From The Straits Times    |

Call it vacation fever, but when we are headed to a luxurious summer getaway, we have an almost relentless need to stock up on items that we most likely will never use again for practical reasons – ever. We can’t help it – a chic sarong or a tunic are great for vacations and even to the beach, but beyond that, they’re pretty much rendered impractical. However, certain cover-ups can double as outfits and solve your post-beach outfit woes – you just have to search for the right ones. These 5 chic cover-up styles and styling tips will serve you well on holiday, and off it too. Need more traveling / ensemble tips? Head over to read our interview with travel influencer Amelyn Beverly.

 

1. Dress up a beach co-ord with high heels

It’s no wonder why we love summer co-ords so much; not only do they take the mystery out of matching, they also make a major style statement in the height of vacation season. Choose a co-ord with a subtle print that’s fun (it IS summer, after all) and a dressy silhouette – such as long wide-leg pants matched with a cropped wrap top – to wear on top of your bikini. Dress it up with a pair of polished stiletto sandals for a chic look that’s appropriate for après-beach activities.  Here is our epic list of the coolest co-ords this summer, all for under $200.

Tropical co-ord, $24.94, at ASOS.

 

2. Pair beach robes with a slip dress

For classic billowy beach robes, dress it up by wearing a slip dress on the inside and leave it open like a kimono shawl. Another alternative is to tuck your one-piece into a pair of tailored high-waisted trousers underneath the cover-up for a pared-back, casual look.  If trousers are too hot in the heat, pick a pair of these high-waisted shorts that suit every occasion

Adriana Degreas Josephine Baker robe, $1,690; from Matches Fashion.

 

3. Go for printed playsuits

A playsuit with a summery tropical print is practically the perfect not-too-dressy go-to that’ll transition easily from beach fun to seaside cocktails quicker than you can say “One Pina Colada please!”. Choose a playsuit with sophisticated details, such as long bell sleeves or a well-tailored silhouette, and team it with a wicker bag for sightseeing along the city side.

Camilla Miranda’s Diary playsuit, $780; from Matches Fashion.

 

4. Choose wrap dresses in luxe fabrics like silk

Wrap dresses can be easily thrown on on top of your swimwear and look chic. But if you’re headed to an elegant dinner, a wrap dress in a luxe fabrication (think: silk or crepe de chine) will instantly transform your look into one that’s sophisticated and posh. Team with an opulent shoulder bag and embellished mules to complete your evening ensemble.

Rhode Resort Jagger dress, $659.25; from Net-a-porter.

 

5. For kaftans, avoid sheer see-through fabrics

Kaftans are a beachwear classic for a reason: they’re lightweight and billowy to allow for a gentle breeze against the skin even in the summer heat, and they’re simple in construction. However, kaftans in sheer fabrics like crochet-knits or too-thin twills can be rather hard to pull off if you’re not at the beach. For a pavement-appropriate look, look for the Seventies staple in raw linen or airy chiffon lined with an inner layer. Another tip is to opt for kaftans in a maxi style for a dressier, elegant look. For more picks, here are ten luxury resort dresses that will elevate your holiday snaps.

Mes Demoiselles kaftan maxi, $370.85; at Net-a-porter.

 

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