When you think of Palm Beach, what comes to mind? Probably palm-lined promenades, golden beaches, glitter, glamour, old money, and intrigue. Yes, there has always been plenty of that – even before Mr. Trump rolled into town. Palm Beach has long been considered a playground for the rich and famous.
A few years ago, I traveled there for the first time to attend the celebrated Kips Bay Decorator Show House, an annual fundraising event for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club in Manhattan. Basically, interior designers from all over decorate rooms in a luxury home, and then it opens up for tours.
Although the show house was fantastic, it occurred to me after a few days that it was Palm Beach itself that had really captured my imagination. I knew it was steeped in history and one of America’s most storied resort communities, but up to that point, I never truly appreciated its enduring appeal.
Well, it didn’t take long to fall under its spell. First off, the town is buzzing with activity. I loved the energy – tanned tourists and locals alike, spilling from bustling eateries and boutiques out onto the sunny streets, decked out in every colour imaginable.
But also, the town of Palm Beach is really charming, with its historic architecture and manicured landscapes, it is oozing with old world grandeur. After doing some research, I discovered the history of Palm Beach is fascinating – from its origin story as a desolate barrier island, to the notable architects who designed and built it, to the glitterati who came to play, and stay.
I gave a talk at my club a few years ago titled “Tales From Palm Beach: The Bold and the Beautiful”, where I explored the hallmarks of Palm Beach style. I also delved into the Golden Isle’s history and shared a few salacious stories – but that is a whole other journal post!
CARNIVAL OF COLOUR
Summarized by AI: Palm Beach style is a glamorous, resort-inspired aesthetic that blends bold tropical colours and classic preppy patterns with relaxed coastal elegance. Originating in the 1920s to 1950s, it embraces the sunshine and natural beauty of South Florida through a highly specific set of core elements.
If I were to distill it all down, nothing defines Palm Beach’s distinct style more than its bold and playful colour palette. Starting with its architecture – a mix of Spanish and Mediterranean Revival, British Colonial, and Mid Century Modern – where pastel hues take center stage. The Colony Hotel is a good example. Built in 1947, the “Pink Paradise,” as it’s called, continues to be one of the most enduring and beloved spots in Palm Beach. It was recently renovated and is simply gorgeous.
Fashion is a big deal in Palm Beach. In fact, Worth Avenue is one of the most exclusive shopping districts in the world. Back in the day, the swanky Everglades Club hosted weekly fashion shows, which served as a launch pad for designers like Valentino, Blass, and Givenchy. This was the beginning of the town’s rich fashion history. Then, in the 1960’s, a fashion legend was born. Lilly Pulitzer, whose name is synonymous with Palm Beach and its colourful chic style, blazed her trail by designing simple shift dresses in super bold palettes and patterns. Even Jackie O. was a fan.
HOMES WITH COLOUR
Grassy greens, cobalt blue, oranges, and pinks are bold tones often used to punctuate a space. Fearless mixing of colours is also hallmark of Palm Beach style.
For a softer approach, corals, serene greens, and aquas make for beautiful backdrops.
Spaces with white or neutral backgrounds often feature vintage artwork in bold colours to add a hit of colour to the space. Paintings by 60s mod artists, like Frank Stella or Mark Rothko, give that retro vibe. Art prints by Slim Aarons also capture that energy. Aarons was an American photographer noted for his images of socialites, jet-setters, and celebrities, often lounging about in Palm Beach.
HOMES WITH CHARACTER
With any well-designed room, layers of texture are important. In Palm Beach, you see everything from grasscloth wall coverings to other natural fibers like rattan, cane, wicker, jute, and sisal. Bamboo may be relatively new in terms of what’s environmentally chic, but it’s an old-school favourite in Palm Beach.
Old money items, like European antiques passed down through families over generations, are a major hallmark of Palm Beach style. Not only do you see a mixing of time periods and styles in these rooms, but also the injection of global influences, such as Chinoiserie. Think scenic wallpaper murals, ginger jars and vases, porcelain garden stools, pagoda lanterns, lamps, and mirrors. Lacquer and high-gloss painted finishes on furniture are also common.
It wouldn’t be Palm Beach without some glitz and glam! Palm Beach style offers a nod to the sparkle of Hollywood Regency, inspired by Hollywood’s Golden Era in the 1930’s, when actors and actresses seized the opportunity to make their living spaces reflections of their fashionable lifestyles and appearances. It’s an unapologetic opulence – picture cocktails in caftans or lounging in one’s smoking jacket.
Although its emphasis on opulence makes it similar to Art Deco, Hollywood Regency is a much more eclectic and ornamented style. It is more theatrical and over-the-top. Lots of gold and silver metal accents, mirrored furniture, glass, and lucite.
Another hallmark of Palm Beach style is the use of energetic patterns and prints. Everything from flamboyant Ikats, stripes, and animal prints to Greek key motifs and lattice work (which stem from Chinoiserie and Hollywood Regency Style).
THE CASE FOR PALM BEACH STYLE
1. IT’S THE ULTIMATE IN LAID BACK SOPHISTICATION
Palm Beach style is luxurious but relaxed. It’s a deliberately natural and effortless look. It’s chic because it doesn’t seem to be trying too hard.
2. IT’S FOR EVERYONE
It works for both risk-takers and more timid design enthusiasts. You can incorporate this style in large or small doses. It also works in any style of home. And it doesn’t matter where you live – you don’t have to be on the coast to infuse your home with Palm Beach style. Whether your budget is large or small, you can feel good about investing in pieces for your home, because Palm Beach style is timeless.
3. IT’S GOOD FOR THE SOUL
Palm Beach style evokes a “happy light-heartedness” – because it’s whimsical and colourful. It’s a fact – colour makes us feel good and lifts our spirits.
“Despite the forecast, live like it’s spring!”
– Lily Pulitzer
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