First up on the list is a simple white dress. Whether you plan to take a dip in the cool waters of the swimming pool at your hotel, or you just need something chic to lounge in at the beach bar, this white dress is a no-brainer. Featuring a loosely-fitted wrap front, it’s the perfect dress for those who want to flaunt their cute swimwear in.

Dress, $34, from Pomelo.

Another idea for a fuss-free beach cover up comes in the form of the jumpsuit! It’s so easy: slip out of it when you’re ready to jump into the pool, and pull it back on easily when you’re walking around. Plus, the addition of the swishy ruffles. Another feature is the ruched waistline, which allows for a more comfortable fit.

Something Borrowed jumpsuit, $18.90, from Zalora.

A striped jumpsuit isn’t just perfect for your poolside snaps, it’s also a great outfit that you can always throw on when you’re on holiday. Featuring a lace-up front and pale blue tassels, it’s a versatile piece that you can throw into your luggage, and then pick it right out of your suitcase and slip it on. Plus, you can always dress it up with fun fringe earrings and cool beach sandals as well.

Jumpsuit, $76.90, from Topshop.

Another obvious choice for a great cover up? The floaty beach kaftan. We love this printed design because it’s a fast way to dress up your vacay OOTD without having to put in a whole lot of effort. And when your swimsuit is wet and you’re putting on a cover up, the print helps to distract from the wet patches of fabric, because it helps camouflage the colour difference. Plus, the shorter hemline in the middle means that petite women can also wear this without looking swamped.

Pink N’ Proper kaftan, $46.90, from Zalora.

If the bright print is a little too much for your tastes and personal style, then opt for a dark pattern such as this muted paisley design. It’s also longer in length, which offers you more coverage from prying eyes and the damaging effects of the sun. Alternatively, because this kaftan comes with buttons, you could consider buttoning up the front and wearing it as a dress. Style it up with gold necklaces and stacked bangles and you’re all set.

Kaftan, $34.95, from H&M.

Want to avoid wearing prints entirely? Opt for this beige-coloured kaftan instead. It comes with playful pom-poms that run along the edges of the kaftan, giving it that little bit more texture and whimsy. We also like that the kaftan has a sash that comes with it, so you can always nip your waist in and show off your beach body without having to flash any skin.

Kaftan, $99.90, from Mango.

Sarongs make great companions when going to the beach, because you can always turn them into a scarf or a wrap top. If you often have a problem with sarongs looking too puffy, then our recommendation is that you find a sarong in a thinner fabric — like this blue and white design from H&M. Featuring delicate florals in a variation of shades of blue, it instantly dresses up your plainest swimsuit or bikini, so you always look presentable and chic.

Sarong, $17.95, from H&M.

We are in love with these pleated shorts for so many reasons! Firstly the elasticated waistband means that there’s no time wasted trying to fiddle with buttons and zips — just pull it on or off at the pool. Secondly, the pleated fabric means that the fit of these shorts are looser and less likely to cling to your body, which is a great thing to have when your skin is wet after you’ve taken a dip. Lastly, the printed black and white colour makes it look dressier and still retains versatility at the same time.

Shorts, $49.90, from Zara.

Channel Moroccan vibes with this polka-dotted ruffled skirt. The wrap front is super flattering for most body shapes, because it essentially highlights your waist. The ruffles that cascade down the front also helps to give this skirt a dressier feel, and we love the playful polka dots. Pair this with a white t-shirt for when you’re headed to your fave cafe, or throw it on with a swimsuit when headed to the hotel bar.

Skirt, $59.90, from Mango.

Sometimes, the only cover up you might really need is a top to throw over your swimwear, especially when you’ve already got a swimsuit or a pair of boy shorts on. Our first fave pick is this rust-coloured knit top that features rows of colourful stripes. It offers you just enough coverage, keeps you cool and won’t cling to your body as you move around. Plus, you can also style this for brunch with a pair of white denim shorts and a pair of Grecian sandals.

Top, $52, from Warehouse.

A white top is a great way to help keep you cool, because white will help to deflect heat. On top of that, the looser fit of this shirt means that you can skip the stress of kick starting your pre-holiday diet and cut straight to the fun and relaxation of the actual holiday itself. The embroidery also helps to dress up the plainness of the shirt, without overdoing the details, so it doesn’t look like you’ve tried too hard either.

Tunic, $69.90, from Zara.

When in doubt, a black top will always prove to be a safe bet. You can always count on black because it helps you look slimmer, and wearing a black top over your wet swimwear means that you won’t ever have to worry about unsightly dark patches while you’re drying off. Post-holiday, this black top will also make a casual top that you can wear on the weekends when you’re out running errands.

Top, $76.90, from Topshop.