Pool Party Outfits To Make a Splash In
Dear Deborah,
My husband and I have been invited to my brother and sister-in-law’s house on Sunday for an afternoon pool party with some of their friends. I haven’t decided if I will swim or sit on the deck and have wine and cheese on the patio. (LOL!) Can you give me some ideas for pool party outfits, either way? It’s going to be hot. Thanks, Colleen
Hi Colleen,
A pool party is one of the best things about summer; it sounds like you will have a great time. I recently attended a work-related pool party, and here’s what I wore.
It was a breezy cotton shirtdress with rope wedges and a straw bag. This was in the late afternoon, with drinks by the pool. Nobody was swimming. The year before, at another pool party at a swanky downtown hotel, I wore this coral flowy top with the glam boho vibe.
You could wear something similar to either of these outfits depending on how dressy you think the party will be. This second look, for example, is more suited to cocktails around the pool in the late afternoon. If you want to dress it down, switch out the statement necklace and big earrings for something small and straightforward, and replace the gold heels with a pair of cute, casual sandals.
Beachy looks are always fun and get you in the mood. Whatever you wear, think of bright colors, prints, light fabrics, and breezy silhouettes. Here are some pool party outfits with that look and feel.
What to Wear to a Pool Party…..
1. Wear a Maxi Dress
How often do you get to wear a pretty maxi like this? So I say, if you have a pool party coming up, go for it! This gorgeous turquoise and black maxi dress is a fantastic mix of elegance and casual. Wear it as is or as a cover-up over your swimsuit. Pair it with fun fringe earrings that remind you of the tropics, a pretty perforated tote, and a pair of luxurious flat sandals.
2. Shorts and a Pretty Tank are Cute
More and more women are throwing out so-called age-appropriate rules and wearing shorts well into their 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s. A pair of crisp shorts, a feminine top, and a cute pair of shoes can look great. Shorts are perfect for a casual pool party when you want to do more sitting around chatting than swimming.
Accessories are the magic bullet that elevates everyday shorts. This fabulous straw circle bag is the “it” bag of the season. (More about circle bags here). Tri-tassel earrings give this pool party outfit an exotic spin, and rope wedges are super summery.
3. Flirty Swimsuit
If you are going to take a swimsuit, take one that turns heads. This romantic ruffle tankini is feminine, fun, and suitable on-trend. The V-neck lengthens your neck, and the rows of ruffles play up your bust while hiding a jelly belly. Don’t forget to switch out your everyday leather bag for a poolside purse. A straw bag is always the right choice. ( More tankinis here)
4. A Linen Pool Party Dress is Cool, Comfy & Chic
Linen is light, calm, and the ultimate summer fabric – perfect for a pool party when it’s blistering hot. This relaxed linen shirtdress with the beachy ombré effect is the ideal little sundress to throw on and go. Add some fab earrings and a pair of classy metallic flats to dress it up. You’ll glow like a summer sunset!
I recently attended a pool party for a business event, and I wore this cute cotton shirt dress and a straw bag.