Your Summer Farmhouse Decorating Guide and Easy Styling Tips

Welcome! Are you ready to infuse your home with that breezy, cheerful farmhouse charm this summer?

As the days grow longer and the sun warms us up, I find myself itching to throw open the windows, let in the fresh air, and give every room a little summer makeover.

Here, I’m including all my favorite summer farmhouse decorating ideas and design tips—from cozy indoor tweaks to delightful outdoor touches.

And don’t worry, I’ll keep things budget-friendly (with a couple of splurge-worthy treats), because I know we all love a good deal (um, me right here!).

So grab a glass of iced tea (or lemonade, your choice!), and let’s dive into creating your perfect summer farmhouse oasis.

I know, I know — you might be thinking, “Farmhouse style? In my home? Jaymie, I don’t actually live on a farm… can I still pull this off?”

Well, I promise you, farmhouse style isn’t about owning a farmhouse at all. It’s about that feeling of warmth and simplicity, the mix of old and new, the cozy meets airy vibe that makes you feel instantly at home.

And yes, you can absolutely achieve it whether you’re in a suburban house, a city apartment, or a real-deal country farmhouse.

We’re in this together, and I’m here to help you every step of the way. Let’s do this!

Embracing the Summer Farmhouse Vibe

Summer has its own special kind of magic, doesn’t it? It’s the season of sunshine, lazy afternoons, and lemonade on the porch.

When it comes to decorating, summer is the perfect time to lighten up your farmhouse style and add a splash of joy to every corner.

Let’s talk about capturing that summer vibe in true farmhouse fashion.

Light, Bright, and Airy Interiors

One thing I adore about summer decorating is how we get to bring the sunshine in. Farmhouse style naturally leans toward light colors and airy spaces, and in summer we take that up a notch.

If you have heavy curtains, consider swapping them for something breezier (hello, white sheer panels fluttering in the breeze).

Even a light cotton bedsheet can work as a curtain in a pinch. This can look surprisingly chic and effortless.

Now, let’s talk colors. In summertime, lean into whites, creams, and soft neutrals as the base of your palette. These colors are classic farmhouse staples that make any space feel open and calm.

But let’s not stop at neutrals (that might be a little too calm for summer). This is the time to layer in pops of color that make you smile.

Think about the hues of a summer meadow: sunny yellows, sky blues, fresh leafy greens, maybe a pop of soft coral or blush pink.

This year, we’re seeing some color trends, like gentle sage greens and even a vibrant yellow-green chartreuse making an appearance in decor magazines.

If that bold chartreuse scares you, no worries—try it out in a small dose, like a throw pillow or a painted tray, to see if you love it.

The key is to mix in these summer colors while keeping the overall vibe relaxed and not too overwhelming.

Consider starting with a neutral base (like a white slipcovered sofa or a natural jute rug) and then layer on seasonal colors.

For example, in your living room you might toss a turquoise throw over the couch and add a couple of yellow throw pillows that pick up that turquoise, along with some sunny yellow.

Instant summer! Don’t be afraid to play with color; summer farmhouse style can be as playful or as mellow as you want it to be.

If you prefer a more subdued look, stick with cool blues and soft greens which give that fresh farmhouse feel without shouting “color!” at you.

On the other hand, if you’re like me and you crave a little vivacity, go ahead and invite cheerful yellows, rosy pinks, or even pops of orange into the mix. After all, it’s your home—surround yourself with whatever summer colors make you happy.

Trending Colors and Patterns for Summer 2025

Being the decor enthusiast I am, I can’t resist keeping an eye on trends, and summer 2025 has some really lovely ones. The good news? Many of them blend perfectly with farmhouse flair. Let’s chat about what’s hot this season and how to use those trends in a timeless way.

Color Trends 2025

This summer, we’re seeing a mix of earthy and optimistic colors. I’m talking warm earthy browns and tans (imagine the color of sand or sunbaked terra cotta pots), balanced with nature-inspired greens and blues (like a muted sage green or a breezy aqua blue).

And just to keep things light, there are also some summer brights in the mix: picture a bold sunny marigold yellow or a coral orange.

Now, you might be raising an eyebrow thinking, “Brown for summer, really?” — but hear me out!

