A pool party organised by RedIce at hotel Royal Plaza

In the sweltering heat, the serene blue pool is the perfect lure. Add to that bikini-clad, well-toned bodies, live music, refreshing beverages and of course, a dip — and it’s a perfect recipe for summer fun. As the temperatures are soaring, the season of pool parties has begun and the city’s hotspots and social circuit is gearing up for the big splash. We check out what is trending.

“The Hawaiian theme, flowers in hair, crazy sunglasses, exotic fruit coolers and innovative fruit drinks mixed with alcohol are all trending with respect to pool parties. Nowadays pool partying is synonymous with liberation, and not merely about shaking a leg, socialising and downing a few drinks. Barbeques, grills and live stations also add to the fun,” says Debjeet Banerjee, director, food and beverage, The Park. The hotel is planning to host pool parties on Sunday afternoons, complete with thatched roof island bar and cabanas.
Targeting the young party-goers over the weekends, the pool parties are increasingly being preferred over mundane get-togethers. “Pool games, floaters, deck chaira and live music creates a relaxing atmosphere to lounge around. Heady spirits and fruit coolers do wonders,” suggests Rajneesh Kumar, food and beverage manager, Courtyard, Marriott, Gurgaon. They are planning to host pool parties on Saturdays.
Redice Entertainments and Mangement, an event management company that organises pool parties in hotels and clubs, is busy with bookings for pool parties throughout the city. “Although it might look quite simple, planning a pool party requires certain innovation. This time we are looking at pole dance and other sexy acts to add a glam quotient. The music also needs to suit the open air setting and we are lining up international and national DJs for the same,” says Sam of Redice Entertainment and Mangement.
City socialites used to partying in clubs and air-conditioned premises, feel the idea of partying by the poolside is an interesting diversion. “At times, the indoor settings get to you and it gets claustrophobic. The idea of a poolside party in the daytime, where one can just lounge around, sip martinis and wear bright, colourful sarongs is such a welcome change. I try and never miss one,” says ex-model and socialite, Amanpreet Wahi.
Pool parties are also great places to flaunt your style quotient. If bikini is not your thing, try to mix and match.
“I would suggest, one can wear a swimsuit with a smart, short skirt or shorts, which can be done away with when one intends to take a splash. Also a scarf wound around the waist or on the head and bright eyewear will add some spunk. But do not forget to dab a lot of sunscreen on your body,” advises and reminds Narresh of the designer duo Shivan-Narresh.

How to plan the perfect pool party
Scene-stealers:
Try putting inflatable palm trees, cabanas and tiki statues around the pool to give an Hawaiian feel.

Seating style:
Let your guests lounge around in style by positioning chaise lounges, deck chairs around the pool and cover each chair with a brightly coloured towel for added comfort.

Flower power:
Position dining tables near the pool area and decorate them with pots of brightly coloured gerbera daisies.

Seaside story:
Sprinkle a runner of sand down each table and decorate with sea shells for a beach look.

Playtime props:
Cover the pool surface with rubber ducks, balls and balloons.

Floating flames:
When the sun starts to set, let in a few floating candles.

Sip, sip, hurray!
Apart from your food menu, stock loads of fruity coolers and spirits.