Justin Bieber Swag Analysis – A Scientific Breakthrough
How to Make the Girls Scream
Contributing Writer Amanda Hanowitz
Ever ask yourself, “Why can’t I be like Justin Bieber?” Maybe you haven’t, but you should! Kid’s got swag like nobody’s business. Resist as you may, following Bieber’s lead may just get you a one way ticket to the lady of your dreams.
Urban Dictionary calls swag “the way in which you carry yourself… made up of your overall confidence, style, and demeanor.” Bieber is comprised of many aspects that make up his perfect swagged out composition.
16% The Hair
He was infamous for the ‘skater boy’ hair til he chopped it off and sold it on Ebay. Now he rocks the ultimate swag shag ‘do. His messy hair is intentionally imperfect, and perfect is what it is.
19% Flawless Complexion
There is not one imperfection atop that beautiful face. Even girls envy his complexion.
24% Style
He knows how to rock a graphic tee and skinny jeans, something every man should strive for.
32% Confidence
Bieber is one of the most confident people around. Maybe cause he’s like the most important person in the world to females 8 – 20. Maybe it’s his 23M+ twitter followers. Whatever the reason, Bieber glows and rocks confidence from every crevice of his body.
9% The Crotch Grab
I ask you this simple question: what do you remember Michael Jackson for? His nose, yes, but wouldn’t you also immediately think of the crotch grab? This is crucial for any rising star.
(editor’s note – LOL)
How to embrace your inner Bieber
- To get his flawless complexion, try some face wash. It can be found for a very inexpensive price at your local drug store
- Buy some new clothes, preferably some fresh graphic tees.
- Go to your barber and say, “Hello, I’d like to get the Bieber today.” They’ll know what you mean.
(editors note – they’ll also make fun of you for the rest of your life… so go to a salon) - For the crotch grab, we suggest practicing in front of the mirror before bringing it into the public. A crotch grab gone bad could do serious damage to your social life.
- Lastly, but certainly not least, confidence. This is key. Don’t overdo it. No one likes a cocky kid. Be subtle, allow your swag to do the talking. Walk the walk and talk the talk, but don’t trip or stutter.
In conclusion, like him or not, Bieber’s got it goin’ on. If you chose to ignore our advice, then so be it. Good luck. But for those of you intelligent enough to try to embody the Bieber, go forth young swagster. You could be a gentleman, anything she wants, never let your swag go.
The Ugliest Swimwear Ever
The Summer’s Ugliest Swimwear
Summer is here and one the most heinous crimes you can commit is trolling DC’s summer pool parties or nearby beaches wearing an ugly bathing suit. Stuffing yourself in a too teeny weeny bikini, looking like a doily, accentuating your muffin top…
We’ve exposed the worst of the worst.
Size Matters
I’m not busting on the size of the person, there is nothing wrong with being big and beautiful or a skinny bitch, but make sure your suit fits your body.
Squeezing into a bikini that’s too small, no matter what size you are, gives some serious muffin top.
The tight elastic waistbands meant to keep your bottoms on while you hit the surf also increase that muffin top. Nothing is more vulgar than a top that covers less than a band aid. Look for retailers who sell the top and bottom separately.
Try Victoria’s Secret, J Crew, Pac Sun, Roxy, or even Target where you can buy a top in a small and a bottom in a large or vice versa based on your shape.
Cutouts
Try to remember this is not Sports Illustrated or a runway.
Giselle and the model brigade can work swimsuits with intricate cutouts that look like Edward Scissorhands had his way with a one piece. But these suits never look how they should on the everyday girl.
Not only are they complicated to get on; they leave you with awkward tan lines.
Whiteout
Unless you are planning on never getting in the water, white swim suits are always see through.
Forget the lining, it might keep the sand off your crotch, but you’ll have every teenage boy and creepy old man lurking at you as you leave the water.
If you are planning on staying on dry land, make sure you have some color before debuting your white suit.
White is flattering, but not if you can’t tell where the suit begins and the skin ends.
Bejeweled and Bedazzled and Be-GROSS
Anything with tassels or fringe makes you look like you’re sitting down to dinner with the Pilgrims.
Why all this adornment? Beads and fake bejeweled numbers won’t last through that first dip in the pool. Half of them will fall off before you can make it to the boardwalk.
Keep it simple or you’ll find yourself re-gluing fake crystals on your bandeau top instead of enjoying your summer vacation.
