This summer, as beaches may not be an option, many are heading to their patios, yards, and fire escapes to enjoy the sun. And if you’re wearing a bathing suit, you’re going to want a cover up to go with it. If you need some inspiration, take a note from Vogue editors whose cover-up choices run the gamut. Take Fasdhion News Director Chioma Nnadi who has long been inspired by Peter Lindbergh’s late ’80s photographs of the likes of Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista frolicking on the beach in pert white men’s button downs. Her modern version of the classic look is Vaquera’s button-down that comes with a built-in vest.
Other options to consider? Executive Fashion Director Rickie De Sole prefers a charming embroidered cotton cover-up by Juliet Dunn that doubles as a dress while Associate Market Editor Naomi Elizee opts for a turquoise fringed wrap that can transform into a skirt. And for a simple choice, try a short-sleeve button-up. Associate Market Editor Madeline Fass rocks a twill shirt by Jacquemus that, according to her, evokes an “I’m on vacation” feel—even if you’re not.
Here, see the most stylish cover-ups for summer.
Rickie De Sole, Executive Fashion Director
I always look for a swim cover up that can double as a dress and this style from Juliet Dunn does the trick. I love the summery colors, loose fit, and feel-good print.
Alexandra Michler, Director, Fashion Development
I love this gingham dress as it is reminiscent of Arthur Elgort’s Portofino shoot from 1992. I like wearing something to the beach that can easily transition to sunset cocktails. Leave your hair salty, bring a dry swimsuit and a pair of earrings, and you are ready for a hot summer evening.
Madeline Fass, Associate Market Editor
I love the casual “I’m on vacation” feel of a printed short-sleeved button-down. I tend to stick to minimal, solid color triangle bikinis and the shirt’s oversized fit complements those as well as my shell and pearl jewelry, sunglasses, and a bucket hat. Plus, I love the versatility of this style of shirt since it can be worn way beyond the beach. They look just as good with bikini bottoms as it does with a pair of shorts and jeans.
Lilah Ramzi, Features Editor
I’ve been wearing a white wrap skirt with tie-closures to and from the beach. And when styled correctly with a black one-piece swimsuit, it’s all very Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief and what more can you ask for, really?
Madeline Swanson, Accessories Editor
A scarf-turned-wrap-skirt is always my method of choice for beach dressing, and this botanical-inspired pareo is the perfect match for the simple red one-piece I’ve been waiting to debut when I hit the dunes this summer.
Rachel Besser, Market Editor
When it comes to swimsuit cover ups, I like full-coverage options that can give my skin a reprieve from the sun without going inside. This oversized linen button down and corresponding pair of linen trousers can be worn as a set or as separates depending on the day. Plus, linen is breathable even on the hottest days.
Julie Tong, Commerce Editor
For me, the best beach cover ups double as outerwear, too. This linen minidress is one I would easily sport to the park as well as to the beach. The concealed buttons offer a sleek minimalist look that I love and will pair well with my equally simple, favorite black Birkenstocks.
Willow Lindley, Accessories Director
I love this Everlane shirtdress, which is exactly that: a shirt and a dress. It’s perfect for the beach as a cover-up, or you can wear it as a cute dress or unbuttoned over a pant and top. It also dries quickly, travels well, and even comes in a linen version for summer. Plus, I like buying basics with some level of sustainability considered.
Chioma Nnadi, Fashion News Director
I’ve always loved those photos Peter Lindbergh shot for Vogue back in the late ’80s of the supers—Christy, Linda, et al.—frolicking on the beach in white button-downs and bikini bottoms. I’ve tried that cover-up styling trick myself, and it’s actually pretty flattering and much easier to pull off than you’d think. My favorite button-down right now is actually pink! It’s Vaquera’s Vest Button Down (as the name suggests, it comes with this ingenious built-in vest) and I plan on wearing it all summer long over my bikinis .
Steff Yotka, Fashion News Editor
The easiest cover up is a pair of men’s swim shorts—already waterproof and usually designed with the one thing all women’s swimwear is missing: pockets!
Mai Morsch, Associate Market Editor
I am a huge fan of everything from Ciao Lucia and at the top of my wishlist is this simple white beach dress. I can picture it looking equally chic with flip-flops and a swimsuit as with a pair of heels for an at-home soirée.
Naomi Elizee, Associate Market Editor
I have this sarong from Gabriel for Sach in brown and it’s the ultimate beach cover-up as it can be worn in multiple ways. I’m already planning on getting it in this blue/green colorway!
Emily Farra, Senior Fashion News Writer
I’ve been at my parents’ place in Southwest Florida for 11 weeks now, which is about 10.5 longer than planned. Needless to say, I’m running out of clothes. Lately I’ve been wearing my dad’s Ralph Lauren oxfords everywhere, sleeves rolled up. The longer length makes them excellent cover-ups, too.
