If you're planning your summer holiday, there's no better time to give your vacation closet a refresh. The kaftan is the ultimate beach cover-up - the practical accessory that never goes out of style. You might be a fan of the sarong or the humble chuck-on dress for your 'I'm just going to the bar' cover-up but I'm here to help you find one that you'll love year after year.
Right now, beach cover-ups are trending (it's a Pucci summer I keep being told) - and whether you prefer a staple black kaftan or a sparkly statement sarong - they’re a great way to feel comfortable and some even elevate your swimwear. That’s why I've searched high and low to find the best beach cover-ups to shop to upgrade your beach looks this summer, no matter what age you are.
- Kaftan editor's pick: M&S Palm Tree Kaftan, £45 / $88.99
- Beach shirt editor's pick: Boden Longline Linen Beach Shirt, £74.25 / $120
- Beach co-ord editor's pick: H&M Cotton Beach Shirt & Shorts, £22.99 / $29.99
- Maxi dress editor's pick: NAIA Beach 'Pelosa' Dress, £165 / $230
- Long sleeved cover-up editor's pick: Aspiga 'Itisha' Striped Beach Dress, £75 / $110
- Multiway option editor's pick: Pour Moi Zoey Shirred Multiway Dress, £47
Because honestly, who says beach style has an age limit? For women over 50, 60, or even 70, looking and feeling fabulous by the sea is all about confidence - and a great beach cover-up might just give you that. Whether you're strolling the boardwalk, enjoying lunch at a beachside café, or simply lounging under a wide-brimmed sunhat, the right cover-up can be both chic and practical.
Today’s cover-ups go far beyond the sarong. They offer sophistication, coverage, and a flattering fit while keeping things breezy. Think flowing kaftans, lightweight maxi dresses, stylish tunics, and even elegant linen shirt dresses. These pieces provide comfort and sun protection while elevating your entire look.
Celebrities wearing beach cover-ups
It’s no surprise that many style icons in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are redefining beach fashion. Jane Seymour, now in her 70s, has long been celebrated for her elegant resort looks - often seen in flattering kaftans or classic one-pieces paired with sheer wraps.
© InstagramJoan Collins also proves that glamour doesn't retire. Her love of dramatic sunglasses and printed cover-ups on holiday is a lesson in embracing your signature style, no matter the decade.
© InstagramMartha Stewart, Kris Jenner and Oprah all champion graceful ageing, and are three examples of effortless style. These ladies are often seen enjoying tropical getaways in breezy kaftans and eye-catching prints that perfectly balance coverage and style.
© InstagramWhat to Look for in a Great Cover-Up
When shopping for a beach cover-up, the focus should be on cut, fabric, and function. Flowy fabrics like cotton, linen, and viscose allow the skin to breathe, while structured kaftans with cinched waists or V-necks help create definition without sacrificing comfort.
Longer lengths can offer more coverage without appearing frumpy. That's not the look we're going for here! Think ankle-length dresses with side slits or midi tunics with bold patterns. If you prefer trousers, consider palazzo styles in lightweight fabrics, paired with a matching tunic or kimono-style top. I also love a good maxi skirt as seen on the gorgeous Tess Daly, below.
© InstagramDon’t be afraid of bold florals, tropical motifs, or geometric patterns. And don't forget the all-important accessories. Opt for a statement sunhat, oversized sunglasses, or summer jewellery, these can bring personality to your look while adding sun protection (oh and don't forget the face sunscreen as well!).
Best beach cover-ups for 2026
1/13
M&S Cotton Rich Embroidered Mini Kaftan Dress
© M&SEditor's Note:
This short kaftan dress is a go-to option for a holiday. It's cut in a loose relaxed fit, with a deep V-neck and features a bold palm design for an eye-catching look.This looks great over a swimsuit, a bikini or even over black linen trousers.
2/13
Boden Longline Linen Beach Shirt
© BodenEditor's Note:
This has been described online as "your new summer holiday hero". The 100% cotton fabric will keep you cool, and the print will go perfectly over a colourful swimsuit. It's designed to fall on the thigh, so will look great with linen trousers or shorts for more coverage.
3/13
H&M Cotton Beach Shirt & Shorts
© H&MEditor's Note:
This linen shirt is very affordable and will look great with denim shorts, a denim skirt, beach trousers or even with the shorts that match.
4/13
NAIA Beach 'Pelosa' Dress
© NAIAEditor's Note:
Luxury British swimwear brand Naia Beach is one of my go-to brands for gorgeous swimwear, so it's no surprise to learn they stock some incredible cover-ups as well. In new campaign photos titled ‘Golden Hour’ swimwear has been modelled at sunset. Trust me, this ocean scene print beach dress will look stunning wherever you choose to wear it.
5/13
Aspiga 'Itisha' Striped Beach Dress
© AspigaEditor's Note:
Made from 100% organic cotton, this is a chic midi dress with functional pockets and a flattering V-neckline.
6/13
Pour Moi Zoey Shirred Bodice Multiway Maxi Dress
© Pour MoiEditor's Note:
This maxi-length beach dress is designed with a versatile multiway neckline, giving you the freedom to style it to suit your mood, from bandeau to halter and more.
7/13
Albaray x Laetitia Rouget Tropique Print Halter Maxi
© AlbarayEditor's Note:
Albaray has launched a vibrant summer collaboration with artist and designer Laetitia Rouget. The limited edition capsule collection features a bold, joyful and made-for-sunshine maxi dress.
8/13
Ralph Lauren Polo Oxford Boyfriend Shirt
© Ralph LaurenEditor's Note:
If you want an elevated shirt dress for your poolside look, how about Ralph Lauren? This boyfriend-fit shirt is extremely luxe looking thanks to the Ralph Lauren logo embroidered to the chest.
9/13
River Island Brown Leaf Print Maxi Kaftan
© River IslandEditor's Note:
With a drawstring waist, this leaf-covered kaftan is super flattering and can be worn with either the matching swimsuit or one of your own.
10/13
Pucci Cotton Pareo
© PucciEditor's Note:
Pucci was huge last year and I predict we might be having another Pucci Summer in 2026. This brightly-coloured pareo is perfect for your next vacation - it features the 'Collane' print that first debuted in the early 70s. And FYI, a pareo is a sarong made of a single straight piece of printed cotton cloth, made famous in Polynesia.
11/13
Cupshe 'Tango' Ornate Cover-Up Mini Dress
© CupsheEditor's Note:
Thanks to the V-neckline and sleeveless cut, this dress will keep it light and easy, while the mini length adds that playful finish made for sun-drenched days.
12/13
NEXT Black & White Polka Dot Printed Maxi Kaftan
© NEXTEditor's Note:
This polka dot cover-up is a beachwear essential for your summer holiday - and the poncho shape makes it the easiest throw-on summer must-have.
13/13
New Look Cream Metallic Stripe Palm Tree Embroidered Kaftan
© New LookEditor's Note:
From poolside cocktails to elegant beach bar evenings, this cream palm tree kaftan will elevate your style effortlessly.
How I chose the best cover-ups for mature women
Let these beach cover-ups level up your holiday looks this summer…
- Style: I have handpicked styles to suit certain body types and areas you might want to enhance or disguise.
- Brand: The cover-ups featured are all from trusted brands.
- Price: I have flagged when cover-ups are on sale.
Editor's Verdict
Today’s cover-ups are not about hiding what you look like, they’re about highlighting your style and celebrating the confidence that comes with age. So whether you're walking barefoot on the sand or sipping something cool under a parasol, let your cover-up do the talking. Because age may be just a number, but style is forever.