Metallic and Denim
Metallic suits make you look like a baked potato ready for the grill. They also attract harmful rays.
Unless you want to be a spud with cancer cells sprouting below, stick to basic swimwear.
Another fail is denim swimwear. Save the denim for the rodeo or everyday outerwear, it doesn’t belong at the beach.
Stiletto vs. Swimwear
You’ve all seen it at a pool party. In walks the girl with a face full of makeup a bikini and a pair of stiletto heals better suited for the club.
First of all, it’s dangerous. One slip and you just cracked your head. Not to mention made yourself look like an idiot.
Plus, it makes you look like a stripper. Stick to a nice pair of sandals or wedges.
Saggy/Old/Faded
Nothing’s more gross than seeing someone with a saggy bottom. It looks like a pound of sand is dragging your backside down.
Chlorine and the sun do major damage on the color, elasticity, and form of a swimsuit.
To prolong the life of your suit, wash it in cold water after each use. If you must, use a mild liquid detergent, but never put it in the washing machine. That will help keep your suit alive for a longer period of time, though your suit won’t last forever.
Know when to toss it and hit the stores for a new one.
Gentlemen, you are not exempt!
Speedos
Guys typically have it easy when it comes to swimwear, but there are some serious no nos.
Nobody except Michael Phelps should be wearing a Speedo. I don’t care what country you are from, it’s just gross.
It’s not ironic and it’s not funny. It’s a banana hammock and meant for competitive swimmers only.
Underwear
If you’re ghetto then you’re probably wearing a pair of boxers and basketball shorts.
You probably think you have some big junk down there that needs support, which is BS. Stop it!
Male bathing suits have lining, you don’t need to double team. If you do, make sure it’s not exposed; it makes you look like you just robbed a liquor store.
Length
Lastly, get an average length.
Super short bathing suit bottoms are gross not sexy. This isn’t a Mr. Universe competition.
Super long trunks look ridiculous, they look like you are wearing clam diggers.
A Woman’s Take on Guys Graphic Tees
No lady wants to be seen with a badly dressed guy
Contributing Writer Amanda Hanowitz
Dressing well at the club is just as important for the dudes as it is for the ladies. I promise, I’m a lady myself. Chicks like a fresh dude who can pull off trends because let’s face it, if she looks too good, it’ll make you look bad.
Dressing nice eliminates one flaw and may distract from your many others.
Button downs are annoying and make you sweat. Try a tee! They’re easy, simple, and fresh.
The best part about being a dude, I would imagine, are:
- the little time it takes you to get ready
- you’re not worried about how your clothes hug your curves
- you don’t need to worry about showing off your ASSets
Unless of course you’re into that stuff, in which case may the skinny jean force be with you, I suppose.
Tips to Pulling Off a Graphic Tee
- Pair your tee with a nice pair of slim fitting jeans. We like to stay away from baggy farmer jeans since it’s 2012 and all.
- If you wear a light color on top try to pair it with a dark color on the bottom.
- Rocking a white graphic tee? Pair it with a pair of dark jeans. And vice versa.
- The one exception is the “dark on dark”. You can wear dark bottoms with a dark top. It’s simple and understated, exactly why the ladies always rock the LBD (little black dress) with black accessories.
- Do not try to reverse this and wear all white.
- Update your look with corduroys instead of jeans. They have the same fit, but add a little interest with the texture. Texture leads to swag. Swag leads to lady friends.
- For the nights when a t-shirt and jeans is too casual but you’d hate to leave your comfortable tee at home, fear not! Dress up your graphic tee with the help of a blazer or cardigan.These instantly add a dressy and cool component to any outfit. I mean, the blazer does derive from the suit, the dressiest and swaggiest outfit of all. And the cardigan just kills it.
Since graphic tees can say so much with so little, it is important to not over-complicate your outfit. Sometimes it’s important to let your gear speak for itself.
Singer22 has some dope graphic tees by Chaser.
Urban Outfitters has the ultimate selection of “cool guy” tees and tanks
Check out Vinny Chase and Axwell up top, rocking the Jacks & Jokers gear.
I believe every outfit yields a thousand judgements, just as a picture is worth a thousand words. So let every judgement about your outfit be one simple word: swag.
