6 Budget-Friendly Summer Decorating Tips You Shouldn't Overlook, Designers Say

The summer season is finally here, and with that, you may be looking for some clever ways to amp up your decor in honor of these warmer months. Whether you're hoping to address the inside of your home, the outside, or both, you won't want to miss out on these designer tips for switching up your space.

Now is the perfect time to purchase some new patio decor, welcome a new fragrance into your home, and more! Below, we share six budget-friendly summer decorating tips you shouldn't overlook.

Display New Vases and Vessels

Use the summer season as an opportunity to purchase new vases and vessels to display both indoors and out.

"Pairing vibrant blooms with new unique vessels adds interest and fresh perspective," Leah Alexander, the founder of Beauty Is Abundant, says.

Maggie Clarke, the founder of Maggie Clarke Interiors, likes to source vintage flowerpots when possible, visiting estate sales or flea markets in search of stylish finds.

Once you've assembled your new collection of pots, you'll want to arrange them like a pro designer.

"My go-to for arranging pots is something tall in the middle, something colorful as the second layer, and something that will spill over the side on the outsides," Clarke says.

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Create a Cozy Outdoor Spot

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

Oholendt loves to create a cozy outdoor area for everyday moments whether it's relaxing and enjoying a glass of wine or reading a few pages of a favorite book.

Take cues from the inside of your home when designing this relaxing spot. Jess Harrell, the founder of The Styled Domicile, recommends treating your outdoor space as a living room.

You will also want to be thoughtful about your accent pieces, prioritizing both the functional and the aesthetically pleasing.

"Bonus points to include a cordless lamp or two to really up the ambiance as dusk falls," Oholendt says.

Bring in Lighter Colors

Put away throw blankets and pillow covers that are more fall or winter-like and bring in some lighter tones. Doing so will make your space feel light and airy during the summer months, Brianna Untener, the founder of Brianna Scott Interiors, says.

Purchase Colorful Drinkware

Even the smallest of home upgrades like switching your glassware will make your space feel more seasonal and festive this summer.

"Colorful drinkware is another relatively easy way to up the ante on summer energy and make cocktails, mocktails, and sparkling water sing," Alexander says.

Don't just stop with fun cups and go the extra mile by adding woven coasters to dress up indoor cocktails, Kelsey Haywood, the founder of Haywoodmade Interiors, says.

Try Area Rugs Outdoors

Draw even more inspiration from your indoor space and make your patio or screen porch feel a bit more complete or welcoming with the addition of an area rug.

"There are great outdoor options that stand up to the elements and are easily cleaned," Alison Haltom, the founder of Design for Living by AH, says. "Our favorites are recycled polyester and don’t have a lot of texture or a pile for easier maintenance. It’s time for a barefoot summer!"

Enjoy a New Scent

Just like you may change your perfume pick for the season, you should consider enjoying a new home fragrance during the summertime, Oholendt shares.

Changing out your home's scent seasonally will allow you to introduce new notes to your home that are more fitting for the warmer months. For example, a citrus or coastal scent may set a brighter ambiance.

"Whether by a scent-dispensing smart plug-in or adding a candle to burn during summer hosting, to celebrate a clean home on a weekend, or just your average Thursday evening, switch up your existing scent routine by swapping for a new lighter, fresh scent," Oholendt says.