Summer Decor for 2023
I seriously cannot BELIEVE it’s about to be June. WTH? Anyone else feel like summer just blew down the door??
If summer has caught you as unaware as me, blink your eyes, grab your shades and your sunscreen, and get in the mood for heat. Here’s some summertime flair to deck out your backyard (the best summer decor goes outside, right?):
Light It Up
String Lights ~$59-$169
These indoor/outdoor LED string lights from PB have a smooth antique look about them and are very high-quality. I’m always tempted to go cheap on string lights, and I always regret it — available in 12′, 24′ and 48′ lengths.
Tabletop String Light Holders ~$79
Because not everyone has a fence or trellises to hang them from…
Solar Lanterns ~$29
These romantic lanterns throw off a warm light that’s perfect for evenings and late night, and even looks “glowy” during the daytime.
LED Pathway Lights ~$149
These pretty warm white LED lights are a fun way to brighten your walkway or simply light up your yard. They come with 25 lights (bulbs included) and ground stakes.
Set the Scene
An Outdoor Rug
Even Jeff Lebowski knew that an area can really tie a room together; the same is true for an outdoor area.
The leader in the outdoor rug category is Ruggable (left, ~$219+), which comes with both the rug and a non-slip rug pad AND **is machine-washable.
We’ve also enjoyed the wide selection of indoor/outdoor rugs from Wayfair, including this flatweave rug available in 3 colors.
Grandin Road Planters ~ $126
These gorj easy-care planters from Grandin Road are perfect for the doorstep and are on major sale right now. See all of Grandin Road’s planters here.
Fire Pit ~ $99+
Some would say that fire was the catalyst for human evolution. No wonder the simple act of sitting by a fire feels so natural and primitive.
Your local hardware store should have basic options ($115+), which are somewhat portable and great for patios/terraces (or wherever, lol). This year, we are also loving the Pit Boss Smokeless Pit (takes wood pellets, $287), as well as the beloved smokeless Solo Stove Bonfire Pit (~$249).
I hope they never go out of style!
A Pretty Floral Wreath ~$109+
Williams Sonoma has a gorgeous selection of handmade floral wreaths (made from dried flowers) that last for ~3 years. They’re so elegant and classy! If you prefer a greener aesthetic, check out Pottery Barn for more options.
UpBlend Wind Chime ~ $40
This bamboo wind chime makes a beautiful, subtle sound when blown. Nothing like sitting out on the porch and hearing this relaxing symphony.
Destination Signs ~$varies
These are such a fun, colorful way to personalize your outdoor space, and they’re also juuuust the right dose of sentimental. If you’re the handy/crafty type (pointing at someone else), you could even DIY. Makes for a great gift, too.
Take a Seat
Teak Rockers ~$363
These classic outdoor rockers are a staple on southern porches (they literally scream summer decor) — but they’re great anywhere. Our set has lasted through multiple Ohio seasons followed by nine Maine winters, and counting. Also comes in a different version with a cupholder (!) for $319.
Another classic — Adirondack Chairs ~$299
If you prefer a non-rocker, these all-weather Adirondacks are the perfect touch for any backyard.
Lazy Daze Hammock ~$78
What can we say about a hammock? It’s comfortable? It’s fun? Kids fall out of them? All of the above, hah. Users love this quilted hammock — but note that you’ll need to purchase a stand separately ($72), if you need one.
Bench Porch Swing ~$160
This classic bench-style porch swing is so classy and fun — you can check out all different styles and designs here. *These do take a while to install…
An Outdoor Lounge Situation ~$varies
Let me tell you: an outdoor sofa/sectional is a total game-changer. Yes, an outdoor couch can transform even the most modest outdoor space into the epitome of luxury. #worthit.
Outdoor Throw Pillows ~$varies
For your rockers/hammock/bench swing/outdoor couch/etc. Wayfair has a great selection of designs that range on the spectrum from whimsical to chic.
Kids Picnic Table ~$varies
If you have room for a kids picnic table, they are so cute and SO practical to have — the most utilitarian summer decor around. My kids were always on the verge of falling off their “adult-sized” seats at our patio table and picnic table. Here are three great options at different price points:
Ikea RESO ~$56 — Economy Pick
Gorilla Playsets Table w/Umbrella ~$209
Crate & Barrel Triangular Table ~$399 — Upgrade Pick
While you’re at it —
If your family partakes in any amount of outdoor dining, get yourself a good tray. I don’t know why it took me so long to start using ours, but it seriously cuts down on the back-and-forth. There are numerous options, but we love this Tray ($23) from Crate & Barrel. It’s sturdy, sizable, has a classic look, and defies seasonality.
Play
Lastly, here are a handful of fun things to keep littles active and occupied outside, ranging from play sets to fun decorative summer crafts. Check out our water play round-up for even more ideas.
An Outdoor Play Tent ~$varies
Sandbox w/Cover ~$varies
Play House ~$256 (varies)
Arts & Crafts
If you’re the crafty type, you can let your kids make your summer decorations – put those littles to work! Hah. Here are a few fun starter ideas:
- Make these adorable clay gnomes to put in your yard or garden.
- Make mandalas on your patio/porch/lawn using stones, pebbles, leaves and/or flowers — “land art” (check out more fun “land art” ideas here!).
- Make a mini Mason Jar aquarium — an easier way to take care of fish!
- Paint rocks (Have you heard about the Kindness Rocks Project?? My kids are OBSESSED. Also, see here for even more ideas on using rocks to make art).
Hopefully you’ve found something to spruce up your outdoor space in our list of summertime decor essentials. Any favorites we missed? Feel free to share your ideas in the comment section.
Cheers to summer!