Above all else, your graphic tee says something about you: “I’m here, got mah beer and I don’t even have to try. #NaturalSwag”
An Owner’s Perspective on Nightlife Promotion
Nightclub Promotions: Now and Then
Panorama Productions owner Antonis Karagounis examines changing trends in DC nightlife promotions
We used to dance to Ace of Base, do the Macarena, and spice up our lives with everyone’s favorite girl group. Now it’s all about Avicii, “Call Me Maybe,” and LMFAO. In fashion, we’ve traded parachute pants and Jordans for skinny jeans and a resurgence of low-cut shoes.
More importantly, Washington, DC’s population has become younger and more educated. An influx of expendable income has caused significant growth in our city’s hospitality industry. New money has brought gentrification, cleaned up DC’s neighborhoods, and opened new bars, clubs, restaurants and hotels. DC is no longer just a “functional” city, but a “fun” city as well. Case and point, the weekly Glow parties (started in DC in 1999) were listed amongst the top 8 “Best U.S. Clubs” at Winter Music Conference in 2011 and 2012.
Perhaps the biggest change, however, is how we acquire information.
DC nightlife has always been a promoter-driven market.
The “scene” was once dominated by a select handful of event companies, including Panorama Productions, Masoud A Productions, Marc Barnes, Lindy Promo, Event Concepts, Buzzlife and Mad Power Unit. Of these, only Marc, Masoud, and Panorama are still relevant. The list of new clubs and bars, however, continues to grow.
This nightlife boom has ushered in a new mindset amongst workers and watered down what it once meant to be a “promoter.” How and why? Two reasons:
- Social media has destroyed the entry barrier to running a successful party or promotions company.
- Venues are opening without long-term business models or accurate assessments of consumer demand.
Social Media
The great equalizer? Not exactly.
Everyone and their grandmother has a Facebook page. If you have 1,000 friends and 200 Twitter followers then it’s easy to become a promoter, right?
This philosophy has saturated the market (and your news feed) with an overflow of pointless messages. Unless you’re a “real life” friend of this “promoter,” or actually like the DJ who’s performing, this information provides zero value to you. Simply put, Facebook has become a promoter’s playground.
Social media has basically eliminated the $5-10k start-up money promotions companies once needed for flyers, graphic designers, email lists and a website. Since there’s no longer an entry barrier, most of today’s promoters are “boom and bust.” They might bring a ton of people one night but fail to produce the next. This creates a high turnover rate and thus unpredictable and unreliable events.
10 years ago, a good promoter could bring 400 people to a single party. Today, most club owners are happy if a promoter can bring over 30. Now it usually takes 5-6 promotion groups to get a 400 capacity venue busy.
Ownership/Operations
Differentiate. And please, maintain control.
Far too many club owners have a skewed perception of how effective social media promotion really is. They’re placing the success and future of their venue(s) in the hands of amateurs looking for a quick buck. Kids with a lot of Facebook friends can walk into a venue and get any deal they want if an owner is desperate to pay next month’s rent. But these kids may leave the venue after a couple months. Then what? Without sustainable business models, these places often close down after just a few years.
New venues open and compete for the same crowd. DC is growing younger and deserves great entertainment, but the supply is outpacing the demand.
The list of nightclubs and bars keeps growing. There are outdoor parties, boat parties, pool parties, festivals, stadium concerts and more. Nightlife fans are overwhelmed!
While there will always be a new venue trying to capture a piece of the pie, most are failing to offer a different experience. Too many aspiring owners see another venue’s popularity and try to duplicate it. They’re borrowing (and stealing) the concept, design and even audience.
The best venues are the ones with resolute concepts that provide for a unique customer experience, not the ones who recycle. As the phrase goes, “often imitated but never duplicated!”
My Advice to Owners
As a nightclub, bar, or entertainment property owner, how can you resist letting Facebook all-stars run the show while still maximizing your bottom line? They key lies in your promoters.
KNOW YOUR PROMOTERS
A promoter’s crowd alters the concept of your space. Age, gender, sex, race, orientation, nationality, education, income – Understanding the demographic a promoter brings is critical to running a successful venue.
Telling promoters to “just bring people” without understanding who they bring generally doesn’t work unless your event is already well established.
SET EXPECTATIONS FOR YOUR PROMOTERS
Explain to them what type of clientele you’re looking for.
An all-Latin event can work great on the weekend at Cuba Libre. It’s a Latin restaurant/lounge. Weekend events at Barcode, an American restaurant/bar/lounge, require a top 40 mix. Barcode is, however, capable of hosting Latin events on an off-night. The DJ must work in some top 40 with their Latin mix to accommodate everyone.
