By a mom who’s perfected the art of looking poolside fabulous -without ever stepping in.
Here’s the truth: I love the pool. I love watching my kids at the pool, taking pictures by the pool, and eating snacks near the pool. But get in? Oh no, sweetheart. This mama is strictly pool-adjacent. I’m the one in oversized sunnies, sipping an iced oat latte, coordinating towels and snacks like it’s a full-time job (because it is), and serving looks - not splashes.
So if you're like me - aka a dry deck goddess who still wants to look cute and feel cool - then it’s time you curated a summer capsule wardrobe that does all the things: keeps you comfortable, stylish, and just active enough to look like you might cannonball… but never actually will. Let’s dive in. (Figuratively, of course.)
👒 The Breezy Cover-Up That’s Doing All the Work
If your wardrobe had a best friend, this would be it. You want flowy, lightweight, and elevated enough that it doesn’t scream “leftover from 2009.”
👉 Top picks:
- Kimono-style cover-ups – Instant glam, zero effort.
- Shirt dress cover-ups – Looks like “resort casual,” even if you’re chasing a toddler with floaties.
- Gauzy jumpsuits – A bit bold, but hello hands-free chic.
💬 Real life: I wore a black kimono with gold embroidery to a pool party last summer and got asked if I was the event planner. I wasn’t. I just didn’t want to get wet.
👡 Slides or Sandals You Can Actually Run In (Gracefully-ish)
You need something that says “casual luxury” but won’t fly off mid-sprint when your 4-year-old decides to make a run for it near the deep end.
👉 Look for:
- Padded faux-leather slides (wipeable AND chic)
- Birkenstock-style sandals with arch support because... we’re moms, not martyrs
- Platform flip-flops for the drama (and the posture boost)
Bonus: Skip the strappy gladiators. They’re cute, but no one has time for all those buckles with wet hands and Goldfish crumbs.
👙 The Swimsuit You Might Wear (But Probably Won’t)
Yes, you need one just in case. No, you don’t have to get it wet. This is your “supportive but stylish” suit that pairs with your cover-up and says, “I could go in... if I wanted to.”
👉 Look for:
- Retro one-pieces with ruching = flattering and fashion-forward.
- High-waisted two-pieces = trendy but mom-life-approved.
- Wrap-front tankinis = the holy grail of lift, shape, and modest sass.
💬 Confession: I once wore a swimsuit under my cover-up all day and forgot it was there. Never got in the water, but felt very prepared.
👜 The Oversized Sunglasses + Hat Combo
This is your armor. Your shield. Your “I didn’t sleep last night but still look like I’m thriving” toolkit.
👉 Must-haves:
- Oversized sunnies – Extra points if they hide your undereye bags and your side-eye.
- Floppy straw hat – Practical, timeless, and makes every outfit 17% fancier.
- Bucket hat – Gen Z says it’s trendy. We say it hides 3-day-old dry shampoo. Win-win.
💧 The Hero Accessories That Pull It All Together
You don’t need much - just a few poolside staples that say “intentional” instead of “I got dressed while packing juice boxes.”
👉 Pack these:
- Gold or tortoiseshell hoops – lightweight and elevate everything.
- Acrylic bangles – waterproof and fun.
- A chic insulated tumbler – You know the one. It’s filled with caffeine or hydration, depending on the chaos level.
💬 Pro tip: No one needs to know your cute straw tote is full of snack wrappers and spare pull-ups. Just tuck a nice sarong on top. Instant sophistication.
Let’s be clear: Looking cute at the pool without getting in is an art. You’re there for vibes, supervision, hydration, and maybe a TikTok or two. You are the Director of Pool Day Operations. You deserve a wardrobe that respects that.
Looking cute at the pool doesn’t require a dip - just a little planning, a great hat, and the right mindset. So go ahead. Own that lounge chair. Coordinate those snacks. And work that cover-up like it’s your runway.
Because yes, you are that mom.
And frankly? That mom looks amazing!!
xoxo