Make a Splash: 8 Summertime Accessories

Enjoy time poolside with these eight items perfect for summertime.

 

final graphic1. Outdoor Printed Medallion Ikat Pillow – $79.00
This plush pillow features a trendy medallion ikat motif and is made from weather-resistant spun polyester. It’s fast-drying and perfect to have poolside.

2. Stainless-Steel and Glass Lantern – $34.99
This stainless-steel lantern is a perfect accent for any outdoor décor. Use it as a centerpiece on your table, and consider adding citronella pillar candles inside to ward off pesky bugs.

3. Embossed Acrylic Glasses, 16 oz. (set of 4) – $49.00

This acrylic drink ware is unbreakable and perfect for any poolside day. The elegant pastel blue is the perfect complement to any summer décor.

4. Inflatable Flip Flop Pool Float – $18.99
Enjoy lazy pool days floating on this playful flip flop pool float. Made of heavy-duty vinyl, this float provides a durable headrest and even a cupholder. It will surely stand out at your next pool party.

5. Straw Sun Hat – $198.00
Protect yourself from the sun’s harsh rays and sit outside comfortably with this elegant and stylish lightweight sun hat.

6. Insulated-Steel Cooler, 54 qt. – $159.95
Keep your food and beverages cold in style with this sleek blue cooler. Made from durable, insulated steel, this cooler features an exterior bottle opener, battery-operated lid light, rubber-gripped handles, a leak-resistant drain, and a solid steel latch.

7. Wireless Waterproof Speaker – $89.99
Enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks while you relax poolside with this outdoor-friendly waterproof speaker. It features a 40-hour battery life and includes Siri, a speakerphone, and Google Now.

8. Waterproof Playing Cards – $8.99
These waterproof playing cards are perfect for summer fun in any outdoor space. Take them camping, to the pool, or beach for countless hours of entertainment. They’re washable, flexible, and easy to shuffle.

 

 

 

How to Style a Bar Cart

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If you’ve been keeping up with home décor trends, then you’re likely aware of the resurgence of the bar cart.

 

Originating as tea trolleys in the Victorian era, these beverage carts became a home for alcoholic elixirs after Prohibition ended. It wasn’t until the 1950s that these carts gained popularity, when entertaining and cocktail hours became a cultural norm.

 

When home architecture began to include built-in wet bars and spaces for entertaining in the 1970s, the bar cart became an image of the past.

 

But alas! Bar carts have made their way back into mainstream homes, pleasing cocktail lovers, Mad Men fans, and home décor enthusiasts alike.

 

Bar carts can not only be used to display your apéritifs, but also as a side table, nightstand, art easel, and more.

 

Want one in your own home? All it takes is a little creativity and a few must-have items.

 

1. Liquor
A variety of classic cocktails can be made with just these items:  vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and bitters. Vermouth should also be at the top of your list: dry is a must for martini fans, while sweet allows you to make other drinks, like Manhattans. If you still want more variety, brandy and Aperol are great additions, as well as any flavored liqueur you enjoy (i.e. Cointreau, Frangelico, St. Germain).
 
2. Mixers
Must-have mixers for your bar cart include tonic water, club soda, ginger beer, and cola. In fall and winter, you may consider adding apple cider to the mix. These mixers give you the ability to create a drink for virtually any taste preference.
 
3. Citrus
A few lemons, limes, and oranges in a bowl are both a functional and decorative addition to a bar cart. Use them to make drinks, garnish, and add a pop of color to your cart.
 
4. Barware (glasses and tools)
A bar cart is nothing without the tools. You’ll need a cocktail shaker, measuring unit (like a jigger), stirring spoon, strainer, bar board, pairing knife, corkscrew, and a variety of glasses. Additional options are an ice bucket, muddler, zester, and cocktail picks. Bar tools come in a variety of styles, so you can easily find something that fits the aesthetic you’re aiming for.
 
5. Plants
Adding a plant or flower is another way to bring an air of freshness to a bar cart. A simple clear or white vase never fails, but you can also pick something colorful or quirky.
 
6. Trinkets
If your cart isn’t too crammed by now, it’s time for the fun stuff. Adding a random object that speaks to you is the best way to complete your bar cart. Books, clocks, candlesticks, artwork, etc. are all great pieces to add that finishing touch.
 
Feeling inspired to decorate your own bar cart? These ones are the perfect blank canvas.
 
Bar Carts
1. Velma Mirrored Serving Cart – $134.99
2. Victoria Serving Cart – $115.99
3. Dante Bar Serving Cart – $292.99
4. Metal, Wood, and Leather Bar Cart – $129.99
5. Renee Bar Cart – $499
6. Wood and Gold Bar Cart – $129.99
7. Healy Acrylic Kitchen Cart – $195.49
8. Hobbs Bar Cart – $269.00