WEATHER OR NOT
No matter the climate, it’s time to bid farewell to spring and say hello to summer – in the style stakes at least
Hands up if you’re ready for summer. I definitely am. And not even this most inclement of weather can put a dampener on my spirit.
Yes, it might not have got off to the best start, but summer, or our British equivalent, is well on the way and bringing with it a host of beautiful trends to see us through until the clocks go back.
COLOUR, AND LOTS OF IT
Colour is going to be everywhere this season and the brighter the better.
From fresh and zingy aquas to tangy oranges, there is something to suit all tastes and styles.
And this colour explosion is going to be especially prominent in the garden as homeowners move away from traditional woods and rattan and choose bold hues to complement their flora and fauna.
If you want to fully embrace this trend, go all out by investing in an outdoor dining suite in one of these vibrant shades. Alternatively, if your existing set is in pretty good condition, or you want to try a more pared back version of the look, accessorise your own set with bright cushions, napkins and a new parasol.
SUNSHINE INSIDE
Fingers crossed we’ve seen the last of the Beast from the East and its equally bitter friends, but, should the weather turn nasty this summer, there are plenty of design hacks to bring the sunshine indoors.
Let’s start with tableware, which is becoming less about function and more about fashion. Hit any department store and alongside traditional white china sets don’t be surprised to see colourful crockery with a host of intricate patterns.
And not only will a new crockery set brighten any dining table – indoor or outdoor – and you can use it to make a style statement by putting it on full display in your kitchen or dining area.
Like tableware, our love of all things botanical shows very little sign of waning. And it’s very easy to see why – just being exposed to anything natural can make you feel more creative, productive and less stressed, which is the perfect summer vibe.
The real thing – houseplants and flowers – are a simple way of introducing some floral touches and if you’re particularly green-fingered why not display cuts from your own garden.
However, as with all good trends, you can also fake it. Wallpaper, cushions and lamp shades are just some of the ways to introduce botanicals into the home.
SHAPE OF SUMMER
There is something about geometrics that I intrinsically link to summer. Perhaps it’s the freshness of simple shapes being used for maximum impact. But I am not alone, and once again, this summer geometric patterns will be everywhere.
However, I have two very simple ways of bringing them into a summer scheme. Firstly, invest in a rug (not a picnic blanket) that is sturdy, waterproof and suitable for outdoor use. If you can, use it to bridge the space between the house and outside space. Alternatively, lay it on any patio or decking to truly create a homely outdoor living area. And finally, use large shelves to enhance your outside living area. Use them to hold plants, a bird feeder or even an outdoor lamp to truly accessorise your space.
■ Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling.