Creative Cover-ups:
From Poolside to Party and From Beach to Brunch By Amanda Furbeck, Lehigh Valley Family Stylista
I
t seems that high fashion has hit the sand in the form of cleverly chic bathing suit coverups. Once upon a time, a bathing suit cover-up meant, at least to me and my once primitive fashion sense, an over-sized T-shirt or worse yet, a tie-dyed racer-back romper complete with matching scrunchy (I promise you don’t have to admit to wearing one of those!). Thankfully, the tie-dyed rompers have gone out with the tides. Way, way out. In their place are many more fashionable options to hide those itsy-bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polka dot bikinis and their underappreciated one-piece counterparts. Best of all, these very wearable items can take you from the boardwalk to brunch and from the pool-side to party time with little or no time to change in between.
Sheer dress. Sheer fabric is the hot trend of the sum-
mer, but its wearableness in real life is, well, hit or miss. This lightweight fabric is great for the beach or pool. Just choose a heavily embroidered sheer dress with a floaty skirt. The embroidery, along with extra layers and folds, will give you just a hint of skin. For party time, layer this feminine dress over top of a contrasting or nude sheath dress.
White button down with maxi skirt or denim shorts. There is something utterly casual about a
relaxed white button down with the sleeves rolled up to the elbow. A thick white shirt will give you a good bit of sun protection and makes the perfect swimsuit cover. Pack a rolled up, knit maxi skirt or a pair of comfy denim shorts into your beach bag to take you right from the boardwalk to brunch and shopping. For the latest trend, tie the shirt tails in the front rather than tucking them in. High heeled sandals and flip-flops both work great with this look, so choose whichever pair you love the most.
Tunic. A tunic is a traditional cover-up; I chose mine
in black, although I may come to regret this in the searing summer sun. A tunic keeps your shoulders and tummy well covered, but shows off a little leg. Pair them up with some denim cutoffs and wedge sandals for a relaxed lunch; throw on a pair of leggings and ballet flats if the weather suddenly turns cool. Add a belt to increase the coolness factor of this ensemble.
Maxi dress. The maxi dress is the go-to summer staple
this year. It’s easy to wear, and keeps you nicely covered, too. It’s free- floating nature makes it just right for pool-
20 July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com