Bottom line: Don’t let promoters alter the concept of your place. Cut them slack on off-nights but maintain control.
DO NOT TAKE THE EASY WAY OUT
While giving a night to promoters is an easy way to boost revenue, it’s temporary and dangerous.
You’re allowing someone with no vested interest in your business to control the brand. Next thing you know, your promoters are leaving for a newer, trendier place; or one that pays better. And what do you have left?
NEVER LET PROMOTERS RUN YOUR OPERATIONS
DO NOT let promoters check IDs, hire security, run your table lists, book your DJs, etc. This is your business. You will inevitably lose your liquor license with operations in the hands of promoters.
At many ABC hearings, not surprisingly, I’ve heard owners justify their liquor law violations by blaming the promoters who ran the night.
Conclusion
Is promoting as we once knew it really dead? Not exactly. While remnants of old school tactics still exist, the times have certainly changed. There’s more clutter and a lot more amateurs out there. But the fundamental idea still exists: people want to have fun. They need a resource directing them to the best parties in town. As one of my dear friends, and in many ways a mentor likes to put it:
“The value of a promoter is not what he brings to your business, but what he takes away when he decides to leave.”
— Masoud A
I’ll leave you with this:
Social media is powerful when utilized correctly. Watch out for confident amateurs with lots of friends and zero track record. Before opening a new venue, make sure there’s actual consumer need in both your neighborhood and city. Evaluate whether your property will be a boom-bust craze or a sustainable business.
With so many choices and information thrown at today’s nightlife crowd, only organized parties with strong promotions will remain standing at the end of the day.
Electronic Age Gives Birth to Electronic Cigarettes
Smoke Screen Lifts in DC as Cigarette Alternative Gains Popularity
Ever since DC’s 2006 indoor smoking ban for bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and other public places, some smokers have been Jones-ing for alternatives.
The birth of the E-Cigarette
With the ban of cigarettes in DC’s indoor public places, along came the bastard child of the cancer stick: the electronic cigarette. It’s designed to deliver the experience of smoking without the adverse health effects usually associated with tobacco smoke.
What?
An electrical device that simulates the act of tobacco smoking, bearing the physical sensation and appearance of inhaled tobacco smoke without its odor or health risks.
Hundreds of different flavor varieties are available. Some flavors resemble traditional cigarette types, such as regular tobacco and menthol, and some even claim to mimic specific cigarette brands, such as Marlboro or Camel. A wide variety of food flavors are also sold, from the traditional (vanilla, coffee, cola) to the more unusual (strawberry daiquiri, Boston cream pie).
How?
An estimated 2.5 million people are now inhaling nicotine through a battery-operated device that heats liquid to make vapor, taking the fire, tar, and many other cancer-causing chemicals found in cigarettes out of smoking.
Why?
At first glance, these fake puffers look a little ridiculous. Think “non-alcoholic beer.” Yet e-cigarettes have grown up since a disposable cigarette alternative with a weak battery began appearing in convenience stores a few years ago. The rechargeable, next-generation device is sold in tobacco stores and has been said to help some smokers quit nicotine, saving them thousands of dollars (and their lives).
Loopholes
Can’t give up the love of puffing? Some DC clubs and restaurants offer some ways to side-step the smoking ban… kind of.
Patio/Rooftop Bars
Places like Lima Lounge, Barcode, Ozio, Eden and Current DC allow smoking in their outdoor areas.
Hookah Bars
Hookahs have cropped up in several area spots like Barcode, Chi Cha Lounge, Gazuza, Queen’s Café & Hookah, and Soussi.
For a full list of DC Hookah bars check here!
Cigar Bars
Wanna look like a ganster? Try a cigar at Lima Lounge’s patio, Ozio, Shelly’s Back Room, Fur Nightclub, Havana’s Man Cave Cigar Club, or Old Glory.
A Girl’s Summer Fashion Guide to Lace & Crochet
Let’s Get Lacy Racy
Contributing Writer Amanda Hanowitz
When I think of summer only two things come to mind: lace and crochet… and lots of it. They’re really one in the same.
So let’s play the lacy racy game! Kidding, there’s no game. But you should go buy some.
Not all lace is racy, by the way. It just rhymes and sounds cool and should make you want to wear it more.
And there’s lots of ways to wear it!
- Crochet can be glued onto jean shorts.
