No other city embodies the poolside culture like Palm Springs.

The epitome of Palm Springs’ glory days is captured in Slim Aarons “Poolside Gossip” photographs from the 70s. At the famous Kaufmann House, two good-looking, stylish ladies lounge at the pool, while another woman is approaching them with a drink in her hand. The society photographer, Slim Aaron has captured many parties, but this image does not only captures one event but the character of a city. The lady of the house at that time, Mr. Linsk, got a call from Aaron asking her to gather few friends; he would like to come over and shoot few images. slim aarons poolside gossip

Afternoon parties where nothing extraordinary and rare; people worked (more or less) hard, but partied harder and in style.

There was no art direction involved in the creation of these images, yet the clothes, poses, and people work perfectly together. Everyone just pulled out something from their closets, came over and grabbed a cocktail. Palm Springs was always a refuge for the wealthy and famous to relax and let loose. It had its up and downs, but since few years a new wave of artists and entrepreneurs is revamping the old mid-century buildings. Turning them into cool restaurants, hip hotels and funky bars while pool parties are still a thing in Palm Springs and will always be, although the attire has changed a bit.

*All images by Slim Aarons. 

slim aarons poolside gossip