Headed to a spa for some TLC? Learn exactly what to wear to the spa for massages, body treatments, swimming, and more. Plus, get chic outfit ideas to inspire you!
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What To Wear To The Spa
Planning the first trip to a spa can feel overwhelming! You may be wondering what exactly to wear at the spa. Do you need different clothing depending on the treatments booked? Will you be in a robe most of the time? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
We will cover exactly what to wear to the spa, at the spa, for different treatments, and how to wear your hair and makeup. You’ll also learn about robes, footwear, and what to expect when it comes to spa attire.
Additionally, we’ve compiled some great outfit ideas for different spa treatments and scenarios. Every spa is a little different, but whether you are going to a day spa, resort spa, or nordic spa, we’ll get you set on your way!
What should I bring to a spa day?
Before you head to the spa for a luxurious spa day, pack the following items:
- Tote bag – for bringing along all your personal belongings
- Pool sandals or flip flops – for the spa pool, showers, and to keep your toes free if you’ve had a pedicure
- Swimsuit – if the spa has a steam room, whirlpool, or swimming pool
- Small waterproof bag – for wet clothing/swimsuit
- Hair ties/scrunchies/claw clips – you’ll want your hair up and out of the way for massages, etc.
- Brush, makeup, personal toiletries – to freshen up before you leave
- Book – optional, for easy reading while you are relaxing
Most spas have lockers in the change rooms to store your personal belongings. Additionally, you may want to bring your own robe if the spa does not provide them (check ahead to see).
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Whats the best thing to wear for a spa day?
A comfortable outfit is the best option for a spa day. Even though you’ll be changing into a robe when you arrive, loose and comfortable clothing to slip into at the end when in full relaxation mode is best. Below are some great outfit options:
If visiting a high-end spa or spa resort, contacting the spa ahead of time to ask about the dress code (if any) is always a great idea.
Can you wear clothes in a spa?
One of the most common questions about spa attire is: are clothes required? Almost all spas offer a robe and slippers upon arrival. Guests can then decide how far they strip down and it’s all up to individual comfort level.
If the spa does not provide a robe, then it is expected to remain in clothing (or your own robe) for the duration of the spa visit aside from massage treatments.If provided a robe, some people prefer to be completely nude, while others like to dress in underwear and a bra.
Furthermore, some people feel more comfortable with a pair of shorts and a tank top underneath their robe. Or, a swimsuit, if there is a steam room, whirlpool, or swimming pool at the spa. Ultimately, your comfort level is most important so do not feel pressured to strip down if you aren’t up for it.
Do you take your bra off at the spa?
It depends! Many people choose to leave it on under their robe, and some like to take it off.However, when getting a massage, it’s best to remove it to enjoy the full massage experience. You can remove your bra just before the session if you are comfortable doing so.
It is good to know that massage therapists are trained in draping techniques to make sure your private parts are always covered during the session. In short, you do not need to worry about being exposed.
When getting a body wrap treatment, you may keep your bra and underwear on. Or, wear a swimsuit during the treatment. Some spas also provide disposable underwear to put on to prevent oils, lotions, or scrubs from damaging clothing.
Do you wear makeup to a spa?
There is nothing wrong with wearing making to a spa. Especially if heading to the spa after a busy day. Once you arrive you will have the chance to wash your face if you wish.
If getting a facial, your makeup will be removed by the esthetician. Most spas have shower facilities in the change rooms so you can remove your makeup before, during, or after your spa day.
If headed to the spa first thing in the morning, we recommend arriving with a fresh face. Simply apply makeup before leaving and you’ll be glowing!
get the look:
Chic Spa Outfits For Ladies
Now that we’ve covered the basics for what to wear to the spa, let’s look at some comfortable and chic outfit ideas. The goal here is always to achieve a look that reads“elevated comfort”. Simply put, comfortable clothing that still looks chic and classy.
What to wear to a spa facial
get the look:
When going for a facial at the spa, you’ll likely get a robe upon arrival. When you go in for the facial you’ll remove the robe and lie on the treatment table under the sheets.
You can go braless or if you prefer, go with a strapless bra or bandeau top. This way you won’t get any lotions or serums on your shirt or bra straps. Additionally, don’t forget to remove any jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, or facial piercings.
We love the this light and airy outfit above for a spa facial. The simple bandeau top and pants combo is elevated comfort with a blazer that is very chic. You can easily wear this to the spa and leave the bandeau top on for your facial.
