Stripes have been part of summer outdoor style for decades and they continue to appear on everything from parasols and deckchairs to cushions, towels and tablecloths. They are easy to recognise, easy to combine and work particularly well in settings close to the coast.

Blue and white may be the classic combination, but outdoor stripes now come in almost every colour. Red and white can bring more contrast to a garden or terrace, while green, sand, terracotta and softer neutral shades work well with natural surroundings.

The width of the stripe can change the look considerably. Fine stripes tend to feel quieter and work well for table linen and smaller cushions. Wider stripes make more of an impact on larger pieces such as parasols, mattresses, rugs and beach towels.

There is no need to use the same pattern everywhere. A striped cushion can sit beside a plain one, while different stripe widths can be combined if the colours relate to each other. Natural materials such as wood, rattan, linen and woven baskets help balance stronger patterns.

Stripes are particularly useful when an outdoor space needs a little colour without adding many decorative objects. A few cushions on a wooden bench or a striped cloth over a table can change the look of a terrace without replacing the furniture.

They also move easily between different outdoor settings. The same pattern that works on a Mediterranean terrace can appear on a picnic blanket, beach bag or garden chair. This makes striped textiles easy to reuse throughout the summer.

And blue and white does not have to mean a nautical theme. Combined with natural wood, simple ceramics and relaxed fabrics, the colours can feel just as at home in a garden or countryside setting as beside the sea.

Inspired by blue and white?
Discover Mykonos →

#OutdoorLiving #OutdoorTextiles #SummerStripes #CoastalLiving #SeasaltAndPicnics