Warm weather is finally here, and that means it's time to start hitting the pool — or the beach — if you're planning a vacay this summer. Of course, that also means it's time to pick out a swimsuit and even a new cover-up for those of us who want to go beyond an oversized T-shirt or wrapping a towel around ourselves. The good news? Celebrity beach fashion is already happening, and some of our favorite stars are serving up some major inspiration for what to wear for a day in the sun.
The celebs showing off their looks are all over the map, from the Kardashians to Reese Witherspoon, helping us find something we're into, no matter what vibe we're going for. And best of all, a lot of these looks are easy enough to re-create using what we already have at home in our closets.
It's totally possible to look sexy with your suit covered — at least, partially covered, in most of these cases. Trying to figure out your summer beach wardrobe? Here are 19 celebrity cover-up looks that are totally steal-worthy.
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A Simple Button-Down
$80
from
Summersalt
This is a cover-up look that couldn't possibly be any easier! To pull some Gabrielle Union vibes on your next pool day, just grab an oversized button-down shirt, put it on over your swimsuit, and you're good to go. Bonus points if you find one that coordinates with your suit!
Try this cover-up from Summersalt that's both flattering and functional. The loose and relaxed fit allows for easy movement and provides a cooling effect in warm weather. The button-down front and collared neckline add a touch of refinement, allowing you to effortlessly transition from the beach to a beachside cafe or poolside party.
Don't Forget the Hat
When Bachelor star Lauren Luyendyk was expecting twins (her second and third children!) she pulled out all the stops on her babymoon. She and her bump look super cute covered up with this sheer shirt and matching bucket hat. (Yep, that early 2000s accessory is back in style again.)
Try this Lululemon Wide Brim Logo Bucket Hat made from high-quality materials that offer durability and comfort. The lightweight and breathable fabric keep you cool and comfortable even on hot summer days, while the moisture-wicking properties help keep sweat at bay, ensuring you stay dry and fresh.
Lounge Away
$95
from
Good American
The Kardashians have always been on top of it when it comes to swimwear — it seems like they're always by the water! Here, Khloé is actually in the water, looking incredible in all neutrals. And because this sheer cover-up is from her Good American affordable fashion line, it's even easier to snag her look.
The Goddess Robe is designed to provide a comfortable and elegant fit, allowing you to feel effortlessly glamorous. The tie closure cinches at the waist, accentuating your curves and creating a feminine silhouette.
Palm Springs Chic
$138
from
Lake Pajamas
Another Kardashian who has a strong cover-up game? Kourtney. Here she is in a photo taken on a disposable camera (throwback!) during a family trip to Palm Springs in 2020. The stripes contrast so well with her swimsuit. She would totally fit in if she relocated there for good!
This cover-up from Lake is nearly identical to the one Kourtney's wearing. The Marnie Caftan is designed with a loose and flowing silhouette, providing a comfortable fit for various body types. The wide sleeves add an extra level of sophistication, and the V-neckline adds a subtle hint of allure. The caftan falls just above the knee, allowing for easy movement and a relaxed feel.
Got Milk?
Talk about a throwback! Hailey Bieber is reminding us of those '90s throwback ads with her "Got Milk?" T-shirt, which is doing the job just fine. In fact, adding an oversized graphic tee to your look is a great way to cover up, especially in a pinch.
We found one on Etsy inspired by Bieber's look!
Just the Top
It would be rude to give Kourtney and Khloé fashion props without also talking about Kim. Here's one of her most unique cover-up looks: simply layering over the top of her suit instead of the bottom. This is more about style than function, for sure, but it would make for some killer Instagram photos.
We turned to Kim's SKIMS line for the perfect cropped swim T-shirt that provides UV protection, shielding skin from harmful rays while you enjoy the outdoors. The longer length and short sleeves offer additional coverage for your shoulders and upper arms, allowing you to feel confident and comfortable.
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Keeping It Cool
$68
from
Free People
Lizzo is already an icon for so many reasons, but here, she said she was taking a page out of Rihanna's book, and we can definitely see how this would be something RiRi would wear! The colorful patterned shirt, the backwards baseball cap — it's all so effortlessly cool and easy to re-create.
The Beach Party Vacay Shirt from Free People is a stylish option for capturing those cool vibes. It's made from cotton and works well for an after-beach dinner or drinks.
Matching With Mom
Price may vary
from
Caden Lane
If you're planning to hit the pool with your kids (and let's be real — if you're a mom, there's no way they'd let you go without them), think about coordinating your cover-up to their swimsuit for adorable photos like this one. A beachy, strapless dress similar to Chrissy Teigen's would work so well.
The Caden Lane Matching Family Swimsuits are available in a variety of styles, including one-pieces, bikinis, and swim trunks, ensuring everyone can find the perfect fit. The thoughtful design features adjustable straps, elastic waistbands, and secure closures, providing a customizable and secure fit for each family member.
