DIY Retro Swim Frappuccinos: Make Vintage Poolside Drinks at Home

Starbucks drink with sunglasses on it

There’s a little backstory: I was asked to personify a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino, and I couldn’t resist giving her a retro sunbathing makeover. The idea was simple and fun—turn ordinary drinks into tiny bathing beauties for summer parties. I mostly wanted a flower swim cap for myself, but the result is pure summer charm. If you’re planning one more big get-together this season, consider dressing your drinks up for a playful, memorable touch.

A woman wearing a polka dot bikini and shower capSomeone holding a starbucks drink with yellow sunglasses on it

Supplies:

  • Dome lids (like the Frappuccino lids from Starbucks)
  • Mini faux flowers
  • Low-heat hot glue gun
  • Sunglasses and drink float (optional, but recommended)

Someone holding a hot glue gun Someone holding flowers

How to make retro swim Frappuccinos:

  1. Warm your hot glue gun on the low setting. Use a small dot of glue on the back of each flower. If your flowers have decorative backs, place the glue where it won’t be visible so the finished look stays neat.
  2. Press each flower onto the dome lid, working around the lid to cover it evenly. Mix flower colors and sizes for an authentic swim-cap appearance. Once the glue has set, place the decorated lid back on the drink and add sunglasses or a float for extra personality.

A woman wearing a bikini and holding a starbucks drinkA starbucks drink with sunglasses on it

Photos by Jeff Mindell | Styling by Beautilitarian | Creative Direction + DIY Production by Kelly Mindell

On me: Bathing suit | Sunglasses | Swim cap

Can a drink look this cute? Absolutely. These little retro swim Frappuccinos add instant whimsy to pool parties, backyard barbecues, or any summer celebration. Have fun with colors and accessories, and enjoy the sunshine!

This post was created in partnership with Starbucks. All content and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that keep the Studio DIY party going.