This summer, I’m all about breezy coastal vibes and that laid back Cali-casual aesthetic that everyone wants to achieve. Embracing cohesion between indoor and outdoor spaces, the California cool aesthetic champions relaxed living, using both rustic elements for a laidback feel, as well as cool colors like whites, blues, and greens for added ease of design.
Modern coastal decor is therefore all about timeless looks that still feel lived-in at the same time, but it can be hard to find retailers that truly nail that exact aesthetic. That’s why I was so thrilled to discover that Banana Republic had a whole chic home site that I’d never looked at before, and upon perusing their summer collection, I really wished I’d had the brand in my life years earlier.
Each look is highly sophisticated, expertly crafted with only the best materials, but earthy and characterful at the same time. This mix of nostalgia and contemporary is found in every element of the collection, all the way from the marble-topped coffee table to the comfy wool throws in classic colors. Here are my top picks from Banana Republic Home for a casual, yet luxe experience.
Clean lines and natural marble striations bring a modern look to this side table, and the sculptural top makes a statement.
Luxurious leather is cut and pieced together by hand for the base of this luxe throw pillow cover, while the fringe detailing adds depth.
This calming wool-cotton blend throw adds just enough warmth for breezy nights, while the twin rows of looped fibers add rich texture not seen elsewhere.
Bent wood gives this dining chair an elegant silhouette, complete with a graceful curved back and sleek arms and legs.
Expertly crafted from rich mango wood and featuring a stylish ebony finish, this hand-chiseled side table is all about the rustic vibes.
Available in two sizes in order to easily store all your favorite trinkets, the Margaux Tray contains smooth lines and subtle texture in a sleek white hue for a clean look.
Cut from solid travertine, this table lamp is all about modern elegance, while the curved shade is a nod to traditional Danish design.
Created from reinforced concrete for added durability but smoothed out with curved contours, this round coffee table is an architectural masterpiece if there ever was one.
This is a clean-lined, simple look that will go well in any home decor scheme. Each piece has also been lightly padded in order to soften the silhouette and add a relaxed feel to the look.
Handmade by skilled artisans in India, this expertly distressed rug combines a low pile with an intricate ancient design for a unique option that’ll work well in a high-traffic area.
Juxtaposing an asymmetric pattern with a sleek white and black color scheme, this throw pillow keeps things interesting without going minimalist.
This dynamic convex mirror uses a unique curvature pattern in order to allow you to see more of your space, and of course, the dark black border is a timeless style for everyone.
I don’t know how this vase nails classic and contemporary at the same time, but by taking a traditional ceramic container and adding cute handles on either side, it manages to do just that.
Fine linen has been richly striped against a clean white background for a graphic feel on this comfy duvet cover that nails modern coastal in one swift look.
This chair’s airy design comes from the fact that it’s been woven from natural cane that’s been hand-wrapped around a wood frame by artisans in Malawi. Using braids, twists, and cables, the intricate geometry creates a stunning statement chair.
For coastal decor with a refined touch, you really do need to get your hands on some of the items from Banana Republic’s summer collection. From natural elements like rattan and cane to contemporary metals and marble, the brand mixes relaxed California styles with modern materials for a new take on beachy vibes.
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Salvador Dalí's '60s terrace embodies the Spanish landscapes that inspired a generation of modern artists – now, Mediterranean gardens are trending againArchival images of the surrealist painter's terrace show the cypress trees, olives, and limestone that exemplify the Costa Brava – it will never go out of style
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This fruity twist on bruschetta will be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike and is so easy to throw togetherThis apple toast with ricotta, warm apple compote and crispy sage is sweet, creamy and crunchy - prep in advance to assemble on the day
