How to Be Fashionable at a Pool Party

Co-authored by Jordan Stolch and Amber Crain

Last Updated: January 10, 2024 References

Pool parties are a great way to mingle and enjoy a day in the summer sun, but what on earth do you wear? You want to look and feel fashionable, but comfort and practicality are just as important! Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through a variety of great options that you can rock pool-side, including looks that don’t involve wearing a swimsuit. We’ll touch on some hair and makeup ideas, too, so you’ll look and feel your very best.

1

Go with swimwear that makes you feel confident.

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Pick a comfortable suit that fits well if you plan to swim. You certainly don’t have to swim at a pool party, but if you think you will, go with a suit that stays in place and fits well. Cute two-pieces, like tankinis, and stylish one-pieces are great options! How much skin you show is completely up to you and what you feel comfortable in.
- If this is a work-related pool party, a string bikini probably isn't a great choice. Go with something a bit more modest.
- For guys, the most fashionable and flattering look is a slightly fitted pair of trunks that falls between your mid-thigh and knee.^{[1]
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- The key to feeling confident is wearing something that's authentically you. If you feel comfortable rocking a two-piece then go for it, but if you don't, that's okay, too.^{[2]
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  Expert Source
  
  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}

2

Bring a cute cover up that complements your suit.

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Go with a light, transparent fabric to show off your suit underneath. A white see-through caftan or a mesh cover up are stylish options that are both functional and fun. Keep in mind you don’t have to buy anything new! Kimonos and sarongs make stylish cover-ups, as well.^{[3]
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- A long kimono or wrap can be open in the front if you're comfortable with that, while still providing a little coverage on the sides and backside.^{[4]
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  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}

3

Go vintage with high-waisted shorts and a crop top.

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If you’re not wearing a swimsuit to the party but still want to show a little skin, a midriff baring crop top paired with high-waisted shorts looks elegant and timeless. Skip the denim and go with elastic-waisted shorts in a fun print, like bright flowers.^{[5]
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4

Rock denim cutoffs for a cool, classic look.

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Put on your swimsuit, slide on some denim shorts, and you’re off! You can skip a shirt altogether or go with a loose white T-shirt that allows your cute swimsuit to peek through a little.^{[6]
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5

Try a comfy two-piece outfit for a resort vibe.

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Try a short-sleeve button-down top and tie it at the bottom to show off your mid-riff. Pretty prints and plaids can be fun for pool-side, so go with bottoms that match the print or color of your top for a luxe resort look.^{[7]
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6

Turn up the glam in a summer dress.

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Dresses are lightweight, breathable, and fashionable. Plus, if you’re hitting a restaurant after the pool, you won’t have to change your clothes! Choose something colorful or rock a bold print in a lightweight, natural fabric like cotton or linen.^{[8]
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- A short, flirty summer dress with spaghetti straps is a classic option if you want to show some skin.
- Long, flowing dresses and skirts are also great choices! Go with loose, lightweight material so you’ll be comfortable.
- A maxi dress can highlight your bikini top if you’re wearing a suit. Try pairing it with sandal wedges to feel confident and stylish.^{[9]
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  Expert Source
  
  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}

7

Slip on a pair of flip flops or sandals.

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These styles are both cute and practical for the pool. You don’t want to wear expensive footwear to a pool party since your shoes could definitely get wet! Go with a cute pair of flat, open-toed shoes, like sandals or flip flops, that complement your outfit and are easy to slip on and off.^{[10]
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- Avoid high wedges and heels since those can look a little formal at the pool.^{[11]
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- For guys, go with low top or slip-on sneakers, boat shoes, or casual loafers.

8

Pack your necessities in a colorful tote.

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Pick a bag that coordinates with your outfit or swimsuit. It’s so easy to throw everything you need into a casual tote and head to the pool, and you won’t have to worry about your belongings getting wet or damaged. Your tote doesn’t have to match your outfit perfectly, but pick something that complements your outfit’s style.^{[12]
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- Straw totes are great for a carefree, boho vibe.
- A canvas tote in a bold print is another classic option.
- Look for a bag with hidden pockets to hide or protect items like tampons, valuables, and your phone.

9

Accessorize with fun, casual jewelry.

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Stick with bangles, beaded necklaces, and simple stud earrings. Just because it’s pool party doesn’t mean you can’t wear jewelry! Beaded or woven necklaces and bracelets are great options that you can safely get wet. Stacked plastic bangles in a variety of colors can make a fun statement, too.^{[13]
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- Avoid wearing your nicest and most valuable pieces since they could easily be damaged or lost by the pool.

10

Complete your look with statement sunglasses.

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Oversized and cat-eye sunglasses look glam and protect your eyes. Select a bright pair of frames for a fun, summery vibe. It’s always a fashion plus if your sunglasses match your outfit or swimsuit!
- For example, go with a pair that matches your swimsuit's color or try bold, geometric frames that complement the suit's pattern.^{[14]
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11

Choose a simple, no-fuss hairstyle.

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You’ll be outside all day, so go with a no-fuss hairstyle that can withstand the elements. Braids, buns, and ponytails are excellent choices that hold up to a day of sun, wind, and water. Plus, at the end of the day, you can take your hair down and rock loose, beachy waves for the evening.^{[15]
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12

Stick with natural-looking makeup.

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A light coverage foundation with SPF is perfect for the pool. Heavy, full coverage foundation and concealer will be uncomfortable and won’t hold up in the sun all long. Subtle, natural-looking makeup is the way to go! Blend a dab of rosy cream blush into the apples of your cheeks and add a coat of waterproof mascara for a natural look that lasts all day.^{[16]
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- Bring along makeup wipes or blotting papers for cleanups during the day.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How do you look cute at a pool party?

Jordan Stolch
Image Consultant & Style Advisor
Jordan Stolch is an Image Strategist, Style Advisor, and the Founder of MiKADO - a concierge personal styling firm. With over a decade of experience, Jordan specializes in helping people eliminate the confusion and insecurities associated with how to dress in order to build a powerful image and use clothing to their strategic advantage. Jordan trains entrepreneurs, business leaders, and corporate executives in the foundations of "power dressing", from some of the country's preeminent companies such as Morgan Stanley, Deloitte, Berkshire Hathaway, Universal Music Group, Starbucks, and Disney. She works with clients both in-person and virtually, teaching them how to take the confusion out of style so they can operate at a higher level. Jordan earned her BA in Psychology from the University of Waterloo and studied Merchandise Marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIDM).

Jordan Stolch

Image Consultant & Style Advisor

Expert Answer

The number one thing is to wear something that's authentically you so you can feel confident. Then that will really shine through! If you don't feel comfortable in a two-piece, a one-piece is just fine. You can also try pairing your bathing suit with a maxi dress and sandal wedges, or covering up with a long kimono or long-wrap. Feel free to accessorize with a wider-brim hat, hoop earrings, or cool bangle bracelets too.

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Question

What if I'm fat and you I have chubby legs?

Cornelia Venter

Community Answer

Wear swimming shorts. Or, be proud of your body and rock your body as it is. You do not have to be shy.

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Question

What if I am not going to swim; what can I wear?

Community Answer

Just wear something casual. If you're a guy, go for shorts and a t-shirt or polo shirt. If you're a girl, you can still wear shorts and a t-shirt, or a sundress. Wear sandals as well, and sunglasses.

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