Using an earthy tone like a soft beige or a gentle cinnamon brown as an accent can actually warm up your space and make those lighter colors (your whites and blues) feel more grounded. For example, a camel-colored throw pillow on a white armchair can add depth without making it feel wintry at all. It’s all about balance.

Pattern Trends 2025

Patterns are another great way to sprinkle in some summer excitement. This year, botanical prints are huge. I’m seeing lots of fabrics with big leaf prints, tropical vibes, and florals of all kinds.

You might not immediately think “tropical” for farmhouse style, but a leafy print pillow or a floral wallpaper accent can actually look amazing against farmhouse staples like shiplap or rustic wood.

It adds a fresh, lively contrast — kind of like putting wildflowers in an old mason jar (classic farmhouse move, right?). Speaking of gingham and checks – oh yes, they are forever a farmhouse summer favorite!

A bit of blue-and-white gingham on a tablecloth or some buffalo-check napkins at a picnic table bring instant farmhouse charm and also happen to be timeless.

Stripes, especially in ticking patterns (you know, those thin, even stripes like on old grain sacks) are another nod to farmhouse heritage that never goes out of style.

If you’re feeling a bit bold, mixing patterns is very in for 2025. Try pairing a big floral print with a small gingham check in the same color family. As long as you keep a consistent color palette, mixing patterns adds a cozy, collected-over-time feel that farmhouse style loves.

The beauty of trends is picking what you like and leaving the rest. Farmhouse decor is inherently timeless, so you don’t need to chase every trend.

I like to view trends as spices: a dash of this year’s color or pattern can liven up your space, but the main ingredients (your larger furniture pieces and painted walls) can stay classic.

Maybe this summer you toss a trendy sage green throw over your neutral couch and add a few lemon-patterned kitchen towels (because lemons are surprisingly in style this year – who knew?).

These little touches keep your home feeling current and fresh, but they’re easy to swap out next summer if trends change or if you simply crave a new look.

Timeless Farmhouse Touches with a Summer Twist

Now that we’ve explored trendy colors and patterns, let’s talk timeless farmhouse decor—and how we can freshen it up for summer!

Weathered wood is farmhouse gold, especially when it looks like it’s lived a good, adventurous life (think chippy cabinets or a bargain $10 flea-market ladder).

For summer, add fresh blooms like sunflowers in a simple vase atop your rustic table or drape faux greenery over your well-loved wooden pieces for an instant, effortless update.

And speaking of accents—galvanized buckets, wrought iron lanterns, brass handles—I adore them, but summer calls for a softer approach.

Fill that old bucket with fragrant lavender or wrap lanterns in nautical rope and greenery for a coastal vibe (bonus points for using LED candles to avoid messy meltdowns!).

As for fabrics, swap those heavy burlap runners for breezy linen and cover pillows with cheerful cotton slipcovers.

Finally, farmhouse signs deserve a summer swap too—think “Sweet Summertime” or vintage fruit labels for that delightful seasonal jolt of joy.

Refreshing Your Indoor Farmhouse Decor

Your home’s interior is where you likely spend most of your time, so let’s make it shine with summer spirit. We’ll go room by room (or space by space) with friendly, practical tips to get that farmhouse look just right.

Remember, these ideas are mostly budget-friendly or even free (shopping your own house and doing a little DIY costs nothing, after all).

And where there’s a temptation to spend more, I’ll point it out so you can decide if it’s worth the splurge. Ready to fall in love with your living room, kitchen, bedroom (and even bathroom) all over again? Let’s do this.

Living Room Love: Lighten Up and Lounge

The living room wears many hats: family hangout, TV zone, maybe even your home office. But in summer, I love turning it into a chill-out haven perfect for lazy afternoons and laid-back gatherings.

To achieve that easy-breezy farmhouse feel, start by clearing away clutter—store those heavy winter throws and pillows, tuck away magazines, and roll up thick rugs if you’re brave enough to enjoy bare wood floors (trust me, dancing around to your favorite summer playlist is much easier this way!).

If bare floors aren’t your thing, a lightweight jute or cotton rug adds instant farmhouse charm without weighing down the space.