Yellow's Anything But Mellow
$140
from
Anthropologie
It's not news that Kate Hudson looks good in a swimsuit — those who follow her on Instagram know she's always sharing her workouts (usually with daughter Rani Rose in tow). But this color combo? Yep, we're living for it. A solid, neon bikini with a patterned cover-up is total perfection.
The Maeve Star Cutwork Mini Kaftan is totally something we can see Kate wearing. The standout feature of this kaftan is the mesmerizing star cutwork design. Delicate star-shaped patterns adorn the fabric, creating a captivating visual appeal. The intricate cutwork adds depth and texture, allowing glimpses of sun-kissed skin to shine through while also providing a breezy and cooling effect.
With Scaly Friends
Shawn Johnson couldn't have looked happier in this photo from her babymoon to Cabo San Lucas when she was expecting her second child. Even though we think it's because of the iguanas, it could also be because she looks super cute in her black cover-up. It's simple, it matches everything, and it's easy to throw on — what's not to love?
This Cupshe Ruffled Cover-Up Dress is an affordable and chic option for the beach or pool.
Meditation on the Beach
When you're J.Lo, you look good no matter what — but even with her natural hair and a make-up free face, Jennifer is killing it in this video of herself meditating on the beach. More than that, though, we can't help but notice how fabulous that cover-up is. Anyone trying to add a little spice to their look, take note!
This Kimono Beach Cover Up from Venus has enough flare and function to hand in J.Lo's closet for sure. And because it's just under $40 on sale, it can hang in yours as well.
Going Wild
Leopard print is very in right now, so it's no surprise that Jessica Simpson was on top of that trend with her one-piece. But we really love how she combined patterns here with her floral cover-up. Of course, Jessica does design clothes, so she knows all the style secrets.
Right now, Old Navy has flowy floral swim cover-ups in a slip-on style that's comfy and chic. It even has a leopard version.
All About Dots
Starting at
$22.38
from
Everything about this look is fire — especially those sunglasses! Here, Priyanka Chopra is lounging in the sun in a sheer black and white polka dot cover-up. Unfortunately, we can't see the whole thing in this photo, but because this is Priyanka we're talking about, we'll assume the bottom half looks just as good.
You can find a similar full-length version on Amazon that comes in a black and white polka dot print as well as 21 other colors and patterns.
Just for Show
This pic from 2020 isn't too long after Jenna Dewan and fiancé Steve Kazee welcomed their baby boy, Callum, and she's glowing. Her pool day outfit doesn't hurt, either. Her cover-up is so sheer that it's not really covering up much of anything, but paired with her suit, she's managed to create an entirely dreamy summer look.
This sheer cover-up from Zaful is the perfect summer staple to capture those carefree beach vibes.
Pretty in Gingham
$125
from
Draper James
Reese Witherspoon always looks adorable, and pink is definitely her color — just ask Elle Woods. This preppy gingham cover-up is the same color as her swimsuit, and yep, it's from her own label, Draper James. For those who love Reese's brand of summer style (and bright colors), this look is perfect.
Although the exact cover-up Reese is wearing is no longer available, we found another airy Draper James cover-up that gives off those Southern, stylish vibes.
Keeping It Colorful
In the summer of 2022, Chrissy took one of her last vacations before she'd officially become a mom of three and welcome baby Esti into the family. She's always been all about bright colors, and we love the way she paired a solid colored swimsuit with this brightly patterned cover-up.
We love this Seaside Retreat Maxi Cover-Up from Lulu's in bright coral and magenta that features adjustable straps and maxi-length silhouette.
Barely There
It's no surprise that just about every member of the Kardashian-Jenner family is giving us all the cover-up inspo! Kendall wore a sheer navy blue cover-up over a swimsuit that was the same color and looked super chic in the process. There are plenty of matching sets out there that would allow us to rock this look.
This sheer shirtdress is a more modest take on Kendall's version but equally as fashionable.
Honeymoon Vibes
Sofia Richie — now Sofia Richie Grainge — did not come to play when she packed her beachwear for her honeymoon with new husband Elliot Grainge. If you're going for a boho vibe on the beach this summer, a similar crocheted look will do the trick.
This nearly identical crochet cover-up is available at Amazon for $33. We love the flattering high waist and sexy side slit.
Sarong Season
Yes, Lizzo is one of those celebs who made this list twice — but after seeing this, can't you understand why? Not only do we adore her swimsuit, but we really love the sarong, too. This kind of cover up is more an accessory than actually covering up, so grab a sarong if you want to flaunt what you've got.
These short sheer cover-ups from Amazon come in a two-pack so you can mix and match your favorite colors.
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