Why are Cover-Ups Always Glorified Sarongs?

Summer is here, and with it comes the need for beachwear. From bikinis to one-pieces, there are countless options available to women when it comes to swimwear. But what about cover-ups? Are they necessary? And why do so many of them look like glorified sarongs?

Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room: cover-ups are not a necessity. Yes, they can be helpful in providing some extra coverage or protection from the sun, but ultimately they serve as an accessory to your swimsuit rather than a requirement.

So why do we feel compelled to wear them? Perhaps it’s because we’ve been conditioned to believe that our bodies should be covered up at all times unless we’re at home or on a private beach. Or maybe it’s because we want to maintain a certain level of modesty while still enjoying the water.

Regardless of the reason, there’s no denying that cover-ups have become a staple in many women’s beach wardrobes. And while there are certainly some cute and stylish options out there (think flowy maxi dresses or sheer kimono-style jackets), too many of them resemble nothing more than oversized sarongs.

Don’t get me wrong – I love a good sarong as much as the next person. They’re versatile and easy to wear, making them perfect for throwing on over your swimsuit before hitting up the snack bar or heading back to your hotel room.

But when every other cover-up looks like something you could buy at a street market in Bali, it starts to feel like designers aren’t putting much effort into creating something truly unique and fashionable.

And let’s not forget about the practicality factor here. Sarongs are great for lounging around on a beach chair or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. But if you’re trying to play volleyball or go for a swim, that thing is going to get tangled up faster than you can say “Marco Polo.”

So what’s the solution? Well, for starters, designers could start getting a bit more creative with their cover-up offerings. Instead of just slapping some fringe on a rectangle of fabric and calling it a day, why not experiment with different cuts and silhouettes?

A short romper or jumpsuit would be perfect for those who want something easy to move around in, while a long caftan-style dress would provide plenty of coverage without sacrificing style.

And let’s not forget about materials – there are so many lightweight and breathable fabrics out there that would be perfect for beachwear. Think linen, cotton voile, or even mesh.

Of course, all of this is easier said than done. Designers have to balance creating something that’s both fashionable and functional while also keeping costs reasonable enough that consumers will actually buy it.

But at the end of the day, isn’t that what fashion is all about? Pushing boundaries and taking risks in order to create something truly unique and special?

So here’s my challenge to all you swimwear designers out there: let’s see some creativity when it comes to cover-ups. We’re tired of looking like we’re wearing oversized scarves – give us something we can really get excited about!