7 Ways to Decorate Outdoor Spaces with Stripes

This post was updated May 2022.

After the big chill of winter, your outdoor porch furniture could probably use a little TLC. What if we told you there was a simple way to give your outdoor decor an instant makeover? The answer lies in two words: striped furniture.

Yes, striped furniture. These alternating bands of colors pack a punch, which is exactly the kind of jolt your porch or patio needs. Whether you’re planning outdoor entertaining or simply want a seat next to your barbecue, a little refresh can go a long way. Here are some of our favorite ways to refresh with stripes your outdoor porch furniture for dining, lounging and entertaining.

1. Striped Furniture — Bold and Beautiful

The high-contrast duo of black and white adds sophistication — and a little drama — to an outdoor space. For major impact, repeat the pattern on outdoor furniture cushions, outdoor drapery, and even pillows. It’s okay to vary the scale, but keep the color the same. Here, we went bold with a combination of pillows, seat cushions and an outdoor rug.

2. Curtain Call

Outdoor curtains are so incredibly versatile they’re on our must-have list for any outdoor room. They block the sun and heat, provide privacy from nearby neighbors and help define an outdoor room. Panels with vertical stripes draw the eye up and give the illusion of more height, making the outdoor space feel grand.

3. Lounge Time

Cushions are the perfect way to add both comfort and style to an outdoor porch furniture, making them another must for us. Replacing your cushions at the start of the new season is an inexpensive and easy way to change up your look. This year, make it striped.

4. Striped Furniture Made In the Shade

Do you have a shadeless backyard that does not offer respite from the afternoon sun? Here’s your chance to turn something so utilitarian into a fun fashion statement. Simultaneously block the sun and catch the attention of your guests with a fetching striped umbrella canopy.

5. Easy Does It

If you’re looking for a super simple solution that doesn’t break the bank, then pillows are your answer. Add a few striped pillows to your seating to kick up the color and draw the eye. We especially love ticking for its classic yet casual aesthetic.

6. Nautical by Nature

You don’t have to live in a beach house to create a seaside vibe. It’s as easy as adding crisp navy-and-white stripes to your patio. There’s just something so refreshingly simple and summery about this classic maritime combination. Of course, if you want to take the theme to the next level, add in other coastal elements and motifs, like anchors, paddles, ropes and seashells.

7. Table It

When the weather warms up, move dinner outdoors for a change — and don’t let lack of furniture deter you. You can impress your guests and family with a well-dressed table setting while keeping an unsightly card table under wraps. The tablecloth dresses it up just enough while the stripes keep it casual.

Find more outdoor decorating ideas on our Pinterest page or in the related articles below:

• Backyard Pool Ideas: Best Decorating Tips for a New Pool
• 25 Dreamy Patios, Pools, and Porches
• 15 Ways to Arrange Outdoor Furniture
• 8 Simple Ways to Punch Up Your Outdoor Room
• Easy Garden Ideas from Designer Bunny Williams

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