Slipcovers are a favorite quick fix for refreshing sofas and chairs. A washable white or beige cotton slipcover instantly brightens your room and gives it a cozy, cottage vibe—plus, they’re perfect for lounging worry-free (goodbye, iced tea spills!).

Top your seating with summer pillows and a summer throw. An easy update is to add your favorite summer colors to your mix of throw pillows and throw blankets.

Decorative accents bring everything together beautifully. Showcase summer treasures like seashells in a wooden bowl or driftwood in a tall vase.

Fresh or faux flowers in mason jars or a galvanized jug instantly lift your room’s mood. And here’s a favorite budget tip: gather leafy branches from your yard—friends always ask where I found my “fancy greenery,” and it’s hilariously satisfying to say, “I picked it out back!”

Farmhouse Kitchen Freshen-Up: Cooking with Charm

Kitchens are truly the heart of the home—especially farmhouse kitchens, which feel warm, welcoming, and often smell deliciously like fresh-baked pie (yum!). Summer calls for simplicity, freshness, and beauty.

Start by clearing off those countertops—stash away bulky appliances you’re not using daily (yes, even that giant mixer!).

Now, with this extra breathing space, create a charming farmhouse vignette: prop up a rustic cutting board, set a ceramic pitcher filled with sunny blooms beside it, and maybe add a vintage kitchen scale or lantern for extra charm.

One easy and delightful trick for summer decor is using colorful seasonal produce. A bowl filled with vibrant lemons, peaches, or juicy tomatoes instantly brightens the kitchen—and encourages healthy snacking!

I’ve lost count of how many peaches I’ve eaten simply because they looked irresistible on display.

Refresh your kitchen linens with summery patterns, like gingham, cheerful stripes, or my personal favorite—dish towels dotted with adorable strawberries.

On open shelves, showcase your eclectic thrifted dishes or grandma’s pretty floral china, letting their mismatched charm shine.

And don’t forget a simple centerpiece: a galvanized tray with potted herbs or a glass pitcher filled with water, lemon slices, and mint—functional beauty that invites everyone to sip and linger a bit longer.

Cozy Summer Bedrooms: Light and Dreamy

Ah, the bedroom—our personal sanctuary. Summer is the perfect season to transform it into a bright, airy retreat reminiscent of a charming farmhouse B&B.

Start by swapping out heavy winter bedding for crisp, cool linens or lightweight cotton sheets—I adore percale for its fresh hotel feel. White bedding creates a classic farmhouse look, but subtle florals or pastel stripes can add a sweet seasonal touch.

Add a thin quilt or cotton blanket at the foot of your bed for chilly evenings, and top it off with interesting throw pillows (maybe embroidered sunflowers or ones that say something cute like “Good morning, sunshine!”).

Clearing clutter instantly relaxes the space, so keep nightstands minimal: a cheerful lamp, a vase of fresh blooms (or a couple sprigs from the backyard—no judgment here!), and your latest summer read are all you need.

Lighten any dark artwork or frames by swapping them out for white-framed mirrors or pastel-hued landscapes. For quick farmhouse charm, hang a summer wreath or even a straw hat above your headboard—it adds texture without feeling heavy.

Let your windows breathe with gauzy curtains that softly filter the morning sun; trust me, waking gently with daylight is surprisingly delightful!

Lastly, personalize your bedroom with meaningful photos, whimsical travel mementos, or a gentle lavender linen spray. These thoughtful touches ensure your bedroom feels like a serene, cozy haven all summer long.

Even the Bathroom Gets a Breeze

Bathrooms may be small, but they definitely deserve some summer farmhouse love! Let’s freshen yours up to feel clean, bright, and maybe a bit like a cozy country spa.

Start by swapping those heavy winter towels for fresh whites or soft summer hues—think sky blue or seafoam green. White towels might sound basic, but they’re hotel-chic!

A pretty shower curtain in farmhouse stripes, dainty florals, or a ruffled shabby-chic style instantly elevates the space without breaking the bank.

A small plant or flowers, real or faux, can add life and charm; ferns or succulents are perfect here. Don’t forget the walls!

