6 Affordable Summer Decorating Tips You Shouldn’t Miss

Summer is finally here, and with that, you may be looking for some clever ways to update your decor to welcome the warmer months. Whether you’re hoping to tackle the inside of your home, the outside, or both, you won’t want to miss these design tips for transforming your space.

Now is the perfect time to buy some new yard decor, welcome a new scent into your home, and more! Below, we share six budget-friendly summer decorating tips you shouldn’t miss.

New vases and containers on display

Use summer as an opportunity to purchase new vases and containers to display both indoors and outdoors.

“Combining vibrant blooms with unique new vases adds interest and a fresh perspective,” says Leah Alexander, founder of Beauty Is Abundant.

Maggie Clarke, founder of Maggie Clarke Interiors, loves to look for vintage flower pots when possible, and visits garage sales or flea markets for trendy finds.

Once you have gathered your new collection of potted plants, you will want to arrange them like a professional designer.

“The way I usually arrange potted plants is to put a tall object in the middle, a colorful object in the second layer, and something that spills over the edge of the pot,” says Clarke.

Want more design inspiration? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest decorating ideas, design tips, and more!

Create a cozy outdoor space

Melissa Oholendt, founder of Oho Interiors, notes that we often think of the backyard as an entertaining space, but it’s important to remember that this isn’t the only function of your outdoor area — there’s really nothing better than spending a lazy summer day soaking up the sun.

Oholendt loves creating a cozy outdoor space for everyday moments, whether it’s relaxing and enjoying a glass of wine or reading a few pages of a favorite book.

Take inspiration from inside your home when designing this relaxing space. Jess Harrell, founder of The Styled Domicile, recommends treating your outdoor space like your living room.

You’ll also want to be thoughtful when choosing decorations, prioritizing both function and aesthetics.

“It would be nice to add a cordless light or two to really add to the atmosphere as dusk falls,” says Oholendt.

Bring in softer colors

Put away those fall or winter throws and pillowcases and bring in some lighter tones. Doing so will help your space feel light and airy during the summer months, says Brianna Untener, founder of Brianna Scott Interiors.

Buy colorful drinks

Even the smallest home improvements like changing out your glassware will make your space feel more festive this summer.

“Colorful drinks are a relatively easy way to add some summer energy and make cocktails, mocktails and sparkling waters appealing,” says Alexander.

Don’t stop at just fun cups, add woven coasters to decorate cocktails around the house, says Kelsey Haywood, founder of Haywoodmade Interiors.

Try outdoor rugs

Take more inspiration from indoor spaces and make your screened porch or patio more complete or cozy by adding a rug.

“There are great outdoor options that are weatherproof and easy to clean,” says Alison Haltom, founder of Design for Living by AH. “Our favorites are recycled polyester and don’t have a lot of texture or are downy for easier maintenance. It’s time for a barefoot summer!”

Enjoy a new scent

Oholendt shares that just like you change your perfume with the seasons, you should also consider using a new fragrance for your home in the summer.

Changing the scents in your home with the seasons will allow you to bring new scents that are more appropriate for your home during the warmer months. For example, citrus scents or coastal scents can create a brighter atmosphere.

“Whether it’s using a scented smart plug or adding candles to light for summer entertaining, to celebrate a clean house on the weekend or just a casual Thursday night, change up your current scent routine by switching to a new, lighter, fresher scent,” says Oholendt.