Written by Orla Lavery in Essentials on the 5th August 2022

For effortless poolside dressing we take our cues from the Master of swimming-pool style, Slim Aarons. The iconic photographer became prolific in mid-century Hollywood for documenting the leisurely lives of socialites, celebrities and jetsetters; often against a backdrop of white-washed, mid-century architecture, dramatic landscapes and, most notably, his brilliant blue pools. The images, now emblematic of the era, became iconic due to his ability to capture his immaculately dressed, tanned flesh figures, seemingly so casually in the hyper-stylised settings. In doing so, Aarons transformed ‘The Pool’ from leisurely exercise locale, to cultural institution for the fashionable elite. And thus, the cult of poolside dressing was born. From swimwear to deckchair, to non-greasy sun creams, these eight poolside style essentials will have you serving Slim Aarons poolside elegance all day long.

1. Easy-on-the-Eye(s)wear 

Starting from the top, and perhaps the most important of poolside style essentials - sunglasses. We recommend going classic with tortoise shell or soft gold frames. These pairs from Gucci and Prada sport an easy-to-wear, timeless shape that will suit most faces and last the test of time.

2. Staying Fresh 

Another oft-neglected poolside staple is your scent. Pick a fragrance with a mix of fresh and woody base notes for staying power (i.e., woody eau de parfums, over floral eau de toilettes). Inspired by the vibrant trees that line the Mediterranean, Tom Ford’s Fleur de Portofino is a fresh and intoxicatingly summery scent that strikes the perfect balance between playful top notes and a strong, woody staying-power… if you’re committed enough to bring your fragrance poolside, the bottle couldn’t be more fitting!

3. Cooling Poolside SPFs 

Fragrance isn’t the only thing you should be spritzing to maintain a sense of effortless, poolside ease. These facial mists will keep you cool, while keeping skin protected and hydrated in the heat. The Korres ginseng hyaluronic splash suncream is the ultimate all-in-one for keeping skin hydrated, protected and cool in the sun!

4. Bottoms-Up 

A final note on hydration, and not just for your skin’s sake, but your head too - bring a large bottle of water in a cool, non-clear flask for the best way to keep water cool and stay hydrated. Try to drink roughly 250ml (one glass) for every alcohol-based drink you imbibe! For more exciting (alcohol-based) tipples, start with something fresh and light – a gin basil or a blood orange martini goes down easily poolside. As the sun starts to go down, negronis are the way to go.

5. Statement Trunks 

When it comes to trunks, the bolder the better… well, sort of. A good statement print can look well-styled with little effort required. We love OAS’ pale blue and Sicilian lemon-printed shorts. For a subtler but still statement print, Love Brand & Co.’s latest capsule collection just launched at Harrods. We love the Elephant Palace Trunks, which look especially elephgant paired with an open, light linen shirt.

6. Poolside Haircare 

Oribe’s signature Rough Luxury Rock Hard gel is one of the leading men’s hair styling products for a reason. Amazing hold with little residue, the product also provides UV protection hair, ideal when spending long periods in the sun. Work through damp hair and style to dry. This product should maintain some of its staying power even when frequenting the pool!

7. Clean, Comfortable and Easy-to-Transition from Footwear 

For poolside footwear, keep it classic, comfortable and easy. The Havaianas Urban Specials in brown leather are perfect for versatile, slip-on / slip-off poolside transitions. The rubber base makes them easy to maintain and keep clean, while minimising any aesthetic damage from water.

8. A Place to Rest 

Of course, no poolside lewk is complete without striped deck chair… we love Maison du Monde’s red and white striped chair. Or, for something simpler, the off-white, ecru fabric makes for the perfect minimalist’s poolside lounger. For slightly more luxurious lounging, this eucalyptus wood lounder from Zara Home is perfect for poolside elegance. Top with a yellow, wide-striped towel for a cabana-style finish worthy of an Aarons photograph.

Easy-on-the-Eye(s)wear, Staying Fresh, Cooling Poolside SPFs, Bottoms-Up, Statement Trunks, and Poolside Haircare are among the 8 Men's Poolside Style Essentials.