Hang quirky signs (like one that says “Wash. Brush. Floss. Flush.” or another cute one that makes you smile), woven baskets, or even straw hats for unexpected farmhouse flair.

Finally, let’s talk scent—summer calls for fresh fragrances like citrus, mint, or lavender.

Pop a candle or potpourri on a shelf, or go farmhouse-authentic with a little vase of herbs or wildflowers near the sink.

I once placed mint sprigs in a jar by my sink; every time I washed my hands, a lovely, fresh aroma would release.

Little touches like these will transform your bathroom from overlooked to a dreamy retreat, making everyday routines feel like a relaxing escape to your favorite countryside B&B.

Phew! We’ve danced through the inside of the house, fluffing and fussing (in a good way).

By now, each room should feel a bit lighter, more vibrant, and totally ready for the joys of summer living. But what about beyond the four walls? It’s time to step outside, my friend, because the exterior spaces need some summer farmhouse love too.

Sprucing Up Outdoor Spaces the Farmhouse Way

One of the best parts of summer is enjoying the outdoors, whether you have a sprawling backyard or a teeny apartment balcony.

Farmhouse style shines outside because it’s inherently connected to nature – porches, gardens, and wide-open skies are its happy place.

Let’s take that farmhouse charm to our outdoor spaces, creating corners that beg you to sit a spell with some sweet tea and watch the sunset (or sunrise, if you’re an early bird).

Porch and Patio Charm: Welcome Home

If you’re lucky enough to have a porch or patio, this is prime real estate for farmhouse decor magic. Even a small front stoop can be dressed up.

The goal here is to create a welcoming, cozy outdoor living room where barefoot summer evenings and neighborly chats just happen naturally.

Seating with Character

Start by looking at your seating. A classic farmhouse staples are rocking chairs or Adirondack chairs.

If you have them, fantastic—throw a cute cushion on the seat (maybe in a gingham or floral pattern we talked about) and you’re set

No worries. Any outdoor chair or bench can get the farmhouse treatment. Consider painting wooden chairs white or pastel (use weather-resistant paint) and maybe distress them a bit for that aged look.

Add outdoor cushions or pillows in a mix of stripes and florals. I once took a plain metal patio bench and added a seat cushion covered in a blue-and-white ticking stripe fabric—instantly it felt like it belonged on a farmhouse porch from a movie.

Don’t forget about porch swings if you have a place to hang one.

That’s a bit of a splurge item, but a well-loved swing with pillows and a light throw can be the coziest spot in the whole house (err, outside the house).

Accessorize the Porch

Just as we do inside, we want layers and personal touches outside. Roll out an outdoor rug if you have the space; a simple, woven mat or a patterned rug can define a seating area and add color.

Outdoor rugs have come a long way and many look like indoor ones but can handle rain and sun. On your coffee table or side table (or an upturned wooden crate as a makeshift table – been there!), set a little vignette.

Maybe a lantern with an LED candle, a stack of vintage-looking books (it’s okay if they get a bit weathered), and a little potted plant.

Galvanized metal trays or buckets outside are popular. For example, a small bucket filled with ice and drinks is perfect for a gathering, or a tray that doubles as both a snack carrier and decor when not in use.

If you have a railing or a wall, think about hanging some decor there too.

Signs made for outdoor use, a wreath on the wall (I know someone who hangs a different wreath outside each season—brilliant!), or even an old window frame as wall art can bring indoor charm outside.

Plants and Greenery

Nothing says summer like plants in abundance. For farmhouse style, you don’t need fancy landscaping or rare plants. The humble geranium in a clay pot, sunflowers in a big pitcher, or a mix of wildflowers in a wash tub can steal the show.

Consider using unconventional planters for that quirky farmhouse flair: how about an old tin watering can overflowing with petunias?

Or an apple crate on its side as a planter for some ivy or ferns?

One of my favorite porch looks is a tall galvanized bucket (or even an old milk can, if you can find one at an antique shop) with a big bunch of pampas grass or tall wild grasses — it adds height and a touch of drama.

Hanging baskets are another must if you can manage them.

Ferns are classic on southern-style porches, but any trailing plant will do the trick.

Mason jars are a popular option. They are easy DIYs (fill a mason jar with a bit of sand or pebbles and insert a tea light candle or fairy lights, then hang with twine); at night, they twinkle with a cozy glow.

