Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Brianna,

What a great summer question! If you think through every party scenario beforehand, you'll be totally prepared and style-confident. First of all, indulge in this summer's coolest accessory trend=D1an oversized tote bag. Tis' the season for all sorts of fun bag designs! You'll have your pick of great materials, from straw to plastic to funky flowered fabrics. Your chic bag of choice will hold the mini-wardrobe you'll bring along to these summer parties. I suggest picking out a comfortable, light outfit to wear for your arrival. This will be the same outfit (possibly with a few variations) that you'll put on later after swimming. A soft cotton summery dress or halter-top with denim shorts are both perfect. You might want to bring along a pair of light khakis or capri pants to wear for the evening. Next, find a pair of comfortable, water-proof slip-on sandals to wear with the outfit. Under the dress, you can either go with your normal undergarments (panties, bra, and slip), or put your bathing suit on. It depends on the party's itinerary. If you will be eating a meal and hanging out before you swim, then toss the bathing suit in the bag to change into later. If you plan on jumping in the water first chance you get, go ahead and wear the suit under the outfit and bring the undergarments for later. If you'll be in and out of the pool throughout the day, then you need a bathing suit cover for out-of-water socializing. A sarong is perfect for this. You can buy a sarong (look in the swim wear department) or find a large piece of soft fabric to wrap around your body. Sarongs can be tied at the bust, at the waist, or tied behind the neck and worn as a dress. Another option is a swim robe, which is totally different than a bath robe. Usually short-sleeved and above the knee, swim robes come in a range of colors and fabrics that will coordinate with your bathing suit. Put on a straw hat and sunglasses for a look straight out of Rio! Also into the bag toss a towel, sunscreen, deodorant, lip balm or light lip-gloss, waterproof mascara, hair comb, mirrored compact, and a plastic bag. These essentials will assure that you'll be fresh and groomed for the duration of the party. When you're done swimming, put your wet bathing suit in the plastic bag and change back into your original cute outfit! You might want to bring a light jacket in case the temperature drops after the sun sets. Hope this helps! Have an awesome summer!