Your Poolside Playbook: How to Style Your Swimwear

When we’re wearing less, the little details matter even more.

Style doesn’t have to get thrown to the wayside with the tide. 

Whether you’re soaking up the sun by the luxurious sands of La Pelosa or lounging by a blue pool in Bexley, intentionally styling your swimwear allows you to feel confident no matter where you’re wearing your look.

By incorporating light layers and enhanced accessories, your swim attire can feel as empowering as any other outfit you wear. 

Not sure where to start? We’re here to help!

Our personal styling team is diving into the details: Read on to discover our insider tips and tricks for styling a suit.


Let’s Talk Linen

If summer had a signature fabric, it would be linen. It feels easy and effortless, all the while evoking that elevated, European aesthetic. 

We love incorporating linen into swim styling for its lightweight breathability and ability to pair well with every silhouette. 

Consider adding one linen layer in the form of a wide-leg pant for a flowing effect. For a look that can go pool to table side, consider a full short and top set.

Our Linen Picks:


Bye-Bye Basic Beach Bags

Who says you have to carry your SPF and sunnies in that old tote bag you’ve had since 1997? 

The bag you’re holding can carry more than what you need — it can carry your look into a whole new level.

Invest in a tote bag that speaks to your style without sacrificing the much needed space to store your poolside goodies.

We’re loving bags with structured shapes and made out of textured materials.

Our Bag Picks:


A Match(ing Set) Made in Heaven

Coordinated looks don’t have to stop at your closet’s everyday attire. 

We’re loving how some of our favorite brands like Vitamin A offer separate swimwear and clothing options in the same print or shade, making it easier than ever to create a cohesive look.

Making your outfit a set allows you the fashion freedom to lose a layer when you go for a dive in the deep end without losing the look itself.


Our Matching Set Pick:


Step Into Style

Sometimes, what we walk in does the talking for us. 

It’s time to exile those old rubber flip-flops that keep flipping and getting caught under your feet. 

Enter: polished pairs of poolside footwear that can handle a tiny splash while keeping you stylish.

Upgrading from a flip-flop to a slide or jelly sandal keeps the ease while adding elevation.

Here are some of the selections we’re enjoying this summer.

Our Shoe Picks:

Stylist tip: Avoid black soles that heat up quickly under the sun. Go for whites, neutrals, or light metallics for comfort and style. If the darker aesthetic completes your look, be sure to store them under your beach or lawn chair.


Nothing Like Knitwear

Knitwear is the not-so-secret weapon to poolside layering we’ve been loving for years now, and for good reason:

The open-weave grants both breathability and a peek at the swimwear playing below the surface.

Choose from pullover pants to full-length kaftans to customize your level of coverage to your personalized preference. 

Find the right balance between relaxed and refined by finding the right knit for you.

Our Knitwear Picks:


Top it Off

We’ve talked about ways to add layers like linen on top of your swimwear.

But, what about adding something on top of the wearer themselves? 

Hats are such a great way to bring both style and some much-needed shade to your outfit.

Consider bringing your look to a new level with the class of a brimmed straw hat.

Or, indulge in the everyday comfort of a bright white cap to complete your outfit.

Our Hat Picks:


Consider Your Swim Look, Styled.

We hope you’ve found some inspo for your swimwear look book to lean into this season!

For a more personalized ensemble tailored to your taste, destination, and lifestyle, book an appointment with one of our personal stylists today.

PS — Need advice on which sunnies to pair with your perfected look?

Stay tuned for next week’s blog! Subscribe now if you haven’t already.


Gently worn, greatly needed:

We’re accepting used bra donations for Freedom a la Cart

Need to make room in your drawers after attending our Lace & Day trunk show? Or do you simply have bras you’re no longer wearing that are ready for a second life?
We’re collecting gently used bras to donate to Freedom a la Cart, a local nonprofit that empowers survivors of sex trafficking. To join in on the good cause, you can simply provide them to your stylist at your next appointment.

Keep Making Everyday a Runway!

Follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and LinkedIn for styling tips, outfit inspiration, team updates, fashion news, and so much more!

Picture credits: All graphic images elements used in this blog were sourced from their respective linked product sites. Featured image in intro and closing paragraphs sourced from Pinterest (photographer information unavailable to credit.)

Elizabeth Bean Smith

Elizabeth is the Founder & Co-Owner of Wardrobe Therapy. She founded the company in 2006 for individuals seeking help with their personal style and image.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *