We're in the middle of summer, which means outdoor gatherings are in full swing. Think brunches, picnics, pool parties, wine nights, and — my personal favorite — dinner potlucks. A well-decorated outdoor space is a great place to host these get-togethers, accessorized with chic decor to spruce up your outdoor oasis.
Currently, I’m making do with my small patio space lined with string lights coupled with thrifted wicker chairs. I’m living vicariously through Instagram posts and house tours on YouTube that I'm saving for future reference when I buy my own home someday, but that doesn't mean I can't make small improvements today—and so can you.
To gain inspiration for your next purchase, we enlisted a few interior designers to share the outdoor decor they're loving and tips for styling these pieces in your own backyard, below.
Justina Blakeney, Founder & Creative Director of Jungalow
Photo: Dabito
Iron/Glass Outdoor Candle Holder
"Hang these lanterns from trees or dot them around your porch or patio—they add a vintage charm and warmth to your outdoor space, day or night."
Maraca Hammock
"The perfect place to hang out all summer long. It’s a great way to spruce up the backyard by adding a pop of color, all with the added bonus of additional lounging."
The Market Umbrella
"Throw shade–in the best way–with these patio umbrellas. The fringe adds a little extra flare that you didn’t know you needed."
Paseo Towel Set
"Stunning towels that are as cozy as they are chic. Pops of color and patterns are well-appreciated, and these are such a chic and practical way to incorporate that in."
Ariel Okin, Founder of Ariel Okin Interiors
Photos: Donna Dotan
Pacifica Swivel Chair
“I love using Serena & Lily's Pacifica Collection of woven wicker chairs, sofas, loveseats, and more to outfit decks and patios alike. Their beautiful colorways feel perfectly sun-kissed and beach-ready all season long.”
Provence Scalloped Edge Planter
“There is nothing more classic than a bunch of geraniums taking in the sun in happy scalloped terracotta pots. A must-have!”
Citronella Scented Candles, Set of 3
“Entertaining al fresco is my most favorite thing about the summer season, but mosquitos are my arch nemesis. Citronella candles in pretty containers are the best to ward away pesky bites while enjoying the summer breeze.”
Young Huh, Founder of Young Huh Interior Design
Photo: Ngoc Minh Ngo
Antiqued Rust Bronze Ajmer Square Lantern
“I adore candlelight and a fire going at night. I like having tall pillars and shorter ones so you have a very layered and magical candlelight. These particular lanterns you could hang in some low branches here and there. [Add in] some romantic music and drinks, and you have the perfect summer evening.”
Avalon Daybed
“I have two of these Serena & Lily outdoor day beds. Layer them up with some bohemian pillows, and you have the perfect place to lounge, do work, or take an afternoon nap. Outdoor rattan is very popular right now and so beautiful!”
Octagonal Placemat
“Don’t forget to set a pretty table when you're eating outdoors. I adore these placemats. They will dress up your outdoor table, and you can start layering your table setting with flowers, lanterns, and fruits in bowls.”
Devon Easy-Care Square Planter
“Dress up your patio with lots and lots of flowers and plants. Planters like this are classic and create architecture for your terrace.”
Hema Persad, Founder of Sagrada Studio
Photo: Courtesy of Hema Persad
Feliz Rattan Bar Cart
"You can't entertain outdoors without a cute place to set up drinks! Anything with a natural texture will work well outdoors, both practically and visually. Think rattan, wicker, wood—things that will hold up under the sun/rain but also not look too out of place in an outdoor setting."
Fluted Acrylic Drinking Glasses
"Colored glassware is having a moment, so I love these [colored glasses] for an eclectic, fun look. They are a little bit vintage, a little bit midcentury, and since they're made of acrylic, you don't need to worry about them breaking. They are perfect for entertaining by the pool."
Waterproof Patio Lights
"Can't forget lighting—it really sets the tone as the sun goes down. It doesn't have to be a lot either, just enough lighting to cast a warm glow across everything. Opt for a warm white instead of a cool white tone. I like to add a rattan lantern or two above an outdoor dining table. It makes it feel like you're on a vacay in your backyard."
Cabo Tiki Torch Holder
"Every outdoor space needs a fire feature. The ambiance that firelight creates on summer evenings really can't be compared. I love these modern tiki torches because they have a sleek look and blend well with most decor schemes."
