Pool party? Beach barbecue? Dayclub? (That’s a thing, right?) Going out in the summer often means being in a bathing suit for part of the time. So what to wear around it? We rounded up 13 tips, complete with advice on the best fabrics to combat heat, wardrobe basics that always work, and more.
Read on for our guide to poolside/beachside style, here.
1 Assume your clothes will get wet
Muzungu Sisters Frangipani Tiered Cotton Dress matchesfashion.com
$380.00
Opt for natural fabrics like cotton or linen that can handle the forecast.
2 Focus on your bottoms
Jacquemus Capri Fringe Tweed Skirt modaoperandi.com
$725.00
All you really need is a cute bottom when you’re wearing a one-piece bathing suit. We love this summery Jacquemus skirt, but denim cut-offs always work.
3 No pants, no problem
Cayo Bikini Bottom thereformation.com
$58.00
If you’re feeling carefree, we love how simple a t-shirt looks over a bikini.
4 Go simple with coveralls
Alexachung Denim Overalls net-a-porter.com
$500.00
Overalls are easy to wear over swimsuits.
5 Don’t forget a jacket
Zara Tie Dye Swimsuit zara.com
$39.90
When the sun goes down a lightweight jacket is key.
6 Accessories makes the look
I love this coordinating look from Cult Gaia, which sticks to a basketweave theme.
Tallulah Bean Bag, $198; cultgaia.com
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7 A white button-down is a classic solution
H&M Bikini Bottoms High Waist hm.com
$17.99
You probably own a white button-down for work. Convert it for the weekend by layering it over your swimsuit.
8 Sarong, it’s so right
Echo Pompom Pareo nordstrom.com
$55.00
A Pareo, interchangeable with the term sarong, is a large piece of fabric that can be worn as a skirt, dress, or scarf. With all these options, pareos are an easy-to-pack solution for any summer event.
9 Always wear a hat
Roxy x UO Floral Bucket Hat urbanoutfitters.com
$28.00
You can never have too much sun protection!
10 Dip your toes in a new print
& Other Stories Hawaiian Print Shorts stories.com
$55.00
Hawaiian print is one of the top trends of 2019. For a dad-on-vacation look, search your local tourist shops. There are feminine styles to choose from too, like this affordable set.
11 Try to avoid heels
Simon Miller Green Blackout Platform Sandals ssense.com
$490.00
If flat sandals aren’t for you, try platforms that won’t sink into the lawn.
12 Choose matching sets
Rachel Antonoff Vinita Pleated Skirt garmentory.com
$258.00
You match your bathing suit so you might as well coordinate your outfit. Printed sets are a fun for summer, and I love this prawn-printed look from Rachel Antonoff.
13 Wear a dress that rarely works elsewhere
Tory Burch Embroidered Beach Caftan toryburch.com
$498.00
Dresses are a sensible choice for pool parties, but how often do you get to wear a caftans? Every caftan opportunity should be seized with relish.
Justine Carreon Justine Carreon is the market editor at ELLE.com covering fashion, Dutch ovens, and fashion again.
