SUMMER DREAMING
It's hot outside but that doesn't mean a bedroom can't be cool
Summer bedroom decor often starts with putting heavy comforters and flannel sheet sets into the closet and pulling out lighter bed linens and brighter colours to help signify the warmer months.
The trend this summer is all about the classic colour combination of white and blue, which appear in both traditional and modern bedding styles. Add a few soft neutrals like warm beige or cool grey and you'll be right on trend. If you are looking for some inspiration (without breaking the bank), then let's show our beds a little love with an update for the months ahead.
BED 1: WHITE WITH NEUTRALS
While white keeps a room bright, neutral colours help to add variety without committing to strong colours, keeping a room looking bright, calm and restful. Hometrend's rose white quilt set serves up cool white and pale grey colours and is the perfect weight (it's called a summer quilt) to keep you cosy without the heaviness of winter bedding. The rose-stitched sateen cotton stays cool to the touch and the reversible side is a fashionable pale grey to tone things down for a simple, modern look.
Tip: If you like the look of white bedding throughout the year, add a focal wall of colour (such as grey or blue) behind the bed to help add a little drama to the room.
BED 2: INTO THE BLUES
Blue is an all-time favourite summer colour for decorators. Whether it reminds you of a cool summer sky breeze or waves off the ocean, it's a colour from nature that can be found in many shades and tones. This summer, look for a hand-dyed look with the airy bohemian feel.
I found a Shibori (think tie-dye) patterned duvet set that will create a breezy casual look for your bed; and with just a few blue accents (you choose the tone — navy blue sheets and a turquoise throw would layer perfectly together), it will be easy to create a quick summer makeover on your bed.
Tip: Adding a shot of orange, yellow or fuchsia with a pillow or throw will warm up the look and add a tropical vibe.
BED 3: SEASONAL ACCESSORIES
A few accessories can help complete the summer bed and keep it on trend. A casual throw, a couple of accent pillows and an inexpensive piece of seasonal art or a vase can instantly transform your winter bedroom into a seaside beach house. The Aulejo throw from the Arren Williams collection for The Bay is one of those accessories that might not stay on the bed for long; it's also the perfect road trip companion in the car or can offer up a shoulder hug on a chilly night while sitting outside. If used to decorate the bed, be sure to drape it casually over the bottom corner; your bed will look like you just finished a stylish magazine-worthy photo shoot.
MORE BEDROOM IDEAS
Here are more easy ways to help create a cool summer vibe.
■ Put a slipcover over your headboard with cotton or linen fabric or hang an ironed linen bedsheet over the headboard for a quick colour change.
■ Roll up heavy rugs and store them under the bed to keep floors cool underfoot.
■ Hang inexpensive gauzy drapes to create an airy/billowy effect on windows; let the summer breeze blow them around the windows.