If you're hitting the pool this summer or taking a trip to the shore, you don't want to overspend on beach necessities or overpack your bag. This collection of convertible beachwear under $25 can be worn in multiple ways, so you can buy fewer pieces and still be prepared for anything.
A kimono scarf takes so many forms: a pretty beach cover-up, a wrap-around skirt, an oversized neckerchief, and an approximation of its namesake. The Capelli New York Solid Lace Kimono Scarf, available in black and ivory and priced at $12 on Amazon, features a delicate lace pattern and decorative fringe edging. When wearing like a kimono, add a bright belt to accentuate your waist; when using as a cover-up, pair with a solid-colored bikini for eye-catching contrast.
Are you feeling adventurous enough to rock an eye-catching print, or do you prefer to head to the shore in your favorite color? With the Alpine Design Women's 4-In-1 Convertible Dress ($15 at Sports Authority), you can do both with an easy flip. This convertible dress sports a print pattern on the outside and a solid color on the inside. Wear either side as a halter dress or fold down the top section to convert into a skirt.
Drop down on any tropical island and you'll probably see plenty of beachgoers in sarongs or pareos. These versatile pieces can be tied into various styles, such as a halter (behind the neck), tube top (across the chest), or skirt (around the waist). You can also lay a sarong flat on the sand as a beach towel. A Scarf Trading pareo sold on Amazon ($9) comes in prints and patterns, and is made of smooth, light chiffon.
If you're looking for a sexy way to show off your dedication to the gym, a white convertible cover-up sold on the online marketplace Bonanza ($12) might fill the bill. Wear as a strapless dress or fold down the top to create a straight skirt with a peek-a-boo pattern. Match with a white bikini and sun hat for a glamorous look.
Never underestimate the versatility of a scarf. It can serve as a shawl when the temperature drops after sunset, a blanket to sit or lie on, or a quick cover-up around the hips when wearing a swimsuit. The Women's Metallic Striped Oversized Scarf from Target ($17) comes in go-with-everything ivory. It's lightweight and woven through with thin metallic thread for extra flair.
Tie-dye wasn't buried with the '70s. Channel your retro side in the Raviya Strapless Tie-Dyed Convertible Dress Cover-Up from JC Penney ($20 on sale). Wear as a strapless dress or a fitted skirt before and after beach time. One reviewer raves about the soft material and fitted bodice, and happily wears it both ways.
If you love the sarong look but aren't thrilled about constantly tying it into one style or another, a KSH beach wrap available on Amazon ($8) might be the answer. Like a sarong, it can be wrapped easily around the body for a sexy backless look. Two spaghetti-strap slings help secure the dress at the shoulders. It's made of light chiffon and comes in khaki, light blue, and pink patterns.
The Concepts 8-in-1 Convertible Dress from Walmart ($15) comes in three summery colors and three lively prints. Tie into a halter, tube top, and more. With a skirt that falls to the knee, this polyester/spandex number goes on a date, to a family affair, and, of course, to the beach. Reviewers give shout-outs to the soft, comfortable material and the instructional brochure.
An active day at the beach demands a visor. A convertible visor from e4Hats ($12) can also be worn as a cap. The thin, breathable 100 percent cotton rolls back to form the cap top or forward into a visor crown. An 8-inch bill protects against the sun's rays and a built-in terry sweatband keeps the droplets at bay. An elastic band in the back stretches to fit any size head.
A terry-cloth chair cover sold on Amazon ($9) does double duty as a carryall. This convertible beach accessory, designed for lounge and deck chairs, has pockets on each side to hold poolside essentials. When you're done for the day, fold the cover into a handled tote.