8 Beach Outfits That Aren't A Bikini With A Cover Up & Belong In Your Vacay Bag

If you are hitting the waves then its a no-brainer that the first piece of clothing you need is swimwear, duh! Get a stylish solid-coloured one that can double down as a bodysuit when you are not in the water. Skip the boring cover up for a linen shirt for a strong layering game, and team it with a pair of flip-flops because you would definitely want to stay comfortable when you are walking on the sand.

Who says you can't wear black to the beach? You absolutely can if you make it look more summery and chic. We found this cute swim top that looks super stylish with the sleeves and the cut out plunge neck detailing. Team this with a pair of sheer black trousers or high-waisted shorts if you completely want to ditch wearing something full-length for bottoms for a lunch date on the beach. Accessorise the look with a pair of sunglasses (read: style plus utility) during the day, and switch it up with a cute clutch for the night.

The best beach outfit idea is to wear a cute dress that's equal parts fashionable and comfortable. The breezy silhouette is a perfect pick for the beach as its flowy and breathable. While a plain one with a plunge or halter neck is a safe choice, we would suggest banking on the 'soft girl' aesthetic by adding a few florals and feminine accessories like gladiators and hoops to dress it up for a perfect beach babe look. 

Sarong skirts have become the trend for beach outfits since the past two years or so, thanks to fast fashion brands like Zara for making the concept accessible to all (and giving the basic cover up a new life as a proper skirt). Sarong skirts look super cute and beachy, while the prints they come in are usually quite tropical making them a must-have in your beach vacation wardrobe if you enjoy trend-dressing. Simply pair it with a plain tank top or bodysuit and a pair of flats for a model-off duty look.

Nothing speaks beach outfit better than a linen on linen look. Not only is linen a suitable choice in terms of breathability in the fabric, the grainy rustic feel and look of it instantly gives a smart-casual touch to the look. Go for a linen shirt and shorts co-ord or find a linen romper like the one we found to make a fashion statement. Since linen is considered to be more of a daywear fabric, a pair of sunnies and a cute sandals would be great add-ons to the look.

Pro-tip: Can't get enough of rompers, check out our list here.

Summer and beach equals to lots of colour so it only makes sense you bring out the vibrant clothes that have been collecting dust in the closet and let them have a beach day. Think bright pinks, yellows, oranges, blues and greens in light fabrics like cotton or linen. Either go for a breezy co-ord if you wish to be comfortable while travelling from one beach to another, or opt for a midi if you want a slightly more sophisticated look for a brunch date with your vacay buddy.

If your idea of a day at the beach involves a run, a game of volley ball, or virtually anything active then it is absolutely essential that you pack one or two activewear looks and because you are on the beach, your everyday sports bra and yoga pants just won't cut it! Go for a printed pair of leggings with a matching sports top or opt for a comfortable pair of shorts over your bathing suit.