7 Ways To Make A Retro Style Poolside

A retro-inspired poolside can elevate your outdoor living space to an entirely new level, instantly transporting you back to the glamorous golden age of high-waisted bikinis, Elvis Presley's iconic tunes, and vibrant cocktail parties that exuded timeless elegance. Imagine lounging by the pool, basking in the sun's warm embrace, as you're surrounded by carefully curated vintage decor, reminiscent of a bygone era. To bring this captivating retro style to your pool setting, let's explore seven delightful ways to infuse nostalgia and create a truly enchanting poolside ambiance that will transport you to a world of classic sophistication and unforgettable memories.

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Start with a Classic Shape

First and foremost, when choosing a pool design, consider opting for a classic shape such as a rectangular or kidney-shaped pool. These pool shapes have been a hallmark of the mid-century era and continue to exude a timeless appeal due to their simplicity and elegance. The clean lines and balanced proportions of these designs create a harmonious and sophisticated aesthetic that can effortlessly enhance any outdoor space. So, whether you’re looking to create a serene oasis or a stylish entertainment area, a classic pool shape is a perfect choice that will never go out of style.

Vintage Furniture

When creating a retro poolside ambiance, it’s essential to include period-appropriate furniture that truly captures the essence of the era. Look for metal lawn chairs with intricate designs, vintage chaise lounges with plush cushions, or iconic Acapulco chairs in vibrant colours. These carefully selected pieces not only provide exceptional comfort but also serve as crucial decorative elements that define and elevate your retro aesthetic. With their charming retro charm, they transport you back in time, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the nostalgia of yesteryears while enjoying the refreshing poolside experience.

7-ways-to-make-a-retro-style-poolside-blogimage1

Bright, Bold Colours

In the vibrant and upbeat era of the 1950s and 60s, bold and cheerful colours reigned supreme. Imagine the warm glow of sunny yellows, reminiscent of a picturesque summer’s day. Picture the captivating allure of bright blues, reminiscent of the crystal-clear waters of a tropical paradise. And envision the lush richness of deep greens, reminiscent of a serene and tranquil forest.


Now, let these vibrant hues adorn your pool tiles, furniture, and accessories, creating a space that exudes joy and exuberance. Embrace the spirit of the time and don’t be afraid to incorporate patterns as well – a stylish striped umbrella can evoke memories of lazy days spent lounging by the pool, while whimsical polka-dotted cushions can add a playful touch to your outdoor seating area.


With every vibrant detail, let your surroundings transport you to a bygone era where joy and exuberance were celebrated. Immerse yourself in the charm and personality of this retro-inspired aesthetic, and create a space that truly reflects the spirit of the 1950s and 60s.

Add a Cabana

A poolside cabana is a perfect addition to your retro outdoor space. With its elegant design and classic appeal, it offers a luxurious and shaded area for relaxation and unwinding. This glamorous retreat, reminiscent of old Hollywood, creates an atmosphere of sophistication and indulgence. Imagine draping colourful curtains that sway gently in the breeze, adding a vibrant touch to the ambience. Complete the oasis with plush outdoor cushions, providing a comfortable and inviting spot to lounge and soak up the sun. Transform your outdoor area into a haven of style and tranquillity with this exquisite poolside cabana.

7-ways-to-make-a-retro-style-poolside-blogimage2

Retro-Inspired Lighting

When it comes to setting the mood, lighting plays a crucial role. For a touch of nostalgia and charm, you might want to consider installing vintage string lights, delicately illuminating the area around your pool. Alternatively, retro lanterns can add a whimsical and enchanting ambiance, creating an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for those warm summer nights. With these creative lighting choices, you can transform your outdoor space into a captivating and magical haven where you can relax and enjoy the summer evenings to the fullest.

Vintage Pool Accessories

From classic beach balls to vintage coke coolers, poolside accessories can make a significant impact on your retro aesthetic. Imagine lounging by the pool, surrounded by vibrant beach balls in various sizes and colours, evoking memories of carefree summer days. Picture yourself sinking into a plush poolside chair, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, as you reach into a charming vintage coke cooler filled with ice-cold refreshments. The sound of laughter and splashing water fills the air, creating an atmosphere of pure relaxation and enjoyment. These delightful and nostalgic touches not only add authenticity but also infuse your poolside experience with a sense of fun, joy, and a hint of whimsy. So dive in, embrace the retro vibes, and create unforgettable memories in your own little slice of poolside paradise.

Retro Outdoor Bar

Last but not least, no retro poolside experience is truly complete without a stylish and inviting poolside bar. Picture a charming bamboo tiki bar, adorned with a thatch roof that provides a natural and tropical ambiance. Surrounding the bar, you’ll find vintage bar signs, showcasing classic designs and adding a touch of nostalgia to your poolside oasis. With its unique and eye-catching features, this poolside bar becomes the focal point, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment.

Transforming your pool into a retro paradise requires a keen eye for details and a love for vintage aesthetics. With these seven suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a poolside that’s as charming and inviting as the bygone era it represents. So get ready to don your vintage swimwear, mix up a martini, and dive into the splendour of retro poolside living.

