What to Wear to a Pool Party Tips and Ideas for the Perfect Outfit

Summer is here and that means it’s time for pool parties! Whether you’re attending a friend’s backyard pool party or heading to a resort for a day of sun and fun, finding the perfect outfit can be a challenge. You want to look stylish and put together, but also be comfortable enough to relax and enjoy yourself. So, what should you wear to a pool party? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these helpful tips and ideas.

1. Consider the Dress Code

Before you start planning your outfit, it’s important to consider the dress code of the pool party you’ll be attending. Is it a casual gathering among friends or a more formal event? This will dictate the type of outfit you should choose. If it’s a more formal affair, you may want to opt for a chic cover-up or sundress, while a casual party allows for more laid-back options.

Choosing the Right Swimsuit

The first thing to consider when dressing for a pool party is, of course, your swimsuit. This will be the base of your outfit, so it’s important to choose one that fits well and makes you feel confident. If you’re attending a more formal pool party, a one-piece swimsuit or high-waisted bikini are great options. For a casual gathering, you can opt for a classic bikini or a trendy one-shoulder style.

Accessorize with Cover-Ups

Cover-ups are a must-have for any pool party outfit. They provide some coverage and can easily transition from poolside lounging to grabbing lunch or drinks. For a chic and sophisticated look, opt for a flowy maxi dress or a sheer sarong. If you’re looking for something more casual, a t-shirt dress or denim shorts paired with a crop top make for a cute and comfortable outfit.

Shoes and Accessories

When it comes to shoes, comfort is key. You’ll be walking around on wet surfaces, so consider opting for sandals or flip flops that have a good grip. Avoid anything with a heel as they can be dangerous around the pool area. As for accessories, keep it simple with a pair of sunglasses, a hat, and some statement jewelry to add some flair to your look.

2. Dress for the Occasion

The type of pool party you’re attending will also play a role in what you should wear. Is it a themed party? Is there a specific color scheme? These are important things to consider when putting together your outfit.

Themed Pool Party

If the pool party has a specific theme, embrace it and have fun with your outfit. Whether it’s a tropical luau or a 70s-inspired disco party, use the theme as inspiration for your ensemble. For a Hawaiian-themed party, go for a colorful sarong or a flowy maxi dress with a tropical print. For a retro vibe, opt for a high-waisted bikini with a halter top and some oversized sunglasses.

Colorful Pool Party

A pool party with a colorful dress code calls for bright and bold pieces. This is the perfect opportunity to rock a neon swimsuit or a vibrant cover-up. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors or patterns, just make sure they complement each other. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, accessorize with some temporary tattoos or body glitter for a fun and playful touch.

3. Stay Comfortable and Cool

Pool parties are all about having fun in the sun, so it’s important to choose an outfit that will keep you cool and comfortable. Here are some tips to help you beat the heat.

Choose Breathable Fabrics

When picking out your pool party outfit, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or rayon. These materials are perfect for keeping you cool in the hot sun and also dry quickly if you decide to take a dip in the pool.

Stay Sun-Safe

While looking stylish is important, protecting your skin from the sun should be a top priority. Make sure to pack a wide-brimmed hat and some sunscreen to keep yourself protected from harmful UV rays. You can also opt for a cover-up with UV protection for added peace of mind.

Keep it Simple

Pool parties are all about relaxation and fun, so don’t overthink your outfit. Stick to simple and effortless pieces that will allow you to move around freely and enjoy yourself without any wardrobe malfunctions. A comfortable and flowy maxi dress or a breezy kaftan are perfect options for a carefree look.

4. Don’t Forget the Essentials

Aside from your swimsuit and cover-up, there are a few other essentials that you shouldn’t forget to bring to a pool party.

Towels

Make sure to bring along a towel to dry off after taking a dip in the pool. You can also use it to sit on while lounging by the poolside.

Waterproof Bag

A waterproof tote bag or pouch is a must-have for a pool party. It will keep your phone, keys, and other essentials safe and dry while you’re having fun in the water.

Sunscreen and After-Sun Care

Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, so make sure to pack some sunscreen with a high SPF. Also, don’t forget to bring some after-sun lotion to soothe your skin after being exposed to the sun all day.

FAQs

1. Can I wear jeans to a pool party?

While jeans may seem like a good option for a casual pool party, they are not recommended. Jeans are heavy and take a long time to dry, making them uncomfortable for a day spent in the sun. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen instead.

2. What type of shoes should I wear to a pool party?

Sandals or flip flops with good grip are the best options for a pool party. Avoid heels as they can be dangerous on wet surfaces. If you’re attending a more formal pool party, opt for some stylish espadrilles or wedges with a platform for added stability.

3. Can I wear makeup to a pool party?

You can definitely wear makeup to a pool party, but it’s important to keep it minimal and waterproof. Opt for a tinted moisturizer with SPF, waterproof mascara, and a lip balm with SPF for a fresh and natural look.

4. What type of bag should I bring to a pool party?

A waterproof tote bag or a small pouch is ideal for a pool party. It should be big enough to hold your essentials like sunscreen, phone, and keys, but small enough so that it doesn’t get in the way while you’re having fun.

5. Are there any items I should avoid wearing to a pool party?

Avoid wearing anything too tight or restricting, as well as heavy jewelry or accessories. You also may want to skip wearing white as it can become see-through when wet.

Conclusion

Dressing for a pool party can be both fun and challenging. But with these tips and ideas, we hope we’ve helped make the process a little easier. Remember to consider the dress code, dress for the occasion, stay comfortable, and don’t forget the essentials. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy yourself at the pool party!