I’m not telling you to buy a glue gun and ruin your favorite shorts, though it may be a fun project.
I’m pleading for you to go guy the cutest jean shorts you ever did see.
(Crochet Bonita Cutoff Shorts on Nasty Gal, Lacey Denim Cutoff Shorts from Free People) - Going to the beach and think you can’t look fly? Think again! Rock a crochet bikini! It’ll have you saying, “I’m confident and cool, I can even rock crochet in a pool.”
(Belle Crochet Beandeau top from Victoria’s Secret) - Another thing that comes to fashion mind when the topic of summer arises is the sundress, duh. Sundresses are the perfect warm weather staple. They’re oh so easy to wear and instantly make you pretty and put together. Update the classic sundress with an edgier lace alternative.
(Sleeveless Miles of Lace Dress from Free People).Why not wear a lace dress and frolic around the club like a carefree soul who didn’t take long to get ready but still kills it.
Last and maybe most important: How you can rock this lace or crochet look at the clubs?
We’ve previously talked about how the bralette is taking over. You can rock the lace bralette and kill two looks with one piece!
(Zinke Lace Crop Bralette on Free People)
Maybe wear a top with lace accents, for those of you who like to keep it simple.
This way, you can show other club-goers how cool you are for getting down with the trends while still remaining true to your laid back style.
(Wave Crochet Lace Top from Wasteland)
It’s time to get racy, ladies, and we insist, go buy some lacy.
Mirror Madness: The Art of Douchey Self-Portraits
Myspace Photos 2.0
Facebook is a self-indulgent social media vehicle that speaks volumes about your character without saying a word. The old saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” is definitely true when it comes to Facebook photos!
Do people really care about your beer pyramid, DJ studio, or latest dinner out? NO!
Even the above Facebook offenses are easy to overlook in comparison to the most obnoxious social media content ever: the SELF INDULGENT DOUCHE mirror self-portraits!
Things you’ll see in a Facebook self-portrait:
- Excessive tanning and tattoos
- Roided out gym pictures
- Crotch grabs and whale tail
- Flash bulb reflections and glares
- Fish faces
- Pregnant women… yes, big bellies
- Girls with white-blonde hair and black extensions peaking out (the zebra tresses)
- Ed Hardy galore – from tipped hats to tiger dresses
If you think a self-portrait mirror shot makes you look cool, original, or desirable, you have been severely mislead.
What leads to a mirror shot?
If you have a conventional routine, you typically wake up, get ready for work or school, eat breakfast, answer some emails, and check Facebook before heading out the door.
When in that limited time does someone decide it’s time for a photo shoot in the bathroom with the trusty iPhone?
Well, if you’re a narcissist…
Glamour Shot vs. Mirror Pics
Remember that mall phenomenon, “The Glamour Shot?” AT LEAST a Glamour Shot session involves a photographer and room without a toilet in the background!
Why do you have 2000 Facebook “friends” and not a single one can take a photo for you? If you can’t find a friend to take a picture of you, perhaps it’s time to get out of the bathroom and meet people who don’t live on Facebook. The least you could do is put up some clean folded towels and wipe the pubes from the sink.
Who, me?
Sometimes the actual posers aren’t the worst. Rather, it’s the dumb expression on their face as they look off in the distance, as if to say, “I was caught off guard!”
Wow, what a surprise! “I didn’t know I was even taking a picture of myself, even though my hand is caught literally on camera, in the mirror!”
If you MUST take a mirror picture, consider these easy enhancements:
- Camera with self-timer function
- Tripod
- Remote-control shutter release
- Lighting
So the next time you bench 200 lbs at the gym, get all slutty before hitting the DC’s hottest club, or bought that new Ed Hardy hat, practice some self control in front of that mirror and save it for the club photogs!
It’s Cool to Wear Just Underwear
Ladies, Go Buy Now: Underwear as Outerwear
Contributing Writer Amanda Hanowitz
So you’ve successfully completed steps 1 and 2 of how to keep yourself cool.
Still not satisfied? Still a little sweaty at the club? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Go topless!
Kidding. We know it’s DC nightlife but no, I’m not really telling you to rock out with your TaTas out.
Step 3: Try the bralette.
You may not recognize step three by its name but you’ll know it when ya see it. We’ve all seen girls raging on guys’ shoulders wearing nothing but a bra.
They’re rocking the bralette.
And they’re keeping it real!!
