Summer Style

Straw, wicker,blue and white....China Seas Ikat II Fabric

While I am very happy living in Sacramento....it is a great town for family life...every summer I yearn for the beach Tim and I left behind when we moved here. Straw hats, straw bags, and watery blues all conjure up the feel of summer for me. This little spot on the landing between our main floor and my office in the basement is one I pass every day on my way to "work". It is a little "ode to summer" altar of sorts, and houses my collection of wicker bottles and a watercolor by my Mom of the Pavilion on Balboa Bay where I spent every summer growing up.

When I saw the cover of the latest Martha Stewart Living magazine which came yesterday, I dug right in. The cover hinted at the fresh beach house style inside....something I am craving right now in our 100 plus heat this week. I found some easy and fun ideas in here that would add a one-of-a-kind note to your own summer style.

Paint dipped Baskets

Martha Stewart Living, August 2010 , Photo by Dana Gallagher

These paint dipped baskets become functional art with their graphic white (or red!) stripes. I dream of carrying towels and a good book to the beach in a tote like this ....a trip to San Diego later this summer is in the planning stages!

Blue Dipped Pillows. Martha Stewart Living August 2010, Photo by Dana Gallagher

I loved these blue dipped pillows, especially the one done with blue ticking. Hmm...perfect for my Family Room. There is so much more in this article, as well as the whole issue, so you might want to pick up a copy....or at least thumb through while waiting in line at the market with your watermelon and ice cream....lots of fresh and cool ideas.

My youngest had some friends over yesterday to try out some Rit dye techniques.....after watching them I am ready to get going with my own pillow project!

Are you changing anything in your house this summer?