Line a few up along the porch or table for instant ambiance when the sun goes down.

Welcoming Details

Since porches are the “handshake” of your home, make sure yours says a warm howdy. A welcome mat with a cute design (maybe one that literally says “Welcome” or something cheeky like “Hi y’all” depending on your personality) sets the tone.

Flank your front door with planters or even old barrels filled with plants, if you have the room. And speaking of the front door, have you considered painting it?

A front door refresh can transform your curb appeal. Farmhouse favorites are often red, yellow, or turquoise doors, but choose a color that makes you happy every time you arrive home.

With a porch or patio styled like this, you’ll find yourself making excuses to be outside.

Breakfast coffee, orange juice, tea on the porch? Yes please. Reading on the porch during a rain shower? Even better.

Now, let’s move to the broader outdoors.

Backyard Rustic Retreat: Farmhouse Fun Outside

If you have a bit of yard or garden, big or small, there’s room for farmhouse decor out there too.

Creating a rustic retreat in your backyard means blending comfort, charm, and a touch of that DIY spirit. Let’s explore a few ideas.

Start by creating a welcoming gathering spot—whether it’s around a fire pit, on your deck, or beneath your favorite tree.

Arrange comfy seating like Adirondack chairs, an outdoor sofa or DIY benches from reclaimed wood topped with beautiful outdoor cushions.

Stringing fairy lights or Edison bulbs overhead will instantly elevate your evenings into dreamy, twinkle-lit hangouts.

Dining outdoors is pure summer bliss, so dress up your picnic or patio table farmhouse-style. Toss on a summery gingham or striped tablecloth—even an old bedsheet works wonderfully in a pinch.

Enamelware dishes or classic white plates feel nostalgic and cozy, especially against fresh-picked wildflowers in a mason jar vase (dandelions totally count!).

Keep a handy basket filled with outdoor-friendly dining gear by the door, making spontaneous alfresco meals delightfully easy.

Sprinkle whimsical touches throughout your garden—old chairs as climbing vine supports, vintage bikes with baskets of blooms, or repurposed window frames as trellises (I swear my sweet peas look like living artwork!).

Rustic signs like “Farm Fresh” or playful birdhouses invite personality and charm effortlessly.

Finally, don’t skip garden lighting; solar-powered stake lights along pathways or lanterns hanging from trees turn your yard into a magical nighttime oasis.

With creativity, thriftiness, and that signature farmhouse spirit, your backyard becomes your favorite summer living space.

Tiny Balconies and Apartment Patios: No Space, No Problem!

I hear you saying, “Jaymie, this all sounds great—but my outdoor space is literally a shoebox-sized balcony!” Don’t worry, because even the tiniest balconies can overflow with farmhouse charm. Think of it as creating a little stage set—every single item counts, starting with cozy seating like a cute wrought-iron bistro chair or foldable wooden slat chairs with comfy pillows.

When floor space is tight, vertical decor is your secret weapon. String twinkly lights or festive bunting along the railing to instantly capture that summer feeling. Vertical planters, hanging baskets of ivy or colorful geraniums, and charming mason jar lanterns bring magical farmhouse flair without crowding the space.

A tiny side table or plant stand does double duty, perfect for your morning coffee or displaying a playful lantern or garden gnome.

Need extra privacy? Hang an outdoor curtain panel or set up a tall fern or faux tree for gentle screening, and always keep a cozy throw handy for breezy evenings. Even the smallest balcony can become your dreamy farmhouse hideaway—proof that great style comes in all sizes!

Budget Tips and a Few Worthy Splurges

Decorating doesn’t have to drain your wallet. In fact, farmhouse style practically invented budget decorating long before it was trendy, with all its repurposing and second-hand charm.

Let’s go over some budget-savvy farmhouse hacks to keep costs low while creativity stays high. And then, I’ll confess a few areas where I think an occasional splurge is justified (because sometimes that one amazing piece or upgrade can elevate everything else).

Budget-Savvy Farmhouse Hacks

Before you hit the stores, try shopping your own home first—it’s surprising what treasures might be tucked away!

