6 Simple Steps to Create a Lovely Summer Table

In this post: If you enjoy the ease of summer, try using pretty table linens, chair covers, and these 6 simple steps to create a lovely summer table setting.⇒

If you could use only one fabric to decorate your house, what would it be?

For me it’s easy…

White linen.

And if I could have two, I’d add natural linen.

This is particularly true in summer, when the breezy fabric adds a delightfully carefree vibe to any space it graces.

A Lovely Summer Table

As the sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, summer is the perfect time to create a table setting that reflects the relaxed and joyful spirit of this season. Whether you’re planning a casual backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a gathering with friends and family, the inspiration you’ll glean from this airy tablescape will guide you through the process of designing your own table that bears a touch of summer magic.

For this table, I wanted the look to be casual and easy and everything about it says summer to me, from the bare naked table to the garden plants. I decided to style this simple summer table with linen figuring prominently in several of my tablescape choices.

Here are 6 simple steps to a lovely summer table.

1. Table Linens

Since the essence of this summer table setting is the use of stonewashed linen, the table linens became the star of the show, not in the sense of an attention grabbing focal point, but more in the way they set the tone for the character of the table. These lovely linen napkins and the pretty table runner have the perfect drape and casual ease.  

2. Chair Covers

In addition to what is featured on the table top, perhaps my favorite aspect is what dresses up the chairs. These ruffled linen chair covers are the perfect French Country accessory for a summer table setting, but there is also a simpler style for the farmhouse fans. Using chair covers is a super fast way to add style to your dining chairs and is also practical given how easy they are to wash.

3. Dried Lavender

It’s hard to think of anything more emblematic of summer than rolling fields of French lavender. For my table I used dried bunches tucked in hobnail mason jars, the most effortless decoration for a relaxed tablescape. The scent they provide is heavenly and I pulled a few sprigs off to nestle into my vintage napkin rings.

4. Rattan Chargers

For the actual place setting I went as simple as can be, with crisp white dinnerware and rattan chargers. There’s no question that rattan lends a subliminal reminder of summer as it’s often used in outdoor furniture. I love the contrast of the clean white plates against the natural rugged rattan.

5. Garden Planters

For the centerpiece, I only had a few minutes left (as this table needed to be set in 20 minutes… ;-)), so I went out to the patio and grabbed these awesome little clay pots, already planted with African violets. They’re sweet and pretty and go with my easy-going theme as their distressed finish looks great with the washed linen.

6. Gingham Check

And how could I leave out that truest of summer staples? I had to give a nod to gingham check. I added a charming checked ribbon to my lavender bouquets for the quintessential finishing touch. It reminds me of the dresses that little girls wear in summer, when their little toes are running through the summer grass. I can practically feel the soft summer breeze of an afternoon in the countryside!

I use linen in my home all year long, but there’s no more perfect time and place than in a summer table setting.

And since you’d never really be limited on the number of fabrics you can use in your home, you can add it confidently to your mix with reckless abandon!

Tips for Creating a Relaxed Chic Summer Table

• White Linen Tablecloth: Start with a crisp white linen tablecloth as the base for a fresh, breezy look.
• Neutral Placemats: Use neutral-colored placemats like beige or light gray to add texture without overwhelming the setting.
• Elegant Dinnerware: Opt for simple, elegant white dinnerware to keep the look clean and sophisticated.
• Textured Napkins: Add white or light-colored linen napkins, ideally with a textured or fringed edge for a casual yet refined touch.
• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like woven rattan chargers or bamboo utensils to bring a touch of the outdoors in.
• Soft Florals: Use soft, pastel-colored flowers like peonies or hydrangeas in clear glass vases or rustic mason jars for a relaxed, summery feel.
• Candles in Hurricanes: Place white or ivory candles in glass hurricane holders for a warm, inviting glow as the sun sets.
• Lightweight Glassware: Choose clear, lightweight glassware with a simple design to keep the table feeling airy.
• Seashell Accents: Scatter a few seashells or driftwood pieces around the table for a coastal vibe.
• Simple Centerpiece: Keep the centerpiece low and simple to encourage conversation, such as a row of small vases with single blooms or a long, shallow bowl filled with fruit.
• Soft Color Palette: Stick to a soft, muted color palette with shades of white, beige, soft blues, and greens for a cohesive and calming effect.
• Outdoor-Friendly Materials: Use outdoor-friendly materials for any additional decor, like woven lanterns or melamine dishes, if dining alfresco.
• Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or lavender tied around napkins or placed in small pots for a touch of greenery and a lovely scent.
• Breezy Seating: Use light-colored cushions or throws on chairs to enhance comfort and add a relaxed, laid-back feel to the seating area.
• Minimalistic Approach: Keep the overall look minimalistic to emphasize the relaxed summer vibe and avoid cluttering the table.

Please be sure to visit all of the other posts below:

StoneGable | How to Style a Functional and Fabulous Nightstand

Thistlewood Farm | Ideas for Decorating with Lamps

French Country Cottage | 20 Minute Decorating Ideas for 4th of July

On Sutton Place | Simple Round Coffee Table Styling Ideas