Desert Chic in Palm Springs

Lately my weeks have been travel-heavy with weekend photo-shoots, client meetings, and even a quick SoCal flight to Palm Springs. Whether the trip is for a couple of days or a couple of weeks, there is always a story to share from one’s adventure.My recent trip consisted of 3 days of non-stop sightseeing, vintage shopping, and fine cuisine at several fabulous restaurants. One of the highlights was lunch at Jakes, a hip, contemporary bistro in the uptown design district of Palm Springs where I had the opportunity to dine alfresco in their charming courtyard. This being my first trip to Palm Springs, or Desert Springs for that matter, it was a pleasure to experience the vivid atmosphere and picture where my grandparents enjoyed their honeymoon in 1957.

During my visit I stayed at the Riviera, a Luxury Hotel and Resort located off highway 111 and North Palm Canyon Drive. The hotels appearance was very much upscale with various boutique touches, however it lacked in cleanliness and overall delivery in room service presentation. On the contrary my room, the Deluxe Studio Suite incorporated a fabulous open concept with 570-square-feet, spacious balcony, a luxurious marble bathroom with a stunning view of their lush common garden landscaping.

One of the many surprises that I encountered on my visit was the strong influence of architectural history that Palm Springs has established with a perspective of Desert Contemporary and Modernism. From countless well-curated streets filled with this dramatic geographic I couldn’t resist conducting a retro-chic photoshoot on location. Wearing an authentic vintage dress paired with a paisley silk scarf, milk stone earrings and Ande clutch this entire ensemble found itself blending with its mid-century atmosphere.

There is something to be said about Palm Springs, perhaps it’s the sociable residents, the 4-star dinning or picturesque scenery I now know why my grandparents choose such a destination over sixty years ago to begin their life together.Authentic Vintage Bow Accented Dress, Annie Sandoval. Couture Silk Scarf (similar here & here). White Leather Clutch (similar here). Brian Atwood Patent Pumps (similar here & here).