Island Chic Inspiration
West Indies decor is more than a nautical palette. To evoke island chic, integrate some natural fibers such as wicker, rattan and bamboo. Use baskets as storage or lighting, and add shells and coral as accessories. A touch of hand-printed batik pattern, and hanging lanterns bring a throw-caution-to-the-wind feel.
Natural capiz shells are tinted 3 beautiful shades of blue and crafted into this hanging chandelier. Gorgeous sounding chime outdoors. (Light component not included, but easily added to make a gorgeous light fixture!) Longest strands are 40″ long. $98.00 at westend.com.
Regina Andrew Design’s home collection describes a vision of living within a combination of upscale modern and antique collectibles. Traditionally found on the floor as a rug, jute makes an unexpected appearance as a casual hanging light. This saucer-shaped pendant adds texture to a room with its natural, beachy look. Make a statement over a dining room table by pairing it with Regina Andrew’s apple and cigar jute pendants, sold separately. $373. A relaxed chandelier that artfully mixes modern with rustic and elegant with casual. Strand upon strand of wooden beads shape this coastal-inspired chandelier for a chic look in a dining room or foyer. Its frame is distressed for aged appeal. Chandelier measures 26.5″ round x 46″H
The Udaipur Pendant is the perfect blend of design and material; bringing the outdoor environment indoors, giving this beach-inspired piece a very natural feel. Accepts one 60 watt bulb (not included). Includes 8′ Antique Bronze Chain w/ Brown Cord.
Natural and Outdoor Accents
Coral specimens marry vintage style with modern flair that’s truly timeless. A simple way to incorporate the natural feeling of the beach in any room, this white ribbon coral on a crystal base puts a contemporary spin on coastal decor. At $85 on laylagrace.com, this also makes a great hostess gift.
Natural textures are the new bling. And now you can add beautiful natural texture and color to your casual table setting. Ballard Design’s Montserrat Placemats are intricately woven by hand of stiff and sturdy pandan leaves and trimmed in real shells. Set of 4 is $45.
Solar Hanging Lanterns shine in beautiful all-weather fabric. Eye-catching lanterns cast an enchanting glow outdoors without electricity. Hang them around a porch or hang from a handcrafted, collapsible Shepherd’s Hook (sold separately) for a striking display. Constructed from colorful, durable nylon. Fade and water resistant. Round lanterns come with a base stand for tabletop use. Each lantern is illuminated with dual LED lights. $15-$29.
A drum coffee table, with its circular flower-burst design, hammered texture and graceful, ribbed exterior. A burnished aluminum coffee table combines dramatic beauty with practical function. Used indoors or outside, the table provides ample surface space, rustproof durability and lightweight portability. $359 on vivaterra.com.
Bold Batiks and Ikats
Expert quilters created the beautiful motif on this quilt and sham using a traditional Indian block-print technique from Pottery Barn Teen. Each floral paisley is artfully carved into a wooden block, dipped into paint, then carefully applied by hand onto pure cotton. Completely handcrafted, every bedding set is unique.Woven of 100% cotton. Quilt and sham reverse to pink vine print. $29.50 – $164.00
The “Rope Barrel” Table Lamp is an eclectic mix of textures that adds up to one intriguing lamp. Jamie Young Company creates rustic, handcrafted pieces that make interesting lamps and home accessories. Handcrafted of metal, jute, and acrylic with a cinnamon ikat linen shade. It has a three-way switch and uses one 150-watt bulb.
Ikat is a style of weaving that uses a tie-dye process on either the warp or weft, before the threads are woven to create a pattern or design. “Ikat” means “tied” or “bound” which describes the process. Designs may have symbolic of ritual meaning. Ikats are often symbols of status, wealth, power and prestige. These Ikat pillows from Fabracadabra are handwoven and dyed so they often have what would be considered imperfections if they were mass-produced using high powered looms. They can have flecks of other dye colors, looped yarns and what appear to be runs. This is the inherent beauty of a completely handwoven and dyed fabric. Also, the exact dimensions of the pillow covers may vary slightly from the stated ones. $24 – $120.