Note: It is of utmost importance to always remember and diligently practice water safety measures. Ensure that your pool area is securely fenced and designed to be child-friendly, with proper safety features in place. By taking the necessary precautions, your retro poolside oasis will not only exude style and charm but also provide a safe and secure environment for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

7 Ways To Make A Retro Style Poolside

A retro-inspired poolside can elevate your outdoor living space to an entirely new level, instantly transporting you back to the glamorous golden age of high-waisted bikinis, Elvis Presley's iconic tunes, and vibrant cocktail parties that exuded timeless elegance. Imagine lounging by the pool, basking in the sun's warm embrace, as you're surrounded by carefully curated vintage decor, reminiscent of a bygone era. To bring this captivating retro style to your pool setting, let's explore seven delightful ways to infuse nostalgia and create a truly enchanting poolside ambiance that will transport you to a world of classic sophistication and unforgettable memories.

7-ways-to-make-a-retro-style-poolside-banner-m

Start with a Classic Shape

First and foremost, when choosing a pool design, consider opting for a classic shape such as a rectangular or kidney-shaped pool. These pool shapes have been a hallmark of the mid-century era and continue to exude a timeless appeal due to their simplicity and elegance. The clean lines and balanced proportions of these designs create a harmonious and sophisticated aesthetic that can effortlessly enhance any outdoor space. So, whether you’re looking to create a serene oasis or a stylish entertainment area, a classic pool shape is a perfect choice that will never go out of style.

Vintage Furniture

When creating a retro poolside ambiance, it’s essential to include period-appropriate furniture that truly captures the essence of the era. Look for metal lawn chairs with intricate designs, vintage chaise lounges with plush cushions, or iconic Acapulco chairs in vibrant colours. These carefully selected pieces not only provide exceptional comfort but also serve as crucial decorative elements that define and elevate your retro aesthetic. With their charming retro charm, they transport you back in time, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the nostalgia of yesteryears while enjoying the refreshing poolside experience.

7-ways-to-make-a-retro-style-poolside-blogimage1-m

Bright, Bold Colours

In the vibrant and upbeat era of the 1950s and 60s, bold and cheerful colours reigned supreme. Imagine the warm glow of sunny yellows, reminiscent of a picturesque summer’s day. Picture the captivating allure of bright blues, reminiscent of the crystal-clear waters of a tropical paradise. And envision the lush richness of deep greens, reminiscent of a serene and tranquil forest.


Now, let these vibrant hues adorn your pool tiles, furniture, and accessories, creating a space that exudes joy and exuberance. Embrace the spirit of the time and don’t be afraid to incorporate patterns as well – a stylish striped umbrella can evoke memories of lazy days spent lounging by the pool, while whimsical polka-dotted cushions can add a playful touch to your outdoor seating area.


With every vibrant detail, let your surroundings transport you to a bygone era where joy and exuberance were celebrated. Immerse yourself in the charm and personality of this retro-inspired aesthetic, and create a space that truly reflects the spirit of the 1950s and 60s.

Add a Cabana

A poolside cabana is a perfect addition to your retro outdoor space. With its elegant design and classic appeal, it offers a luxurious and shaded area for relaxation and unwinding. This glamorous retreat, reminiscent of old Hollywood, creates an atmosphere of sophistication and indulgence. Imagine draping colourful curtains that sway gently in the breeze, adding a vibrant touch to the ambience. Complete the oasis with plush outdoor cushions, providing a comfortable and inviting spot to lounge and soak up the sun. Transform your outdoor area into a haven of style and tranquillity with this exquisite poolside cabana.

7-ways-to-make-a-retro-style-poolside-blogimage2-m

Retro-Inspired Lighting

When it comes to setting the mood, lighting plays a crucial role. For a touch of nostalgia and charm, you might want to consider installing vintage string lights, delicately illuminating the area around your pool. Alternatively, retro lanterns can add a whimsical and enchanting ambiance, creating an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for those warm summer nights. With these creative lighting choices, you can transform your outdoor space into a captivating and magical haven where you can relax and enjoy the summer evenings to the fullest.

Vintage Pool Accessories

From classic beach balls to vintage coke coolers, poolside accessories can make a significant impact on your retro aesthetic. Imagine lounging by the pool, surrounded by vibrant beach balls in various sizes and colours, evoking memories of carefree summer days. Picture yourself sinking into a plush poolside chair, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, as you reach into a charming vintage coke cooler filled with ice-cold refreshments. The sound of laughter and splashing water fills the air, creating an atmosphere of pure relaxation and enjoyment. These delightful and nostalgic touches not only add authenticity but also infuse your poolside experience with a sense of fun, joy, and a hint of whimsy. So dive in, embrace the retro vibes, and create unforgettable memories in your own little slice of poolside paradise.

Retro Outdoor Bar

Last but not least, no retro poolside experience is truly complete without a stylish and inviting poolside bar. Picture a charming bamboo tiki bar, adorned with a thatch roof that provides a natural and tropical ambiance. Surrounding the bar, you’ll find vintage bar signs, showcasing classic designs and adding a touch of nostalgia to your poolside oasis. With its unique and eye-catching features, this poolside bar becomes the focal point, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment.

Transforming your pool into a retro paradise requires a keen eye for details and a love for vintage aesthetics. With these seven suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a poolside that’s as charming and inviting as the bygone era it represents. So get ready to don your vintage swimwear, mix up a martini, and dive into the splendour of retro poolside living.

Note: It is of utmost importance to always remember and diligently practice water safety measures. Ensure that your pool area is securely fenced and designed to be child-friendly, with proper safety features in place. By taking the necessary precautions, your retro poolside oasis will not only exude style and charm but also provide a safe and secure environment for you and your loved ones to enjoy.