Blessed are the Cover-Ups...

For they can save our little tushies in oh so many ways. 

The swimsuit cover-up has been getting lots of attention these days in the swimwear world.  It's making a huge resurgence, but in a whole, new, modern way.  It's no longer the perky, matchy-matchy garment that was desperately put on over the swimsuit in order to make one's way across the hot sand and past oogling eyes to the snack shop.  These days, it's more of a wear-with-anything kind of frock that's perfect to pack if you're travelling, or just to have in your closet arsenal as a every day item. 

The cover-up can be dressed up, or down, over jeans, shorts, on it's own and naturally, over a swimsuit.  This practical item can be worn into town for a day of window-shopping and museum haunting and then go on to hold its own at happy hour, dinner date, or party scene.  It comes in all shapes, from a long evening gown, to a short, short mini.  There are tops, jackets, dresses, sweaters, wraps...they all work.  Which is what makes it such a great value. 

The 2011 season rings in with a plethora of cover-ups by all of the great swimwear labels. 

Melissa Odabash Swimwear 2011 - Sandy Cover-Up

Melissa Odabash has been celebrating this beach attire for years.  Finally, she is heard loud and clear!  She's become a master at mixing casual with chic with her ponchos, caftans, tops and ,"little nothing dresses." 

Mikoh Swimwear 2011 - Biarritz Maxi Dress

New kids on the block, Mikoh Swimwear, didn't miss a beat with their loose flowing, cotton and/or silk beach togs, done in solids and nature inspired prints.

Kain Label 2011 - Bea Cardi

Another new brand that we are carrying this year is Kain Label.  Not really in the beach genre, per se, but perfect to wear just about everywhere. 

Agua Bendita Swimwear 2011 - Fortuna Dress

For the younger, frilly set, there's Agua Bendita's take on the beach dress...love it!  Everything that Agua Bendita does is full of fun and whimsy!  (Then again, I'm always a sucker for crochet.) 

Lenny Swimwear - Jersey Tie Jumpsuit, Quartz

Of course, if you're past all that and are looking for something cool and sophisticated, there's always classic Lenny. All of her designs are so refined and easy....so timeless.

Mara Hoffman Swimwear 2011 - Batik Sky Cocoon Cover-Up

And we can't forget a mention of the hottest designer for 2011, Mara Hoffman, who has taken the swimwear world by storm with her exotic silk prints and unique "cocoon" styles. 

The beach cover-up fills the void in the traveler's wardrobe and like your favorite credit card, "don't leave home without it."

~ C.