Throughout the spring and summer seasons, you can expect to receive plenty of invites to hang out poolside with your friends. While most of us will gravitate toward a specific swimsuit style, picking out the rest of your outfit can pose a challenge. Not only do you have to take the weather and time of day into account, but you also want a look that is practical for long hours by the pool.

So, what’s the solution? Choosing pieces that are lightweight and versatile. If you’re headed to a daytime party by the beach, opt for a simple white tank top and shorts. Need to elevate your outfit for a nighttime event? You can never go wrong with a breezy sundress or a skirt paired with strappy sandals. Sticking to pieces that can easily be transformed from a coverup to a full-blown ‘fit will eliminate the need to pack an extra ensemble and allow you to have fun with your accessories.

Whether you’re jumping in the water or lounging poolside, we’ve compiled a list of 13 items you should wear to your next pool party.

A Sundress

A sundress is a warm-weather wardrobe staple that will never let you down. Its relaxed silhouette falls perfectly over a swimsuit and is also a comfortable option for those who simply like to lounge poolside. Elevate the look with strappy sandals, or keep it casual with flip-flops.

A Tube Top

We’re partial to a tube top for its nostalgic vibes and ability to pair seamlessly with any bottoms. You can throw on this top with everything from cargo shorts to a linen skirt for a playful look that still feels effortless. To dress up a tube top for a nighttime pool party, style it with a bolero and platform sandals.

Statement Sunglasses

Attending a pool party is the perfect opportunity to ditch your classic sunglasses for a more unique option. From a bold green hue to a cat-eye shape, sunglass styles with eye-catching designs will instantly take your look to the next level. To really make your sunglasses stand out, incorporate the color of your chosen pair into your outfit. 

A Wrap Skirt

Whether you rock it with a bikini or a matching top, a wrap skirt is the perfect bottoms for a flirty poolside look. Midi, mini, or asymmetrical – there are so many length options to choose from for a skirt that suits your tastes. If you gravitate toward statement pieces, opt for a wrap skirt with fringe or ruffle embellishments.

Denim Shorts

Cowgirl fashion is in, so don’t count out your trusty denim shorts for the ultimate cool-girl look. Opting for cutoff shorts will help you achieve a relaxed poolside look, but if you’re searching for more coverage, Bermuda shorts are an eye-catching and more modest option. To take your outfit one step further, consider denim shorts in a unique color like yellow or green. 

Platform Sandals

Chunky flip-flops are so early aughts and a practical footwear option for a pool party. You can easily slide them on and off for quick dips in the pool, but thanks to their platform design, they still make a fashion statement. For more classic options, opt for chunky platform sandals or strappy slides. 

A Linen Set

Linen is a breathable and lightweight fabric that is ideal for those especially warm days by the pool. Shorts and a button-down top look fantastic when paired with a swimsuit or bralette. But, for a more elegant take on the ensemble, we recommend a halter top and wide-leg pants. 

A Straw Bag

Add a personal touch to your ensemble by carrying a straw bag. This purse style is fashion-forward and extremely versatile. A straw tote will fit all your pool party essentials, including a towel and your favorite SPF, while a top-handle purse is a better fit for a sophisticated nighttime look. 

Overalls

Another practical one-piece option is overalls. They look casually cool when worn over a swimsuit with one strap undone but can also be paired with a T-shirt and a cardigan for an easy day-to-night look. On those sweltering summer days, consider short overalls or a pair made of lightweight fabric.

A Crochet Hat

Elevate your poolside headwear by reaching for a crochet hat. Whether it’s a bucket hat or a floppy sun hat, a crochet design will give your outfit a vintage flair. If you plan to wear a swimsuit, we recommend pairing your hat with a matching crochet bikini for a cohesive look. 

A Silk Scarf

For long days by the pool, pieces you can fashion into multiple looks are a saving grace. To tame any pesky flyaways, you can wear a silk scarf as a headband or a head scarf. But if you want to get more creative, wear your silk scarf as a halter top or a sarong for an ultra-cool look. 

A White Tank Top

Need a simple outfit for those times you’re rushing out the door? Grab a white tank top and throw it on with a pair of denim shorts or a mini skirt. It’s easy, comfortable, and looks good over a swimsuit or on its own. 

A Slouchy Sweater

Bringing a sweater isn’t usually top of mind for a pool party, but you’ll thank yourself later when the wind starts to hit. A slouchy oversized sweater can be slipped over any outfit for extra warmth and, when worn slightly off the shoulder, has an effortlessly chic vibe to it.