5 Easy Summer Updates for your home!

Summer is a time to shed the layers--clothing and home decor. Try these five, easy summer updates for a breath of fresh air in your home.

When you were a kid, did your mom ever tell you to "think cool thoughts" as you complained of being hot?  One way to start is with your decor. Since we're at the end of summer (in retail-speak only) there are a ton of sales so now is a great time to make some updates without breaking the bank.

One of the first things I would suggest for an adaptable interior is a neutral canvas. It is going to be difficult to blend your "pops" of summer or seasonal color with a crazy couch and wall paint! So, IF you're in to tasteful, seasonal decorating and you have one of everything in your favorite color (chartreuse??), you may want to start toning it down. Assuming you have that under control, here are our 5 picks for easy, summer updates!

1.  Seasonal Curb Appeal:

pinterest

Try some cute potted plants or flowers and/or hanging baskets on your front porch (or stoop). They will instantly draw your eye to the front door! Fully shaded front porch? No worries, check out this awesome shade loving potted plant I just saw on pinterest! Don't forget to water, water, water in this heat. Dead plants are not fabulous! Trust me on this one.

2.  A Welcoming Front Door:

Choose a wonderful color like this yellow:

That will keep you happy all year long!

3. A Wreath & A Welcome Mat:

As your guests are waiting for you to answer their knock, they're looking around and getting their first sense of your style.  I suggest keeping a wreath on your door. I think that *may* be a southern thing since a friend of mine from the midwest told me they only do that when someone dies. While that is a depressing thought, a nice wreath can keep you and your guests happy, without anyone dying! You can make your own or go somewhere like Michael's or AC Moore where floral designers can assist!

Check out the one Jacki made for me for Valentines Day. I think she loves me!!

Fact: no one feels welcome on a faded/worn out/half chewed by the dog door mat! Seriously, you can get one at Target (for you Frenchies, its pronounced Tar-jay) for less than $15. If yours fits into the above category, skip lunch out with your girlfriends and go get one. Like now. 

4: Slipcovers

White matches with almost anything. Add a couple of white slipcovered chairs to your dining space for instant brightening! 

Check out this sweet spot from the 2008 HGTV Green Home:

*Bonus: You can add pillows that will invite your guests to linger long after the meal is over!

**Double bonus: You can throw them in the wash when your kids get crazy on enchilada night.

5. Matelasse Coverlet:

Heavy, dark, damask is for winter. Lighten up! If you have a heavier comforter or duvet, add a light, matelasse coverlet and some matching pillows. My personal style is to fold the heavier bed covering at the foot of the bed for layering and interest!

Catherine's bed

We go into more detail in our post on how to make an adorable bed.

I hope these tips have inspired you to make some frugal, summertime updates around your place! Try to stay cool!

Today, we're linking up with our peeps at The Dedicated House, Skip to my Lou, Sumo's Sweet Stuff, CraftoManiac Monday, Motivate Me Monday at Keeping it Simple and Mom 4 Real! Swing on over and check out all the cool ideas posted at these link parties!