There's only one thing that's more important for going to the beach or pool than finding the perfect swimsuit. It's finding the perfect way to cover it up! Forget the big shirts this year. There are plenty of stylin' ways to enjoy the sand and the surf without baring all of your assets. Many of the new cover-ups do double duty apres swim, too. Here's a look at your options on and off the beach:

—The tunic top. Long or short, the tunic can be a lifesaver when you need a quick pullover cover-up. Embroidered V-necks are the trendy choice this summer and can easily provide a versatile layering piece to be mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe. Layer over tanks, capris or jeans for even more fashion mileage.

—The dress. From flowing maxis to breezy minis, the dress is a great way to add some style to your swimwear. Short sundresses and shirtdresses are other versions of these new cover-ups that are making waves by the water. Check out fun ginghams or graphic stripes and florals, even animal prints. Add flat sandals, simple jewelry, sunnies and a floppy hat for touring your favorite seaside town.

—The sheer cover-up. So yes, what's the point of working your buns off all year if you're not going to show off a little skin? Right? With these transparent options, you can still feel as if you're covered, but just barely. Choose from "see-through" cover-ups this summer in mesh, crochet, lace and fishnet looks.

—The oversize poncho. Elegant and airy, ponchos are generous cover-ups that give you plenty of room to move. Detailed with fringe, this summer's ponchos will blanket you in style. Throw on a pair of drawstring harem pants and you're set to eat all you want at your favorite beachside cafe.

—The playsuit. Rompers or overalls, these one-piece wonders are perfect cover-ups for swimwear. In strapless bandeaus, they are made for fun in the sun; in updated denim, they can be dressed up or down with flip-flops or heels.

—The sarong or pareu. These wraparound scarves, made famous by glamorous movie stars of the '40s a la Dorothy Lamour, are one of the most versatile ways to cover up a swimsuit. Tied around the waist, they provide an instant skirt; wrapped around the shoulders, they're fabulous shawls. They also make stylish beach blankets. Try one in a bold graphic batik print in your favorite color. You may wear this one all year long.

—The caftan. This long robelike garment with full sleeves makes a great cover-up that's a winner for all shapes and sizes. The kimono-style cover-up with batwing sleeves is a close cousin to the caftan, and another stylish alternative to more traditional swimwear, especially in shorter hemlines. In exotic prints, these cover-ups can also function as cocktail attire — great for entertaining poolside.

—The pants and shorts. There are all kinds of ways to cover up your lower half — from wide-leg palazzo pants to sporty board shorts to swingy little skirts. The best cover-up separates this summer have lots of mix-and-match appeal, easily working with other clothes in your wardrobe. So be creative with those outer layers. Who cares what you're wearing underneath?! Bare as little or as much as you want.

The tunic top is one of summer's favorite swimwear cover-ups. This one is from Lands' End.

To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.