We’ve seen it before: a trendy patterned bra peeking out of a chick’s graphic tank. Only now it’s not meant to be concealed! (amazing selection at Freepeople)
The bralette is typical party attire. It can be worn underneath it all or as your main garment of choice. You can even go in wearing it as a bra and come out wearing it as a shirt. It’s the best of both worlds.
This brings me to my main tangent. Underwear as outerwear. Anything goes.
You no longer have to conceal your undergarments; instead parade them around for all to see.
But be cautious.
The bralette is more appropriate than your average bra. If you take off your shirt and reveal a Calvin Klein lace push up bra, get out. But if you rip your graphic, fringed tank off and reveal a floral print cropped tank, you’re in the clear! (check em out at Urban Outfitters)
Also, this look is probably best kept in a club. Wearing a bra in public, whether or not it has the suffix “-lette”, is not 100% acceptable. Determine your surroundings. Hopefully your topknot isn’t so tight that it affects your decision making skills.
Be smart, no one wants to see your parts.
No One Likes a Sweaty Girl
Don’t sweat it! The topknot is here to help.
Contributing Writer Amanda Hanowitz
Think of a night clubbing in DC. What comes to mind? Screaming, dancing and hanging with your friends. What about sweating?
If sweating doesn’t enter your mind, I’m not entirely sure what kind of clubs you go to.
Sweating at the club is inevitable. It’s like feeling guilty after eating too many cupcakes: shit happens naturally. It’s all too familiar… You’re having a great time with your friends and you start to sweat a little. Totally acceptable. Then a little turns into a lot. Now you’re dripping.
It’s no fun for anyone. You’re drenched and people are staring. At the very least your hair is sticking to your face. It’s really not a cute look.
What if we told you there is a trendy solution for the sweats? A way to keep your wetness in check.
Step 1: Deodorant. But that’s not what we mean, silly party people.
Step 2: Try the topknot.
You may be asking yourself, “What the F***’s a topknot??!”
top•knot [top-not]
noun
1. A sleek and chic ballet bun that one can plop on top of her head to remain cool. Cool as in trendy, but also as in free of heat!
2. Thinking you’re the sh*t… but you’re not. See: Douchey girl photo poses. Obnoxious things people do in the club. Guys who order chick drinks.
Topknots are all the rage these days, just ask Lauren Conrad or Whitney Port. These ladies know how to plop that knot on top of their heads, making them look all carefree and stuff.
Interested yet? You should be.
You may be one of those people who wants options for their hair. Maybe you hate the idea of a sleek bun on top of your head. Fear no more! There are many different ways to go about the topknot.
- The Ballet Bun – This should be familiar for the ladies who used to do ballet. This is your typical ballerina bun: tight, sleek, and compact.
- The Messy Topknot aka The Fun Bun – The messier, carefree version of the ballet bun. The greatest part about this is you can do it once you get to the club. That’s right, you can enter the club with wild and free flowing hair but leave a topknotted professional.
So next time you’re feeling down and just a little bit overheated, remember, don’t sweat it, the topknot is here to help.
Get Wet this Summer in DC
DC Summer Pool and Pool Party Guide
One may imagine a DC pool party to be a sea of pale coeds mixed in with politicians in American flag draped Speedos donning their white socks, dress shoes and bow ties. Ladies would be showing off their giant hats and cowering under the poolside umbrellas.
Contrary to DC’s conservative reputation, DC boasts several summer pool parties that look more like the left overs still hanging on for dear life from last’s night revelry in the DC nightclubs and bars. This guide will offer the best in poolsides in DC, even if it’s just a hole with water in it so you can cool off!
The Capitol Skyline Hotel
Where: 10 I St SW, Washington DC
What:
Voted DC’s #1 Pool three years running by The Washingtonian.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, it’s not hard for guests to feel as if they have left the city for a more exotic destination. Visit the poolside bar. Enjoy some food from the grill. Mingle or just relax.
Renowned for lively parties Saturdays and Sundays
Mother Trucker, seven Saturdays this summer starting May 19, 11am-7pm, $15 to enter pool area
- 10 bars will be slinging mixed drinks and beer
- 20 food trucks decamped in the parking lot
- Four local DJs spinning all day
- Fire-breathers, aerial artists, multiple moon bounces and a giant Slip ’N Slide on the parking deck
Adult Swim, hosted by, Liquid Lifestyle Sundays this summer starting May 27, noon-6pm (private soft-launch May 20, 2-5pm), $20. Tables are $500, including 2 bottles.
