Outfit Details:

 Miguelina Coverup, Spell & The Gypsy Swimsuit (almost sold out, similar here), Mariella Vilar Bag, Cult Gaia Earrings, Le Specs Sunglasses

When I traveled to Miami for my sister’s bachelorette weekend, I packed almost as many colorful swimwear cover-ups as I did swimsuits! We wanted to make the most of Miami’s beautiful weather and scenery, so our itinerary was full of time spent on the water. From riding on a boat, to sipping fruity drinks by the pool, to lounging on the beach, we had the best time soaking up the sun and celebrating the beautiful bride-to-be. I’m taking it a little easier these days, so I knew I’d occasionally be trading laps on the jet-ski for a comfy spot on a deck chair. Having some beautiful cover-ups on hand that I could throw on over my suit kept me comfortable throughout our busy, fun-filled weekend.

My favorite cover-ups easily double as dresses that I can wear around town. Pieces that serve multiple purposes make it so much easier to put together an outfit on the fly if an unexpected opportunity arises, like an impromptu cocktail hour (mocktails, in my case—I loved drinking virgin piña coladas on this trip!) or a last-minute restaurant reservation. After all, I’m always on the lookout for glowing recommendations from locals when I’m traveling, and am quick to trade my plans for their suggestions if it will create a more memorable experience. I usually opt for dress-style cover-ups for that very purpose, and, just like with my everyday clothes, I keep an eye out for feminine silhouettes and unique details. Case in point: you may remember this rainbow rickrack dress I wore recently; it’s technically a cover-up, but I loved wearing it out for a date night! In Miami, I spent one day in a sunny yellow Miguelina kaftan. Even though I had a different outfit ready for dinner, I easily could have added a swipe of coral lipstick, changed my shoes, and worn the kaftan out for the evening.

On the other hand, when I knew I’d be spending most of my time in and out of the water, I opted for a simpler cover-up option: an India Amory pareo. I got one in a different print for each woman attending the bachelorette weekend and they were a hit. Since they easily double as shawls or even beach blankets, they are equally as versatile as my dress cover-ups, but in a different way!

Left: Muzungu Sisters Dress, Right: Miguelina Coverup, Mariella Vilar Bag, India Armory Pareo

Paloma Blue Wrap Cover-Up

When it comes to beach-to-brunch dresses, this is one of my favorite options, thanks to its elegant silhouette and feminine floral pattern. It also comes in a golden yellow print.

9Seed Ruffle Mini Dress

For a short and sweet cover-up, I love 9Seed’s ruffle mini dresses, especially this orchid-hued one. Their pieces are extremely lightweight and dry quickly, so they’re a must-have when packing for the beach.

Striped Two-Piece Set

Even though I usually opt for dress cover-ups, I find this striped top and pants pairing so charming. It has a little bit of a retro feel, which I love embracing in swimwear.

Muzungu Sisters Dress

Muzungu Sisters makes the most stunning, lightweight styles that go from the poolside to dinner effortlessly. Since they work perfectly for a growing bump, I just ordered this one and can’t wait to wear it throughout the summer.