Summer is the season of sunshine, longer days, and a fresh, vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for a home refresh. Whether you’re hosting friends for a backyard barbecue or simply looking to bring a bit of that summer magic indoors, styling your home for summer can create a warm and inviting space that feels like a true retreat. I’m excited to share some of my favorite tips and ideas to help you bring that breezy, relaxed summer vibe into your home. Find more home decor related posts here.
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Table of Contents
Summer Home Decor Ideas.
1. Lighten Up Your Color Palette
Summer is all about light, bright, and airy spaces, so the first step in styling your home for the season is to refresh your color palette. Swap out darker, heavier hues for light and breezy colors that reflect the sunny season.
- Whites and Neutrals: Start with a base of crisp whites or soft neutrals to create a fresh, clean canvas. These colors reflect light and make your space feel more open and airy.
- Pops of Color: Add pops of color through accessories like throw pillows, blankets, and artwork. Think of shades inspired by the season—soft blues, sunny yellows, fresh greens, and coral pinks.
Pro Tip: Consider painting an accent wall in a light, summery hue or using removable wallpaper with a fun, tropical pattern for a quick and easy update.
Amazon Pick: Lush Decor Bohemian Stripe Window Curtain
These colorful, boho-inspired curtains are perfect for adding a pop of summer color to any room.
2. Bring the Outdoors In
One of the best ways to capture the essence of summer is by incorporating natural elements into your decor. Bringing the outdoors in can create a calming, fresh atmosphere that feels like a summer escape.
- Houseplants: Fill your home with greenery by adding a variety of houseplants. Not only do plants improve air quality, but they also add a touch of nature that’s perfect for summer.
- Fresh Flowers: Fresh flowers are a must for summer. Place a vase of bright, seasonal blooms on your dining table, kitchen counter, or bedside table to bring a burst of color and fragrance into your home.
- Natural Materials: Incorporate natural materials like wicker, rattan, jute, and bamboo into your decor. These materials have a light, breezy feel that’s perfect for summer.
Pro Tip: Don’t have a green thumb? Opt for realistic faux plants or dried floral arrangements for a low-maintenance way to bring nature indoors.
Amazon Pick: Nearly Natural 6ft Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree
This faux fiddle leaf fig tree adds a touch of greenery to your space without the upkeep of a real plant.
3. Swap Out Textiles for Lighter Fabrics
When it comes to summer decor, think light and breathable. Heavy fabrics like velvet or wool can feel too warm for the season, so consider swapping them out for lighter, more breathable options.
- Linen and Cotton: Linen and cotton are perfect summer fabrics because they’re lightweight and breathable. Consider using linen curtains, cotton throw blankets, and pillow covers made from natural fibers.
- Sheer Curtains: Replace heavy drapes with sheer curtains that let in plenty of natural light. This will create an airy, open feel that’s ideal for summer.
Pro Tip: Layer your textiles for a relaxed, casual look. For example, drape a lightweight throw over the back of a chair or sofa for an effortlessly chic vibe.
Amazon Pick: MIULEE Linen Throw Pillow Covers
These linen throw pillow covers add a soft, breezy touch to your living space and are available in a variety of summer colors.
4. Refresh Your Bedding
Your bedroom should be a cool and comfortable retreat during the hot summer months, so consider giving your bedding a seasonal update. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable all night long.
- Linen or Cotton Sheets: Linen and cotton sheets are ideal for summer because they’re breathable and moisture-wicking. Look for lighter colors that will reflect the heat and keep your bedroom feeling fresh.
- Lightweight Quilt or Duvet: Swap out heavy comforters for a lightweight quilt or duvet. This will keep you cozy without making you too hot during the night.
Pro Tip: Add a few decorative pillows in summery shades or patterns to complete the look and add a touch of style to your bedroom.
Amazon Pick: Bedsure 100% Linen Duvet Cover Set
This linen duvet cover set is perfect for keeping cool during the summer months and adds a relaxed, luxurious feel to your bedroom.
