crossbody bag in neutral tones that work well with bohemian patterns or solid-colored cover-ups.
For an extra layer, try a lightweight kimono for added flair, or a tailored blazer if you prefer a more structured look. Both options work beautifully, especially over plain cover-ups.
Finally, pay attention to fabric. Lightweight cotton or rayon are excellent choices - they’re breathable and maintain their shape throughout the day. KinkiSwim's luxury kaftans, made from these materials, are perfect for taking you from beachside relaxation to evening elegance.
4. Music Festival Look
Turn your cover-up into a festival-ready outfit that channels bohemian vibes. Festival fashion is all about mixing style with practicality, making these cover-ups a perfect choice. This layered, relaxed look is a staple in resort wear.
Start with a standout piece. Nasty Gal's crochet cover-ups (priced between $15 and $106) are breathable and stylish options that fit the vibe perfectly[10].
Next, think about footwear that suits both comfort and style. Here are a few solid options:
- Thick-soled sneakers for all-day dancing
- Waterproof boots to handle unexpected weather
- Wedge sandals for a little extra height in the summer heat[14]
Accessories bring the whole look together. Layer long stone necklaces and stack rings with turquoise or silver for a boho touch[12]. Add a wide-brimmed hat to combine sun protection with style.
For layering, try KinkiSwim's organic cotton kaftans or grab a sarong-style cover-up from Etsy (priced $3–$85)[11]. These can be styled in multiple ways:
- As a skirt for daytime sets
- As a wrapped top when it cools down
- As a draped shawl for evening performances
Complete the look with a lightweight fringe bag and bold jewelry like belly chains to embrace the boho aesthetic[12][13].
5. Pool and Resort Wear
Step up your poolside fashion game with lightweight, stylish cover-ups that balance comfort and elegance. These pieces aren’t just for lounging - they easily transition from the pool to casual dining or even festivals.
KinkiSwim’s organic cotton kaftans are a perfect pick for long, sunny days. Their flowing designs are great for swimming breaks and laid-back resort meals. You can style them effortlessly with:
- A wide-brimmed sun hat for extra sun protection
- Coral statement necklaces to add a beachy touch
- Comfortable espadrilles that are both practical and chic
When choosing fabrics, think about your plans for the day. Here’s a quick guide:
| Fabric Type | Ideal For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Poolside lounging | Breathable, dries quickly |
| Chiffon | Evening outings | Light, elegant drape |
| Mesh | Beach activities | Sheer, perfect for layering |
Once you’ve picked the right fabric, take your look to the next level with smart accessories.
For example, transform your cover-up into a head wrap for a polished, practical style. Pair it with gold earrings and a neat bun to keep your hair protected from chlorine or salt water while staying effortlessly chic.
If you’re moving between the pool and other activities, go for paisley or floral print cover-ups. These versatile pieces can be styled in several ways:
- Wear it open over your swimsuit for quick pool access
- Add a belt to cinch the waist for a relaxed lunch look
- Pair it with resort pants for an easy evening outfit
With a little creativity, your poolside wear can work for any part of your resort day.
Conclusion
Mastering bohemian cover-ups can transform your beach wardrobe into a versatile collection of resort-ready outfits. By mixing solid colors with bold patterns and choosing lightweight fabrics, you can create multiple looks that easily transition from day to night.
Here’s a quick guide to picking the right fabrics for different times of the day:
| Time of Day | Recommended Fabric | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Morning/Daytime | Cotton | Beach activities, brunch |
| Afternoon | Chiffon | Pool lounging, shopping |
| Evening | Silk or Linen | Dinner, beachside events |
Accessories are key to completing the look. Items like wooden bangles, shell necklaces, and macramé bracelets add a natural, bohemian vibe while staying practical for beach settings [16].
Stick to earthy tones that can be mixed across outfits. A well-chosen kaftan is incredibly versatile - it can double as a dress, tunic, or even a head wrap. When it comes to prints, balance is everything. Combine larger patterns with smaller ones to achieve visual harmony without overwhelming your style.
"The beach is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation. When you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows. Your vibe attracts your tribe, after all" [15].
This quote perfectly sums up the spirit of bohemian beachwear: feeling comfortable while expressing your individuality.
To make your wardrobe last, invest in durable, breathable fabrics that can handle sun, sand, and salt water. These materials not only keep you comfortable but also ensure your outfits transition smoothly from casual beachside moments to evening events.
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