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Designer reveals the essence of Aspen as a ski resort that delivers more than snow, writes STEPHEN SHORT

a small mining camp set up during the Colorado silver boom in the late 19th century has since become the preferred getaway of the world's elite. Treasured for what's above ground rather than below, Aspen, Colorado has a history almost as dense as the directory of A-listers that settled on its slopes or made their second home in the jewel of Pitkin County. The directory contains the names an assortment of widely differing personalities: actors ranging from Cary Grant to Robert Redford; gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson, who lived in the supposedly fortified compound of Owl Farm; musician John Denver, who lived in Starwood in Aspen; and scores of financial titans.

A new book published by Assouline, Aspen Style, pays homage to this extraordinary resort town. The book contains an introduction by a resident of Aspen for many years, Aerin Lauder, the founder and creative director of

Aerin. “There are so many reasons to love Aspen,” Lauder says. “For me, the balance of family, friends, beautiful scenery, great skiing, delicious food and old-school charm make it the perfect escape. I always arrive in Aspen with a smile.”

Lauder is a designer, working mother of two and style icon. She founded the Aerin brand in 2012 as a way to embrace