As spring's blooms fade and the summer of 2026 approaches, we witness the latest trends shaping stylish outdoor spaces. Amid these trends, classic colors and patterns are making a comeback, with Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes exemplifying this timeless aesthetic.
Mendes recently showcased their choice of outdoor furniture where they unwind. Based on what we see, they've opted for the enduring charm of stripes.
Associated with nautical design, stripes evoke the New England coastal vibe, adaptable enough for any home, no matter where it's located.
Striped furniture, especially in hues like the gray featured in their backyard, remains a popular choice for outdoor spaces. Designers highlight that these settings are ideal for such patterns. To replicate their look, consider this striped gray pillow from Wayfair, along with other beautiful selections for summer.
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Discover the Striped Outdoor Furniture Collection
Gray Cabana Stripe
Elevate your existing chair with these stylish cushions. Crafted from 100% polyester, they're breathable, UV-resistant, and fade-resistant, keeping your outdoor seating looking pristine.
Yarn Dyed
This plush, yarn-dyed pillow is an instant upgrade inspired by Mendes. Its vibrant colors are woven to ensure they won't fade, even in outdoor settings.
Neutral Base
Before adding striped cushions, start with this gray outdoor sofa. It's the perfect foundation for layering pillows inspired by Mendes's garden.
Ruffled
Deckchair stripes evoke summer vibes and seaside fun. This pillow is a must-have for your outdoor space.
Gray Stripe
Enhance your outdoor sofa with this inviting gray and white striped pillow. Its farmhouse style adds warmth and visual interest.
Plush Finishing
This ottoman, another option to pillows, is versatile and stylish in its striped design. It can serve as a footrest or extra seating, season after season.
Designer Jodi Peterman highlights, 'Patterned furniture adds interest and depth to outdoor spaces. With natural elements surrounding you, introducing patterns via cushions and rugs can break the monotony of plain designs.'
While looks are essential, functionality is equally important, she notes. 'In our recent project in Downtown Des Moines, we used geometric designs and colors to create focal points that invite exploration. A space should be visually appealing while serving its purpose.'
Using various patterns allows for creative expression in ways simple designs cannot match.
In Gosling and Mendes's outdoor area, they opted for a timeless gray-blue palette, enhancing the nautical theme. As Peterman reassures, any patterned furniture can work well, whether you choose neutrals or vibrant colors that reflect the lively July sun.
'A bold patterned outdoor sofa sets a lively tone, while subtle patterns can bring calm and elegance,' she explains. 'Choosing designs that harmonize with nature creates a welcoming environment for guests.'
As we embrace the deeper summer of 2026, stripes take center stage, but other patterns can also make a strong statement in outdoor settings.
'Your pattern choices reflect your personal style, transforming an ordinary outdoor area into an extension of your home. Whether you lean toward classic stripes, playful polka dots, or sophisticated damask, there's a design for every taste,' Peterman advises.
'Patterned furniture allows you to express your unique personality and craft an outdoor retreat that feels authentically yours. Explore these ideas and enjoy the process.'
As you design your patio or terrace for the 2026 season, remember that being trendy doesn't always mean reinventing everything; sometimes, it just means embracing the classics.