Dig around closets, peek in the garage, or explore the attic. When you do shop outside, thrift stores, flea markets, and yard sales are farmhouse goldmines—embrace the thrill of the hunt!

Even the ugliest lamp can transform beautifully with spray paint and a burlap shade, and mismatched teacups become sweet candleholders or succulent planters. Trust me, bragging about your $5 vintage mirror never gets old!

Don’t overlook nature’s freebies, either. Branches, wildflowers, seashells, or pretty rocks you’ve collected add instant charm.

I love arranging stones in a dish—instant farmhouse-meets-zen decor! Got greenery outside? A few clipped branches in a glass jar make gorgeous, budget-friendly decor.

DIY textiles can save serious cash and look great. No sewing skills? No worries! Fabric glue or iron-on hem tape turns sheets into curtains, or wrap foam cushions in fabric like a present, securing with safety pins. Painter’s drop cloths are my secret farmhouse hack—they mimic expensive linen after washing, perfect for slipcovers or pillows.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of paint! A fresh coat (white, soft gray, or pastels) revitalizes furniture, picture frames, and lamps instantly. Spray paint quickly unifies mismatched thrift finds—I keep a tarp handy for spontaneous backyard paint sessions!

Sticking to these budget tips, you’ll find that your summer refresh doesn’t cost much at all. In fact, you might spend more on lemonade and celebratory ice cream for your helpers than on decor items! And by doing it yourself or sourcing secondhand, your home will have a uniqueness to it that money just can’t buy.

When to Splurge: Pieces Worth the Investment

While I’m definitely a proud penny-pincher, I believe a thoughtful splurge here and there can beautifully elevate your farmhouse decor.

For instance, investing in quality outdoor seating—like a cozy porch swing or sturdy Adirondack chairs—can transform your summer experience, making morning coffees and evening chats dreamy for years.

Well-made outdoor furniture only gains charm as it ages.

Another area worth spending a bit more is your bedding or mattress. Sure, it isn’t the flashiest decor, but there’s nothing like sliding into soft, breathable linen sheets or under a lightweight duvet after a warm summer day.

If an iron bed frame or fluffy mattress topper makes your heart happy (and helps you sleep better), consider it an investment in your daily joy.

Lastly, choosing one standout decor item you’ve always admired—like a vintage farmhouse dining table, gorgeous barn door, or even a stylish, durable outdoor umbrella—can truly define your space.

Maybe your splurge is practical, like a quality grill for memorable summer meals. Whatever it is, pick something you’ll genuinely cherish. My rule of thumb: if you’re still dreaming about it months later, it’s probably worth it!

The key with splurges is to choose what matters most to you and what you’ll use or enjoy often. And remember, a splurge doesn’t have to break the bank. It just means spending a bit more on something of quality or uniqueness.

My personal rule: if I’m still dreaming about it weeks or months later, and it’s within my means, I’ll consider going for it.

By balancing smart budgeting with a little bit of indulgence, you get the best of both worlds — a home that’s styled and a wallet that isn’t empty. And the overall effect is a space that feels high-end and personal, all at once.

Bringing It All Together in Farmhouse Bliss

Can you picture it now? Whether you live in a tiny city apartment or a sprawling suburban ranch, your home radiates cozy, breezy summer farmhouse charm.

Your living room invites relaxed afternoons with sweet tea, your kitchen inspires impromptu baking or lemonade-making, your bedroom whispers comfort, and even your bathroom sparkles with seasonal freshness.

Step outside, and there’s your personal paradise—a porch ready for sunset watching, a yard perfect for barbecues and star-gazing, or a dreamy balcony escape above the city bustle.

We created this together by blending trends with timeless touches, getting crafty, and choosing creativity over big spending.

Remember when you thought, “Jaymie, can I really pull off farmhouse style?”

Look at you now with this information—I know you can do it!

Farmhouse decorating isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating welcoming spaces that feel authentically yours.

Thanks for hanging out with me, and enjoy your decorating! Here’s to a summer filled with sunshine, laughter, and the coziest farmhouse vibes.

Make your home summer-ready and soul-happy — and that, my friend, is what I call farmhouse bliss.

Enjoy every moment of it!