How to Dress for a Pool Party (Girls)

Summer not only means warmer days and longer nights but plenty of pool party invitations. As exciting as pool parties are, they can also be a bit stressful when it comes to deciding what to wear. By choosing the right clothing and adding a few additional touches, you can take the stress out of planning for a pool party and can focus on enjoying the good times sure to come!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Choosing the Right Clothing

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Pick an appropriate swimsuit. Appropriate is referring to whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. Whether it’s a bikini or a one-piece; choose a suit, which you feel comfortable wearing.
- You don’t want to spend the entire pool party tugging at your suit or trying to find a place to hide in embarrassment, so choose a style of suit that makes you feel confident.
- A swimsuit can also serve as your statement piece, so pick a design that says something about you.^{[1]XResearch source} For example, if you love animal print, choose a leopard bikini. If you're a bit of a hippy at heart, try something with fringe. There are many ways you can express yourself through your swimsuit, so have fun with it.
- Keep in mind that the suit should also align with the type of pool party. For example, if there are kids at the event, you may want to reconsider wearing an extremely revealing suit.
2
Wear the right shoes. Tennis shoes probably aren’t the best choice for a pool party, as they could get wet. Opt for a pair of sandals instead.
- Shoes that have a good grip are preferable. You don't want to be slipping and sliding around the pool as you socialize.
- Avoid wearing wedges. They may look cute, but they aren’t practical for a pool party. Platform sandals may work better as they are sturdier and slip on and off easier.^{[2]XResearch source}
- A strappy sandal with a low heel is always a good choice, as they are fairly easy to get on and off and can add a lot to your style. For example, if you're keeping it fairly basic with a black suit and sundress, try wearing a pair of strappy sandals with rhinestone embellishments.
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3
Add some layers. Layers can help set you apart, keep you warm as the sun sets, and cover areas that you feel self-conscious about. Make sure the layers are lightweight though so that they can be removed easily and dry quickly.
- Try wearing a floral sarong or a maxi dress over your swimsuit. For a more casual look, consider a bright, lightweight t-shirt or tank top with shorts.
- Kaftan's are particularly popular right now. Choose one that is see-through and can be worn like a jacket, with an opening in the front, for a more chic look.
- Bright colors and bold patterns are a safe bet for pool parties, while dark colors and jeans should be avoided.
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Adding Additional Touches

1
Style your hair. When it comes to your hair, keep it fairly simple. You’ll be getting wet so don’t spend a lot of time styling your hair.
- An easy styling tip for your hair is the night before the party wash your hair. Then, while it's still damp, spritz on a bit of detangler and put it into a single braid (you can try multiple braids, too). In the morning, undo the braid(s) and you'll have beachy waves, which are perfect for a pool party!
- You may also want to keep your hair in a loose braid at the party. This is particularly useful if your hair is already wet after being in the pool. You can quickly braid it and once it has dried, can let it loose as the night wears on.
2
Add accessories.^{[3]XExpert SourceJordan Stolch
Image Consultant & Style AdvisorExpert Interview. 25 September 2020.} Everyone can benefit from adding a few accessories to their pool style. Try a stylish hat, which will not only provide extra protection from the sun but will look cute as well. A few pieces of jewelry is acceptable, but don’t overdo it, as you still want to be able to enjoy the pool without being weighed down.
- Don’t wear any overly expensive jewelry, as you’re at risk of losing it while in the pool.
- Floppy hats are not only stylish but practical for keeping the sun off your face.
- Sunscreen is an important accessory. Consider bringing a matching bag to hold your sunscreen and other accessories when you’re in the pool.
3
Don’t forget sunglasses. Although sunglasses are an accessory, they are such a major part of your pool party style, that they deserve to be in their category. Sunglasses protect while making a statement.
- Try to match your sunglasses with what you’re wearing. For example, if you’re wearing gold jewelry, try finding some gold-rimmed sunglasses to wear as well.
- Pair sunglasses with a hat for added protection and a stylish look.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Wearing the Right Makeup

1
Keep your makeup to a minimum. There’s no need to wear a lot of makeup, as you’ll be getting wet, so try to keep it simple and light. This means you should ditch the foundation and blush for the day, as you don't want to appear streaky or get makeup everywhere.
- If you'd like to wear eye shadow, be sure to buy the waterproof kind. It comes in a tube that resembles lipstick and can easily be applied after you've been in the pool.^{[4]XResearch source}
- For any bags under your eyes, look for a waterproof under eye concealer. Keep in mind though, that a great pair of sunglasses goes a long way in concealing the bags under your eyes too!
2
Don’t forget lip gloss. Lip gloss is a simple and easy way to add a bit of color to your lips without going overboard.
- If you don't plan on getting in the pool, feel free to try a bold lip color, such as red. However, if you'll be enjoying the festivities both in and out of the water, buy a waterproof lipgloss. There are brands, which make lipgloss that lasts for up to 12 hours, despite being exposed to small amounts of water.
3
Wear waterproof mascara. When it comes to pool party makeup, waterproof mascara is a must. Always invest in a good, waterproof mascara. The last thing you want is to have raccoon eyes.
- Consider using a waterproof mascara that will also make your eyelashes appear thicker. You can also use two coats to add some extra volume.
- Apply your mascara before going to the party so that it has time to dry before you get into the water.
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Community Q&A

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Question
How do I stop a swimsuit from riding up?
Community Answer
That's extremely hard to do, so let's start from the beginning. Don't buy a bathing suit if it's "a little tight" but it's super cute. You want comfort first, then you can worry about being fashionable.
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Can I wear blue denim shorts with a white shirt?
Community Answer
Yes. That would be cute as a cover-up. You could also pair that with a cute pair of sandals.
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Question
I am having a pool party with all of my friends. I feel fat and I have bumps on my chest. I have a tankini, but there is a really deep V-neck. What should I do?
Community Answer
Wear something that makes you feel amazing. If that means wearing a one piece that is black (black makes you look slimmer), then do that.
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Tips

Always bring an extra change of clothes with you for when you're done swimming.
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Don't wear a bunch of flashy, expensive jewelry (gold chains, earrings, etc), as these often end up missing.
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Wear comfortable swimwear.
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