13 things we learned from our summer issue

written by  ALYSSA CLOUGH

Summer is the official season of FUN, a word we definitely think our latest issue embodies. We’d also describe it as very much minimalist, metallic, neon, and fruit-filled. It’s not all fun and games, though. There are some serious lessons in there, too. Keep reading to learn how to master the art of summer designing, decorating, and entertaining—sophisticated Jell-O shots included.

1. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF A BEAUTIFULLY ARRANGED PLATE

   —even if it’s just sliced tomatoes.

2. SORRY, #SHELFIE.

   Cool cabinets are having a moment. Take Alyson Fox’s very metallic bathroom, for instance.

3. THE PALOMA IS THE NEW MARGARITA.

   And everything is better lakeside

4. MINIMALISM DOESN’T HAVE TO BE BORING. 

   Take this triangular mirror in blogger Pennyweight’s Nashville home.

5. THE FIDDLE LEAF FIG

   is still our go-to statement-making house plant.

6. NEW YORKERS STILL AREN’T OVER CAFE HENRIE.

   (The food OR the decor.)

7. IF YOU’RE GOING TO BE ENTERTAINING OUTSIDE, YOU NEED AN OUTDOOR BAR CART. 

   (Don’t worry, there are a ton of different ways to use it.)

8. THE OMBRE TREND IS ALIVE AND WELL

   —in the home Linda and John Meyers, aka the soap and candle masterminds behind Wary Meyers.

9. BRASS FIXTURES ARE IN

   and make an easy update to any kitchen or bathroom.

10. JELL-O SHOTS HAVE OFFICIALLY GRADUATED FROM COLLEGE. 

    This basil-infused watermelon recipe proves it.

11. THE KEY TO A BEAUTIFUL APARTMENT IS STILL HAVING GOOD BONES.

    See: The white-painted exposed brick wall and beamed ceilings in cool couple Daphne Javitch and Pali Xisto Cornelsen’s apartment.

12. NEON SIGNS ARE HERE TO STAY

    —as is pastel pink. We found both in Megan Ferguson’s living room.

13. LIFE AS A TODDLER REALLY CAN BE THAT CHIC. 

    This is a custom daybed for two-and-a-half-year-old Liles. Yeah, we’re jealous.