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It feels like a second ago that we were all toasting the New Year, but alas, spring is here. And that means we’re gearing up for the light-filled days ahead. Of course, part of that planning involves getting our patios prepped. After all, when the sunshine finally hits, we want to be ready (preferably with a drink in hand). But getting everything in order extends well beyond what meets the eye. Furnishings have to survive spring showers and the inevitable spills and splatters that come with pool parties and backyard barbecues.
Sunbrella fabrics are some of our go-tos for this very reason. Designed for the outdoors, they are specially crafted to withstand midseason downpours and sun-drenched days. In other words? Not only do they stand up to the elements—they won’t fade and are super easy to clean (just blot and dry), so the colors will shine bright through all the seasons. It helps that Sunbrella fabrics are a visual treat, too. Featuring everything from lush banana-leaf prints to classic cabana stripes, Sunbrella brings vacation vibes straight to your home. Ahead, we tapped our design-obsessed editors to spill on (get it?) their favorite Sunbrella fabrics as well as the pieces they’re most excited to pair them with.
Julie’s Pairing for Alfresco Refreshments
“I can’t think of anything that says ‘summer’ more than a cabana stripe. The bold, classic pattern is the perfect backdrop for a tray of fresh fruit or icy cocktails. Blu Dot’s Perch ottoman also provides a stylish, neutral base to kick up your feet and soak in the rays. The perfect combo!”
Lindsey’s Ideal Spot to Laze Away the Day
“There’s nothing better than an afternoon with no plans other than a good book…unless you swap your go-to living room armchair for Crate & Barrel’s oversize Dune lounger in your backyard. This breezy setup most definitely wins. Factor in the piece’s fade-resistant mesh frame, paired with Sunbrella’s chic CW Stockwell print, and I’m ready to bask in the summer sun—and that epic story arc—for as long as I damn well please.”
Kate’s Stylish Sun Protection
“My favorite accessory in my garden is my Eastport umbrella—it has such pretty curves. It would accompany the stripes featured on the Sail Away Aloe fabric on a chaise longue beautifully. The fabric is a nice complement to all the natural foliage. The muted blue and green combination blends with the colors of the sky and plants, and would play well with any landscape.”
Morgan’s Bright Secret to a Good Dinner Party
“A powder-coated patio dining set may look sleek, but sitting on slats of metal can only be tolerated for so long. It would be easier to convince guests to linger outdoors after happy hour and stay for dinner if my bistro chairs had a bit more softness. Add cozy cushions in this mossy green along with the Scribe Geo outdoor pillow to the mix—a plush combination my concrete balcony is desperately missing—and all that would be left to do is dish out the plates and refill empty glasses.”
Julia’s Sunny Small-Space Solution
“A pop of color is always welcome, especially on those not-so-sunny spring days. I’d cover coin-shaped pillows and foam floor cushions in this mustard fabric along with peppering in these HILA Dusty Rose pillows—scattering them around the terrace. My dream for ultra-flexible seating that has a playful, summery color combo is now complete.”
Angela’s Seating for a Chill Poolside Party
“I love the off-white color of this Blu Dot outdoor sofa. It provides a soft, subtle base for hanging and gathering outside. I envision it positioned next to the Sunbrella Create Haze fabric, offering a low-key graphic effect.”