Photographer Slim Aarons, notable for capturing American high-society during the second half of the 20^th century, embodies the glamourous poolside aesthetic. With a distinct canon of work; his renowned images of wealth, celebrity and power have had a lasting influence upon film and television production design, with the style referenced in many popular shows: including Mad Men (2007), The Queens Gambit (2020) and Palm Royale (2024).

Taken from one his most recognized series: the ‘Desert House Party’ (1970)- shot at the Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs, California- we witness a relaxed atmosphere, as fashionable party guests converse around metal sun loungers, reminiscent of classic GH pieces.

Prominent party guests include: Helen Dzo Dzo, Nelda Linsk & industrial designer Raymond Loewy (1893 – 1986).

During the creative process of Palm Royale (2024), Production designer, Jon Carlos, and Costume designer, Alix Friedberg, drew heavily from numerous Slim Aarons photographs.

Set in late 1960’s Palm Beach, the show foregrounds the audience in the world of Maxine Dellacorte-Simmons (played by Kristen Wiig), as she desperately pursues social acceptance into a circle of elite women at the exclusive Palm Royale club.

Tipping into farce and high camp; elaborate sets, featuring a blend of Hollywood Regency, mid-century modern and earthy seventies, symbolise show creator, Abe Sylvia's larger than life characters; whilst conveying a rich and authentic vision of styles converging across decades.

Amidst the political prim and pageant- this poolside set design features decorative white chairs, sun loungers and brightly coloured parasols- echoing Aarons' 'poolside gossip' trademark.

Other GH movie props that embody this style, include our American Sunlounger set- here spotted in the original Netflix film: ‘The Last Letter from your Lover’ (2021).

 Starring Felicity Jones and Shailene Woodley: the film depicts the story of two women who receive an eponymous letter, set between disparate timelines. Beautifully capturing the spirit of the French Riviera in the 1960's, here the character of Jennifer Stirling (played by Shailene Woodley), is shown with our American sun lounger, with lemon yellow stripe cushions- a key piece from our Rattan Riviera collection.

Whether it be the French Riviera, Palm Beach or Palm Springs- it's clear that the Slim Aaron's poolside aesthetic will continue to endure and inspire future projects to come.

Take Inspiration from our collection:

Sculptural, with a streamlined form and industrial materiality; this metal wire mesh sun lounger is a great example of the early 20th century Modernist period, and takes inspiration from the minimalist designs of Mies Van De Rohe and Le Corbusier. 

Palm Royale (2024) Apple Television

Production Design by Jon Carlos

Set Decoration by Ellen Reede

The Last Letter from your Lover (2021) Netflix

Production Design by James Merifield

Set Decoration by Clare Andrade

This midcentury style off-white metal sun lounger, features a decorative scallop fringed edge; a modern twist on classic designs from this period. 

Explore more of our Outdoor & Garden collection here.

 A large oval off-white faux marble boardroom table with statement angular cross leg steel frame- a great choice for creating that slick boardroom scene, or infusing your event hire with a bit of elegance.

Glamourous, characterful or classic- these are some of our 2023 floor lighting highlights.

From opaline glass and alabaster, to textured bronze and twisted rope- these are some of our favourite sourced table lamps.

A unique collection of abstract landscapes and interiors, in vintage frames, perfect for any set-period or contemporary- where you need quality, original works of art.

All license to use!

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Explore our new stock here