Swimsuit Cover Up

Looking for the perfect piece to take your swimwear from sun-soaked to chic? A swimsuit cover up isn’t just a beach-day afterthought—it’s the key to leveling up your look and stretching your wardrobe beyond the pool. Whether you’re lounging in Santorini or poolside in Miami, a good cover up adds confidence, comfort, and a big dose of style.

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Why You Need A Swimsuit Cover Up (Or Two)

Swimsuit cover ups aren’t just about modesty—they’re a powerful styling tool. Whether you're slipping into a maxi cover up for an elegant poolside dinner or tossing on a lightweight button-down shirt to grab brunch, cover ups extend the wear of your swimwear and multiply your outfit options.

Unlike your average beach wrap, today’s cover ups are designed for impact. Think sheer mesh maxis, curve-hugging knits, and dramatic sleeve moments that blur the line between fashion and function. A well-chosen cover up lets you float between destinations—sand, sidewalk, or champagne brunch—without missing a beat.

Protective clothing like long-sleeve shirts, pants, and tightly woven beach cover-ups to reduce UV radiation exposure and combat skin cancer. 

And let’s be real: bathng suit cover ups are also about the vibe. A great one helps you feel put-together and confident, even when you’re barefoot with salty hair. That’s the Matte Collection way.

Different Types Of Swimsuit Cover Ups

From breezy mesh dresses to oversized shirts and matching skirts, swimsuit cover ups come in a range of styles to suit every mood and moment. A sheer long sleeve dress might be your go-to for poolside glamour, while a cropped tie top or sarong works perfectly for beach strolls or brunch. The key is choosing a cover up that balances your personal style with functionality—something that not only elevates your swimsuit but also makes you feel confident and put-together wherever the day takes you.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cover ups—and that’s a good thing. Your cover up should reflect your style, your destination, and your swimwear silhouette. 

Researchers recommends wearing dense, tightly woven fabrics and darker colors to block UV rays effectively, emphasizing clothing as the “most effective form of sun protection”

Here are a few of the most popular types:

Sheer Maxi Dress Cover Ups

These long, flowy cover ups for women are perfect for glam moments. Whether you’re wearing a high-cut one piece swimsuit or a bold monokini, a sheer maxi adds drama and elongates the frame. Pair it with wedges and gold jewelry for a pool party or resort look.

Shirt Dresses And Button Downs

The ultimate throw-on-and-go. These offer a slightly structured vibe and work great with any 3 piece bikini set. Want to dress it up? Add some jewelry and oversized sunglasses for effortless glam.

Wrap Skirts And Sarongs

Great for highlighting your waist while keeping things breezy. These pair beautifully with both bikini tops and sculpted cut out swimsuits. Bonus: they take up minimal space in your beach bag.

Knit And Crochet Styles

Soft, breathable, and body-skimming—these are perfect if you’re looking to blur the line between beachwear and streetwear. Think festival-ready fits that keep you cool while showing off the suit beneath.

Styling Tips For Swimsuit Cover Ups

What makes a cover up shine? Styling it like it’s part of your outfit—not just something you tossed on. The right accessories, shoes, and layers turn your cover up into the anchor of your beachside look.

Try a monochrome moment with a bold espresso or black suit and matching sheer cover up. Add gold jewelry, clear heels, and that big beautiful beach hat for full glam.

If you’re wearing a patterned swimsuit—like a safari print or jade snake—opt for a neutral cover up to balance the look. Go for breezy whites, warm nudes, or rich browns to keep it elevated but not overwhelming.

Another pro move: Treat your cover up like a statement dress. Toss on sandals and a crossbody bag, and you’re ready for brunch or a walk down the boardwalk. You’ll look styled and effortless—just how vacation should feel.

Accessories To Finish The Cover Up Look 

The right accessories can transform a bathing suit cover up from casual to iconic. A hat adds drama and sun protection all in one go. Layer on gold hoops, tinted sunnies, or a stacked bracelet set to bring personality to your poolside style.

Even a simple sheer dress or wrap can become an Instagram-worthy outfit when paired with the right shoes and bag. Think platform sandals, woven totes, or a clear crossbody for a fashion-forward vibe. When you mix great swimwear with thoughtful layering and accessories, your beachwear becomes a full outfit moment, not just something you throw on.

