There’s something about Palm Springs that makes me want to cosplay as a ’60s housewife every time I visit. Perhaps it’s the city’s mid-century modern architecture, vintage shops filled with groovy prints, or Frank Sinatra lore. Or maybe it’s movies like Don’t Worry Darling that glamorize Palm Springs’ retro heyday, or photographers like Slim Aarons who immortalized sun-soaked scenes of poolside leisure. It’s probably all of the above.
In January 1970, Aarons took a series of now-iconic photos of the Kaufmann House. The impeccably dressed women wore crochet crop tops, bug-eyed sunglasses, bright yellow two-piece sets, wide-brim sun hats, and floral minidresses. Not to be left out, the men donned printed blazers, crisp linen shirts, and white loafers. Over 50 years later, the photos are still the blueprint for Palm Springs style. And gleefully, the vibe is the antithesis of cliché Coachella outfits. Scroll down to shop my favorite retro-inspired clothes and accessories for spring 2026.
Hunza G
Square Neck Swim in Sunflower
Fashion people adore Hunza G swimsuits.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Moremu 50 Raffia-Trimmed Leather Mules
Not your average summer sandals.
Reformation
Eliana Two Piece
This two-piece set is the pinnacle of retro chic.
ALIGNE
Connie Round Neck Linen Top
I promise: a pop of green will enhance your summer closet.
Marlies Grace
Exclusive Ocean Cotton Mini Dress
H&M always comes through with wallet-friendly options.
Lele Sadoughi
Oleander Stud Earrings
These pastel pink earrings are too cute.
MANGO
Long Asymmetrical Cape Dress
This dress is begging to be worn to a summer wedding.
FAITHFULL
Olivia Broderie Anglaise Peplum Top
Haven’t you heard? Peplums are back!
This top is giving me ’60s vibes.
Yellow The Label
Danielle Buckled Dress
Why not add some cheery yellow to your wardrobe this summer?
Linda Farrow
Celia Sunglasses in Truffle
Linda Farrow’s sunnies are so glam.
Reformation
Malika Linen Top
Reformation does it again.
H&M
Pointelle-Knit Beach Dress
RSVP to that pool party and wear this.
CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Palmira Ruched Cutout Floral Brocade Mini Dress
Lime green never looked so good.
Posse
Exclusive Polly Striped Cotton T-Shirt
Wear this striped top with your favorite denim shorts.
By Malene Birger
Strawilla Paper Bucket Hat
H&M
Motif-Detail Mesh Dress
H&M
Asymmetric Crochet-Look Top
This sheer top will look perfect poolside.
Leo Lin
Mckayla Off-The-Shoulder Top
Candy stripes are always a good idea.
Reformation
Waldena Block Heeled Mules
Don’t sleep on Reformation’s shoe selection.
MARTA FERRI
Angera Belted Open-Back Cotton-Blend Brocade Maxi Dress
This will look chic whether you’re in Palm Springs or Pittsburgh.
Reformation
Calista Slingback Heels
Old-fashioned in a good way.
JENNIFER BEHR
Chaya Gold-Tone Enamel Earrings
Wear these with your favorite white dress.
JACQUEMUS
Le Petit Turismo Shoulder Bag
Rixo
Daphne Earrings in Blue Turquoise
Reformation
Dusk Knit Top
This knit top can be styled a million different ways.
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