How to Be Fashionable at a Pool Party

Co-authored by Jordan Stolch and Amber Crain

Last Updated: June 28, 2021 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.

Method 1

Method 1 of 12:
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.}
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Method 2

Method 2 of 12:
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]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}

Method 3

Method 3 of 12:
Go vintage with high-waisted shorts and a crop top.

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Stay cool in this outfit if you’re not planning on swimming. 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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Method 4

Method 4 of 12:
Rock denim cutoffs for a cool, classic look.

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Denim shorts never go out of style and they’re easy to wear at the pool. 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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Method 5

Method 5 of 12:
Try a comfy two-piece outfit for a resort vibe.

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Pick an outfit with a matching top and bottom for a polished look. 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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Method 6

Method 6 of 12:
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]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.}

Method 7

Method 7 of 12:
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.
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Method 8

Method 8 of 12:
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.

Method 9

Method 9 of 12:
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.
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Method 10

Method 10 of 12:
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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Method 11

Method 11 of 12:
Choose a simple, no-fuss hairstyle.

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Buns, topknots, and loose braids are cute, low maintenance styles. 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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Method 12

Method 12 of 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.

Community Q&A
Did you know you can get expert answers for this article? Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow

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

Support wikiHow by unlocking this 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.
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.
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.
Question

What if I can't swim?

Community Answer

Stay in the shallow end, or just dip your feet in the water instead of getting in. Don't do anything to put your safety at risk.
Question

Can women wear bikinis to pool parties?

Community Answer

Yes! It's completely up to you to decide what kind of bathing suit you want to wear.
Question

I am really pale. What can I do?

Community Answer

Embrace your white skin and be confident. You don't have to be tan to be fashionable. You can also use a self-tanner to darken your skin a few shades. Remember to wear sunblock.
Question

I am trying to find a fancy shower cap that covers my hair while I am walking in the pool, not for swimming. Where should I look?

Community Answer

Look it up online or look in the shampoo/bathroom section at a store.
Question

I'm fat, and I'm embarrassed to wear swimming shorts because my stomach is exposed. What should I do?

Community Answer

Be proud of your body! Don't worry about wearing swimming shorts -- even if your stomach is exposed, it's not the end of the world. Confidence is one of the most attractive qualities in a person!
Question

How do I keep my hair looking good at the pool without the trouble of brushing my hair?

Community Answer

You can braid it if it's long enough.
Question

I'm chunky, but I really want to wear a bikini. I'm afraid my fat will hang over. What can I do?

Community Answer

Embrace your body and be proud of it! There's nothing wrong with having a little extra weight around the middle. You could consider wearing some swimming shorts as an addition to the super cute bikini if you want. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in your own body and learn to love it.

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References

↑ https://www.gq.com/gallery/what-to-wear-to-the-pool-this-summer
↑ Jordan Stolch. Image Consultant & Style Advisor. Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.
↑ https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/g26977984/pool-party-outfits-ideas/
↑ Jordan Stolch. Image Consultant & Style Advisor. Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.
↑ https://www.collegefashion.net/fashion-tips/how-to-dress-for-a-pool-party/
↑ https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/g27406066/pool-party-outfits/
↑ https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/g27406066/pool-party-outfits/
↑ https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/g26977984/pool-party-outfits-ideas/
↑ Jordan Stolch. Image Consultant & Style Advisor. Expert Interview. 25 September 2020.

More References (7)

About This Article

Co-authored by:

Image Consultant & Style Advisor

This article was co-authored by Jordan Stolch and by wikiHow staff writer, Amber Crain. 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). This article has been viewed 182,772 times.

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Co-authors: 44

Updated: June 28, 2021

Views: 182,772

Categories: Theme Parties

Article SummaryX

To be fashionable at a pool party, try carrying great accessories. A cute, large bag can hold everything you might need, and it doesn’t need to match your outfit, either! Your jewelry should be moderate, like stacked bracelets or simple earrings with a thin necklace, since you could lose them or get them wet. And for both fashion and practicality, pick sunglasses that compliment your face shape to protect your eyes and cute summer shoes like sandals. Wear swimwear you think looks good on you, whether or not you plan to swim, and layer up with a sarong, cover-up, or lightweight dress. Finally, pay attention to the details. Make sure your sunscreen is waterproof if you’re planning to swim, and choose an easy-to-fix hairstyle like a braid, bun, or ponytail. Your makeup should be as subtle as possible. Waterproof mascara alone is perfect. And, of course, your beach towel can be as fun, big, and funky as you want it to be! Read on for more details on how to dress flatteringly at a pool party!

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