5 swimsuit cover-up styling tricks

Let the pool deck be your runway this summer. You’ve already made a splash with your swimsuit. Now, let’s talk cover-ups!

A perfect swimsuit cover-up will get you to-and-from your preferred watering hole (pool, river, beach, lake, child’s swimming lessons or wherever it is you cool off) in style and can even double as an outfit if you decide to grab a meal or make a grocery store run along the way.

Here are 5 styling tricks to get the most out of your swimsuit cover-up.

1. Try out a trend:

Miami Swim Week always gives a good sneak peek at swimsuit trends that are going to be hot for summer. High-waisted bikinis covering up tummy trouble spots as well as minimalist one-pieces and cut-out designs are dominating the swimwear trends. Cover-ups for 2016 are just as darling. Some worthwhile trends that are just as do-able on the runways as they are building sand castles with your kids? Floral prints, fringe details, dip-dyed fabrics and punchy corals (which happens to be a color that is universally flattering). We love the Out from Under Shibori Mini Cattan Cover-Up, $59, UrbanOutfitters.com

2. Make it a summer staple:

Get the most out of your swimsuit cover-up by shopping for one that could double as an outfit. A soft maxi dress can be tossed on over your swimsuit while you laze by the pool, but, add in some accessories, and it can be transformed into a Happy Hour look. Another trend that’s going strong this summer? Kimonos. Wear one over your bikini and then turn it into an outfit by pairing it with some white denim to allow the top’s colors to pop. Here’s a kimono we love for the pool and casual weekend wear: Catherine Malandrino “Catherine Alara” Tassle-Trim Kimono Top, $49.99, Macys.com

3. Buy now:

There are plenty of pool days left and Labor Day is a far ways off. So take advantage of retailer’s calendars and snap up your cover-ups (as well as other beach garb). Retailers are making way for back-to-school new arrivals and early fall clothes, so now is a good time to score deals on your swimwear. Find cover-ups and swim wear at Macy’s, Kohl’s, Target, JC Penney and other great retailers and earn Cash Back on your purchases from ShopAtHome.com.

4. Add in some UV protection:

For those long days out in the sun, your cover-up can serve a dual purpose and shade you from the sun. Look for rash guards and other swim tops that have built-in UPF protection to keep your skin safe from the sun’s rays. This performance-fitted top from Athleta comes with built-in UPF 50+ and is perfect for playing on the beach or catching waves. (There’s also a rear zip pocket to stash cash, keys and other essentials). Pacifica UPF Tee, starting at $34.99, Athleta.com

5. Shop your closet:

You may have some pieces in your closet that will work perfectly as cover-ups. Try throwing on an oversized oxford shirt or a chambray button-up shirt over your bathing suit, leaving the top unbuttoned.