Start with How You'll Wear It
A cover-up that works by the pool might feel out of place on the beach—or vice versa. Before you pick one, think about the setting and your plans. Will you be walking from the hotel to the shore, lounging at a poolside bar, or heading straight home after a swim? Each situation calls for a different balance of coverage, fabric weight, and style.
Fabric and Weight: What Works Where
The Swan Plus Cover Up uses lustrous poly-charmeuse, a smooth, slightly shiny fabric that drapes well and feels cool against the skin. It's a good choice for a dressier poolside look or an evening beach walk. The Vija Cover Up is made from chiffon and embroidered netting, which is lighter and more breathable—ideal for hot, sunny days when you want minimal weight and maximum airflow.
Both fabrics are synthetic, so they dry quickly after a dip. But the Swan's poly-charmeuse is heavier and less transparent than the Vija's chiffon, so consider how much coverage you want when wet.
Two Cover-Ups at a Glance
- Swan Plus Cover Up: The Swan Plus Cover Up is made from lustrous poly-charmeuse with three rows of ostrich feather detailing at the hem. It includes a poly-charmeuse belt tie at the center front and is available in sizes 1X, 2X, and 3X. The feather trim adds a flirtatious, dressy touch that suits evening or resort wear. The plus-size range makes it a rare option for those needing 1X–3X sizing.
Swan Plus Cover Up - Vija Cover Up: The Vija Cover Up features a V neckline, embroidered netting sleeves, and chiffon fabric. It comes with a set-in belt and is available in sizes XS/S and M/L. The lightweight chiffon and embroidered sleeves make it a breezy, classic choice for hot days. The size range is more limited, so it's best for standard sizes.
Vija Cover Up
Size and Fit: Who It's For
The Swan Plus Cover Up is available in 1X, 2X, and 3X, making it a strong candidate if you need a plus-size cover-up. The Vija Cover Up comes in XS/S and M/L, so it's better suited to standard sizing. Neither product's supplied information includes detailed fit guidance (like length or bust measurements), so if you're between sizes, you may need to compare the fabric's drape and your preferred looseness.
Both cover-ups have a belt (the Swan's is a separate poly-charmeuse tie; the Vija's is set-in), which lets you adjust the silhouette. This is useful if you want to cinch the waist for a more fitted look or leave it loose for a relaxed feel.
Care Considerations Before You Buy
Both cover-ups require hand washing. The Swan Plus Cover Up should be hand washed cold and laid flat to dry—the feather trim is delicate and can't go in a machine. The Vija Cover Up should be hand washed cold inside out and laid flat to dry. Neither is suitable for a washing machine or dryer, so if you're looking for a low-maintenance cover-up for frequent travel, this is a factor to weigh.
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick the Swan Plus Cover Up if you want a dressier, plus-size option with a dramatic feather trim that works for evening or special occasions by the water. Choose the Vija Cover Up if you prefer a lightweight, classic chiffon style with embroidered sleeves for everyday beach or pool use. Both are ethically made and cruelty-free, but your choice will come down to the setting, fit, and care routine that fits your lifestyle.