How To Choose The Right Swimsuit Cover Up

Choosing the best swimsuit cover up is about more than looks—it’s about comfort, fit, and lifestyle. Ask yourself where you’ll be wearing it, how much coverage you want, and how it complements your swimwear.

  • Consider Your Activity: Lounging by the pool? A sheer maxi or wrap skirt is perfect. Walking around a resort or heading to lunch? Go for a shirt dress or tunic-style cover up that gives you more coverage and structure. Add a black beach hat to complete the look. 
  • Think About Your Swimwear: If your swimsuit already has bold design features like cut outs or strappy backs, opt for a cover up that lets those shine. For example, a mesh or crochet cover up gives just the right amount of peek-through without hiding the look.
  • Match Your Mood: Feeling bold? Lean into patterns and saturated colors. Prefer a clean, minimal vibe? Solid nudes, whites, or blacks go with everything and let your accessories do the talking.

Whatever your vibe, Matte Collection’s cover ups are designed to match.

Matching Your Cover Up to Your Swimsuit 

When styling your swimsuit cover up, one of the easiest tricks is to match it to your swimsuit. A solid black one piece pairs beautifully with a sheer or mesh black cover up, creating a sleek, cohesive look. Printed swimsuits—like a snakeskin or bold tropical pattern—look stunning with a neutral-toned wrap or a color that picks up on the design’s details.

If you’re rocking a 3 piece bikini set, try a coordinated cover up that complements all the elements—like a tie-waist pant or breezy button-down that allows your top to peek through. Matching textures and tones makes your entire outfit feel elevated and thoughtfully styled. Want to go bold? Pair your cut out swimsuits with sharp-shouldered kaftans or oversized cover up sets for dramatic contrast.

Swimsuit Cover Ups That Double As Daywear 

One of the best things about a great swimsuit cover up is that it doesn’t have to stay poolside. Flowy shirt dresses, high-slit skirts, or cropped tops with matching trousers can take you from beach to errands to happy hour without ever changing your base. Look for breathable fabrics like mesh, cotton, and soft knits that are lightweight yet structured enough to hold their own beyond the sand.

A cute beach hat and metallic slides can instantly take a swimsuit cover up from vacation casual to summer dinner-party ready. Add sunglasses and a mini clutch, and you’ve got a head-to-toe outfit that’s equal parts beachy and fashion-forward. This kind of versatility is what makes investing in high-quality swim cover ups so worthwhile.

Shop the Best Swimsuit Cover Ups From Matte Collection

If you’re ready to level up your swim style, start by browsing Matte Collection’s full lineup of beach cover ups. Whether you want to keep things sheer and simple or bold and eye-catching, there’s a piece that matches your swimwear vibe. From lightweight maxis to figure-loving skirts and versatile shirt dresses, our designs are made to move with you. You’ll find everything in the swimsuit cover up collection. 

Our curated collection features on-trend fabrics, flattering fits, and sizes for every body. Each style is created to pair effortlessly with your favorite cut out swimsuits and one piece swimsuits. Whether you’re shopping for vacation, pool parties, or weekend lounging, you’ll find everything you need in one place.

Browse the entire cover up collection here and get ready to style every swim moment with confidence.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A swimsuit cover up is used to provide light coverage over your swimwear when you're not swimming. It adds a touch of style while keeping you comfortable and confident. Many are designed to transition your look from beach to street with minimal effort.

Yes, many swimsuit cover ups are designed to double as daywear. With the right styling—like sandals, accessories, and a handbag—you can wear them out to brunch or shopping. Look for shirt dresses, maxis, or wrap styles that feel more fashion-forward.

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like mesh, chiffon, and knit blends are popular for swimsuit cover ups. These materials dry quickly and feel comfortable in warm weather. They also allow your swimsuit to peek through, enhancing your whole look.

Your cover up doesn't have to match exactly but should complement your swimsuit's color or style. Neutrals go with everything, while bold prints can make a statement. Coordinated sets or monochromatic looks also work beautifully.

Some cover ups are designed to be sheer, offering a flirty glimpse of your swimwear. Others provide full coverage, depending on the design and material. Choose based on your comfort level and where you'll be wearing it.

Maxi dresses, tunics, and button-downs are among the most versatile styles. They can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. These silhouettes work with nearly every kind of swimsuit.