- Six bars
- Bottle service (champagne and liquor)
- A giant grill turning out burgers and dogs all day
- Local DJs, along with live musicians like bongo drummers and saxophonists
- Blow-up pool toys and costumed dancers throughout the day
Two summers ago, the Capitol Skyline’s 17,000 square feet pool party event was featured on MTV’s the Real World when the cast made a cameo appearance. The pool also received coverage from the Washington Post, and DC Magazine.
Adult Swimmers can stay the night at the Capitol Skyline Hotel for the special room rate of $99 by visiting http://www.CapitolSkyl… and entering promo code “ADULT”.
To RSVP, patrons must text their full names to 202-RESERVE. After 1 p.m. or without a text RSVP, cover charge is $20 at the door. For additional information, visit www.DCPOOLPARTY.com.
Fees: Single: $325 (Summer all access pass)
Donovan Hotel
Where: 1155 14th St. NW
What:
Situated on the rooftop of Donovan House, this Thompson hotel is home to a smaller pool, which is more of a trendy place to see and be seen rather than swim. The pool’s bar menu features fare from the hotel’s signature restaurant ZENTAN, specialty cocktails, and an extensive wine list, making it ideal for an early cocktail or a late-night rendezvous in a beautiful setting.
The swimming pool is reserved for hotel guests only during the day.
When:
Pool Hours:
- Monday-Friday 7 am – 6 pm
- Saturday & Sunday 7 am – 7 pm
Bar Hours:
- Monday-Friday 5 pm – 1 am
- Saturday & Sunday 7 pm – 1 am
- Last call 12:45 am
Liaison Capitol Hill
Where: 415 New Jersey Avenue NW DC
What:
Sit by the pool after a long day bumping elbows with the politicians on the Hill then come relax at the rooftop pool. The Hill’s one-and-only rooftop pool and bar offers drinks and food and yoga to the public and hotel guests.
No room booked? No problem! The open-air rooftop bar offers free admission daily after 5PM. If you want to soak up the rays and work on that skin cancer, buy a day pass for $20.
When:
The pool is open May 14- Labor Day:
- Swimming: 10am-10pm
- Bar Open: 11am-11pm
- Relax and unwind until midnight
Hilton Embassy Row
Where: 2015 Massachussetts between 20th and 21st
What:
Get a bird eye view of the embassies that line embassies that line Massachusetts Avenue while sitting by the heated outdoor pool and sprawling deck from May until October! Just walk up to the front desk, ask for a day pass to the pool, and pay $15 for a day in the sun and enjoy some nice views of Dupont Circle from its rooftop.
When:
- The pool is open May 1-Oct 31
- Monday – Sunday: 6am – 10pm
Washington Plaza Hotel
Where: 10 Thomas Circle NW DC
What:
Located on Thomas Circle, this hotel is more like a DC resort steps from iconic nation’s capital attractions and nightlife. Probably DC’s most beautifully landscaped swimming pool, it’s ideal for relaxing, with al fresco dining.
When:
- The pool is open May 19- Sept 9
- A day pass $50
- A season pass $800/single or $1400/couple.
Or check out the DC Department of Parks and Recreation local pools with free access for DC residents.
Francis Outdoor Pool: Francis Pool is listed as an “aquatic gem” with three pool areas of varying depths. Francis is a great place to cool off and is free to DC residents.
- Where: 2435 N Street, NW
- When: Mon-Fri 1:00pm – 8:00pm; Sat & Sun 12:00pm – 6:00pm (Closed Tues)
Wilson Aquatic Center: Wilson Aquatic Center is a great place to swim, especially if you prefer the shade to the sun. The facility offers a large 50-meter lap pool, a leisure pool, and a whirlpool.
- Where: 4551 Fort Drive, NW
- When: Mon-Fri 6:00am – 9:00pm; Sat, Sun 9:00am – 5:00pm
Volta Park Outdoor Pool: This popular pool spot is located in the heart of Georgetown. The Volta Park Pool is surrounded by a “green oasis” and includes other facilities for summer fun such as tennis & basketball courts and a playground for children.
- Where: 1555 34th Street, NW
- When: Mon-Fri 1:00pm – 8:00pm, Lap Swim 8:00am – 9:30am; Sat & Sun 12:00pm – 6:00pm (Closed Mon)
Not a DC resident? No problem DPR charges $7 for daily passes.