5. Accessorize with Coastal-Inspired Decor
Bring the beach to your home with coastal-inspired decor. Whether you live by the coast or just want to capture that seaside vibe, adding a few beachy touches can make your home feel like a summer getaway.
- Nautical Elements: Incorporate nautical elements like rope, seashells, and driftwood into your decor. These small touches can evoke the feeling of being by the sea.
- Coastal Artwork: Hang artwork that features coastal scenes, such as ocean waves, sandy beaches, or palm trees. This can instantly transport you to a summer paradise.
- Decorative Accents: Consider adding accents like a large conch shell on your coffee table, a coral sculpture on your bookshelf, or a collection of seashells in a glass jar.
Pro Tip: Keep your coastal decor subtle and tasteful to avoid going overboard. A few well-placed accents can evoke the seaside without feeling too theme-y.
Amazon Pick: Creative Co-op Coastal Wood and Glass Sailboat
This decorative sailboat adds a subtle nautical touch to your home, perfect for capturing that summer coastal vibe.
6. Update Your Outdoor Spaces
Summer is the perfect time to refresh your outdoor spaces, whether you have a sprawling backyard, a cozy patio, or a small balcony. Creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor space will encourage you to spend more time enjoying the warm weather.
- Outdoor Furniture: Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that invites you to relax and soak up the sun. Look for durable materials like wicker or teak that can withstand the elements.
- Outdoor Rugs: Define your outdoor space with a weather-resistant rug that adds color and comfort underfoot.
- Lighting: String lights, lanterns, and candles can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that adds a magical touch after dark.
Pro Tip: Add a few outdoor throw pillows and blankets to your seating area for added comfort and style. Choose fabrics that are designed for outdoor use to ensure they last all season long.
Amazon Pick: Grand Patio Outdoor Folding Bistro Set
This bistro set is perfect for small outdoor spaces and adds a pop of color to your patio or balcony.
7. Create a Summer Bar Cart
A bar cart is a fun and functional addition to your summer decor. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to enjoy a refreshing drink, a well-stocked bar cart is a great way to keep your summer essentials close at hand.
- Glassware: Stock your bar cart with a variety of glassware, from cocktail glasses to wine glasses, so you’re ready to serve any drink.
- Decorative Accents: Add decorative accents like a bowl of fresh citrus, a vase of flowers, or a set of colorful straws to make your bar cart feel festive and inviting.
- Outdoor Drinks: Include some refreshing summer beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or a pitcher of sangria. You can also add a selection of mixers for cocktails.
Pro Tip: Opt for a bar cart with wheels so you can easily move it from indoors to outdoors, depending on where the party is.
Amazon Pick: Winsome Wood Entertainment Cart
This versatile bar cart is perfect for serving drinks and snacks during summer gatherings, with plenty of space for all your entertaining essentials.
8. Add Summery Scents
Scents can instantly transform the atmosphere of your home, so why not bring in some summery fragrances to set the mood? Choose light, fresh scents that evoke the feeling of summer.
- Citrus and Floral Scents: Citrus scents like lemon, lime, or orange are perfect for summer, as they’re bright and energizing. Floral scents like jasmine, rose, and lavender add a fresh, breezy feel to your home.
- Candles and Diffusers: Place candles or diffusers in key areas of your home to distribute the scent evenly. You can also try using room sprays to quickly freshen up a space.
Pro Tip: Consider using natural, eco-friendly candles made from soy or beeswax for a cleaner burn and longer-lasting fragrance.
Amazon Pick: Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Scented Soy Candle
This soy candle comes in a variety of fresh, summery scents and is made with natural ingredients for a clean burn.
Styling your home for summer is all about creating a space that feels light, bright, and inviting. Whether you’re refreshing your color palette, bringing in natural elements, or updating your outdoor spaces, these tips will help you embrace the season and enjoy all the warmth and beauty that summer has to offer. So throw open the windows, let the sunshine in, and get ready to enjoy your newly styled summer home.