As we dive head first into Australia summer, (and hopefully, some tropical domestic travel), it's only natural that many of us are beginning to think about our outfits. But as tends to be the case during the height of the season down under, the distinction between beach and bar is virtually non-existent. Besides, what could possibly encapsulate our lifestyle more than heading from a long day at the beach to out with friends? For those instances when a wrapped towel won't do, a handy selection of beach cover ups is essential.

If you're feeling a little unsure about the outdated connotations of traditional beach cover ups, there's no need to fear. We plan on doing things a little different round here. Gone are the days of long, shapeless beach dresses; or unnecessarily vibrant kaftans that felt like even too much for the loudest of European beaches. No, this season's approach is far more understated.

In the last year, we've seen the return of the sarong, have welcomed oversized shirting to the sand and championed the practical and stylish nature of slip-on dresses. Below, we're taking you through the hottest alternatives to traditional beach cover ups that need to be in your wardrobe this summer.

1. Sarongs

If you've been noticing some of your favourite models sporting the humble sarong again, it's for good reason. A favourite of our market editor, Angel, this piece is one of the most versatile summer items you can have. Depending on your chosen length, a sarong can be worn in so many ways – skirt, dress, top – the possibilities are endless.

Jace Banu Krys Sarong

Matteau Silk Sarong

Venroy Silk Sarong

Zimmermann Frayed Floral-Print Pareo

Faithfull Anacapri Pareo Plumeria

Lucy Folk Hand Printed Sarong

2. Oversized shirting

There's no denying that our love for oversized tailoring has sky rocketed; and thankfully this look isn't solely reserved for the office. You can wear your shirt open over your swimsuit while on the beach, and then button up this look for drinks and snacks after. Linen or cotton, this modern take on beach cover ups will work for anyone.

Zulu and Zephyr Marine Stripe Organic Cotton Blend Shirt

Jac and Jack Yeats Shirt

Seafolly Breeze Beach Shirt

Free People We The Free Freddie Striped Shirt

Raes x Matteau Short Sleeve Silk Shirt

3. Throw-on dresses

A dress you can throw on straight from the ocean is any beachgoers dream. Lightweight and breathable, the perfect throw-over dress should be comfortable enough for a warm day spent water-side, and chic enough that you can siwftly transition to the bar on a balmy evening. Whether long or short, you can find this trend at multiple different price points and in a variety of pieces.

SIR Blair Beaded Overlap Dress

Melissa Odabash Pearl crochet-trimmed embroidered cotton-voile mini dress

Avenue Noelle Midi Dress

Dissh Tahiti Lemon Midi Dress

Deiji Studios tie-detailed gathered organic cotton-poplin mini dress

If this has set you in a mood for summer shopping, complete your beach outfit with our selection of the string bikinis we're buying this season.

Feature image: one, two.