What to wear to a spa massage
get the look:
Getting a massage is one of the best parts about a spa experience. But, when it’s over, the last thing you’ll want to do is get dressed in tight, restrictive clothing(ie. a pair of rigid denim jeans).
A comfortable, cozy matching cotton tracksuit or sweatsuit is the perfect outfit pre and post-massage. Additionally, you want to avoid delicate clothing that could get damaged from any remaining massage oil left on your skin.
Choose from a sweatshirt and shorts set for a warm day, or go with a cozy pant set for cooler days.
What to wear to the spa pool
get the look:
If you are visiting a nordic spa, or a resort spa with a whirlpool, swimming pool, and/or steam room, you’ll need to bring a swimsuit. While there are some nude spas in the United States, most require swimsuits in the pool and steam room areas.
Wear your normal clothing to the spa (or one of the options on this list), and slip into a comfortable swimsuit at the spa. We recommend going with a simple suit without too many ties or embellishments. The last thing you want while trying to relax is to be fiddling with your outfit.
Additionally, it’s best to wear a swimsuit that has more coverage as most spas have an upscale environment. In short, save the string bikini for the beach dance party environment instead.
“Spa Day” outfits
get the look:
If you are headed for a spa day with your girlfriends, go with a casual and comfortable outfit like the one above. The tank and trousers are relaxed, yet elevated. And, the white button up top is great for an added layer.
Sandals are the perfect footwear for after a pedicure. And, putting your hair up in a claw is a fuss-free style for all kinds of spa treatments.
get the look:
Another lovely spa day outfit is a simple look button-up shirt dress. It’s light, airy, and comfortable, and can take you from the spa to running errands, or meeting friends afterwards.
The button-up style is great for throwing on after a massage or putting over top a swimsuit if you’ve been spending the day at a resort spa.
Brunch + spa outfits
get the look:
A pretty maxi dress is a great way to feel put-together going to and from the spa. Especially if you are planning brunch or lunch as part of your day as well.Maxi dresses are comfortable, easy to get on and off, and are not restrictive.Simply put, they are the perfect post-relaxation outfit for warmer seasons.
Alternatively, if you are headed to the spa in the fall or a cooler season and still want to go with a maxi dress, give the sweater dress coming up on this list a try.
get the look:
This spa outfit has a great blend of “light and airy” with “cozy comfort”. You can easily go to and from the spa and straight to brunch or lunch in this look.
In particular, we love how the linen shorts contrast with the cashmere sweater and cami set. It’s the perfect “spa outfit set” in our opinion. Additionally, the raffia tote is an excellent choice for bringing along all of your spa day essentials.
Fall Spa Day outfit
get the look:
Lastly, we have this super comfortable and very chic look with a maxi sweater dress, sandals, and a minimal tote bag. This look is perfect for a trip to the spa in early fall. The sandals are great for a fresh pedicure and the dress is a warm and cozy piece to slip on after a blissful massage.
But, if the weather is too cool for sandals, swap them out for sneakers or a pair of combat boots to complete the look.
How To Wear Your Hair For a Spa Day
When you arrive at the spa you can have your hair down, but you’ll want to put it up for most of the spa treatments including massage therapy, facials, body wraps, and more. If you have long hair, having it up and out of your face will ensure it doesn’t get in the way during a spa treatment.
On the other hand, if you have short hair that does not fit into a clip or ponytail, a headband is the best option. Many spas also provide hair wraps during facial treatments.
What to wear for a body wrap?
As a general rule of thumb you can go nude, in underwear, or a swimsuit for a body wrap. If you choose to bare-all, it’s likely you will have small towels draped over your private parts so they will not be fully exposed. However, this does depend on the spa and some are more open to nudity than others.
If you aren’t into full nudity, you are welcome to keep on underwear or a swimsuit. In this case, keep in mind that lotion or other formulas used for the wrap can get on your clothing. Some spas offer disposable underwear to prevent clothing from getting wrecked, so this may be an option as well.
get the look:
Final Notes
When it comes to what to wear to a spa, remember that “evaluated comfort” is the goal. You want to feel classy and stylish, while still having comfortable clothing to change into when you are in full relaxation mode at the end of your visit.
Avoid tight or restricting clothing like jeans, and don’t forget to remove your jewelry before your spa treatments. Wear your hair up and out of your face, and be prepared to be pampered.
We hope you enjoy your spa day!
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