As the timeless allure of Slim Aarons photographs shows us, there's nothing like the glamour of an Old Hollywood pool. Elizabeth Taylor is the face of this aesthetic, so it obviously follows that a '40s pool with Liz in it is the pinnacle of chic. Luckily, this vintage image is making our dreams come true.
A 1949 photograph of the actress alongside her first fiancé, William D. Pawley Jr., at his father's home in Miami Beach, is a masterclass in Old Hollywood pool ideas. The pool itself is cloud-shaped, undulating in subtle but intriguing curves. Elizabeth poses on a concrete diving board, offering a playful edge to the elevated display. Palm trees create the perfect privacy planting, while a fringed awning covers a dining table and white chairs, providing the perfect entertaining area.
As people look for ways to make their pool areas feel a touch more special this summer, Elizabeth's pool area is the perfect inspiration. Here is a sneak peek of the look, an edit I've curated of products to help you get an Old Hollywood pool design, and expert quotes on the tricks to emulate the style.
Recreate Liz's Look at Home
A playful patio umbrella is a trending garden must-have for summer. Not only does it help you keep cool in the midday sun, but it also adds pattern and style to a dining or lounging setup. This is an affordable way to recreate Elizabeth's fringe awning.
This premium windmill palm tree is carefully grown and shipped by experienced nursery professionals to ensure top quality. Cold-hardy and adaptable, it thrives in USDA zones 7-11, making it a versatile choice for many climates.
Constructed from ultra-strong resin and polycarbonate materials, these Elizabeth Taylor-inspired chairs withstand years of quality use at indoor or outdoor events. They are lightweight and easy to move, yet super durable, strong, and wobble-free. They're a versatile must-have for every entertainer.
A diving board gives your pool area instant charm, and this one from Amazon is a great pick. It's a best seller on the site, and I love its smooth white surface.
This vibrant palm is popular in shady landscapes. It has distinctive ruffled, pleated, fan-shaped leaves, giving it an exotic and ultra-tropical appearance.
Replicate Elizabeth's timeless style with a vintage-looking pool ring like this stylish one from Anthropologie. I love its pink and green colorway.
First, it's important to understand that emulating Elizabeth's style taps into larger shifts in poolside decorating. Megan Slack, Design Expert and Head of Celebrity Style at Homes & Gardens, advises: 'From fringed outdoor furniture, to brightly colored loungers, and fluffy plants, we've seen outdoor decorating trends for summer 2026 move in a bold direction. Homeowners want to make the outside of their homes look as alluring and stylish as their interiors.'
So, what's the best way to get the look? Megan recommends: 'To design an Old Hollywood pool, start with a simple color palette of blue and white. All the better if you can incorporate luxe materials like marble or other high-end stones. A non-traditional pool shape works well for this style, as we see at Elizabeth Taylor's design. A clover, oval, or anything with a curve creates a lagoon-like feel that connects the look to nature. Bold greenery is also your best friend and palm trees help to create that classic Hollywood feel.'
She continues: 'If you are going to make one investment, I would recommend an awning. This makes your pool space feel like a private club, and you can select colors and styles that elevate the look of your home. When in doubt, you can always turn to Elizabeth's space for guidance.'
Upgrading your pool area is one of those small touches that can completely transform the way you use your home's outdoor space. With Elizabeth Taylor's guidance at your back, you can't go wrong.
