A: Dressing for an engagement party and dressing for a pool party sound like wildly different things, but you can combine pieces from each one in order to create an outfit that works for both. When creating your outfit, your first order of business is to dress for a special occasion.  Even though it’s a pool party, you want to dress in a way that respects the special celebration.  Then, taking into account the climate (sub-tropic) and venue (a pool), you’ll tailor your outfit for fun–and swimming. 

The base of your outfit will be your swimsuit.  Choose a suit worthy of a special occasion–one with special detailing, such as arched cutouts or metal fastenings.  On top of your swimsuit, add a sarong that’s pretty enough to serve as a cocktail dress–and large enough to cover your swimsuit in a sophisticated fashion.  When you’re not swimming, wear a pair of strappy sandals (but carry an extra pair of flip flops in your tote bag). 

Should the party be a more formal affair, we recommend a brightly colored, breezy dress over your swimsuit, paired with a sparkly necklace for an extra dash of formality.