This article was first published in May 2022. Because the original roundup was so well-loved, we’ve replaced a few sold-out items and added a few new picks into the mix for summer 2023.
Here at StyleBlueprint, we love to keep an eye trained on social media recommendations and product reviews, and our ears are open for the fun new finds everyone is talking about. Below are 18 outdoor accessories we can’t wait to get our hands on, all available online. They are chic, functional, easily portable, and guaranteed to make your outside gatherings more memorable!
SEATING
Folding bench chair
This extra-large folding seat is not only stylish but also versatile. It’s roomy enough for one person to spread out or for two to share comfortably, with a sturdy cupholder below each armrest. Imagine three or four of these arranged around a fire pit or folding table! Choose from black or royal blue here for $105.99.
Water-resistant picnic blanket
A good picnic blanket is essential for a season of outdoor adventures. Society6 offers picnic blankets in countless designs — from the summery fruit pattern here to more neutral, minimalist options. The fabric is water-resistant on both sides, and convenient carrying straps allow you to roll and tote your blanket around with ease. Snag this design on sale here for $79.20 (regular price $99).
Fringe sling chair
Vintage-inspired stripes and fringe that conjure images of the French Riviera are definitely having a moment right now. This portable sling chair design, complete with a comfy headrest, allows you to infuse a hint of “chic” into even the most rustic of outdoor settings. Find the chair on sale here for $199 (regular price $249).
Rattan folding chair
Rattan wicker is an ultra-versatile material that lends itself beautifully to laid-back, bohemian decor schemes. This clever folding chair collapses, so it’s easy to transport and store — and everyone will want to know where you got it. You can let them know it’s available here, currently on sale for $179 (regular price $219).
Outdoor cushion
Whether it be a park picnic, a weekend-long camping adventure, or an afternoon of sunbathing with friends, we love arranging a comfy palette of outdoor cushions. They’re widely available in various shapes and sizes, but we enjoy the ease of using one large cushion with handles — large enough for one person to lounge or two to sit comfortably. Get this striped cushion here for $129.99.
AMBIANCE
Mini fire bowl
It’s hot out, but that’s no reason to abandon the pursuit of the perfect vibe. These mini fire pits from Terra Flame provide the cozy effect of a fire — without the smoke, smell, and oppressive heat. Place one on your outdoor dining table to set the mood, or arrange several for a low-maintenance s’mores party. Each fire bowl is $49.99, available here.
Indoor/outdoor pendant light
We live for outdoor summer gatherings that last well past sunset — but lighting can be challenging. These pendant lights from Fatboy® are powered by rechargeable batteries and feature a silicone loop so you can hang them anywhere. Plus, they’re dimmable so that you can control the setting. They’re available in four different colors for $139 apiece here.
Hanging citronella coil
Mosquitoes are, perhaps, the ultimate buzzkill. Options for insect repellents are abundant — from sprays and lotions to candles and zappers — but we love this creative citronella coil design. Hang one or more around your gathering space, and enjoy 150 hours of slow-burning mosquito-repelling action. Get yours here for $40 each.
Portable clip speaker
Music is a must! This mini JBL speaker is plenty powerful for intimate gatherings, and its clip is convenient for attaching it to backpacks, branches, and beyond. These speakers come in a wide variety of colors, and you can even create a custom combination (but we’re partial to the gold). JBL Clip 3 speakers are available here for $49.95.
DINING + DRINKING
Bottle chiller + leak-proof pitcher
You’ve heard of Brümate’s wildly popular can coolers, but did you know they also offer a brilliant two-in-one product designed for larger format beverages? The chiller can maintain the cold temperature of bottles and beverages for up to 48 hours! The pitcher function even comes with a strainer if you’re mixing up cocktails. These run $69.99 each, available in 10 colors here.
Bucket cooler backpack
The Corkcicle brand is well known for its high-quality construction and ability to keep the cold stuff cold. This bucket cooler backpack is both pragmatic (hands-free!) and almost too cute to be true. The neoprene fabric is sporty and durable, while the bright color options make for a fun summer accessory. (But it’s also available in black if that’s more your speed.) Order yours for $159.95 here.
Insulated ice cream storage tub
With this double-walled stainless steel ice cream storage tub by Tovolo, you can keep your frozen treat of choice perfectly chilled for up to four hours — perfect for sporting events, park hangs, and afternoons on the lake! You can order one here for $39.95.
Folding bar cart
Instantly elevate any outdoor occasion with a rolling utility cart. This versatile design can be used as a bar cart, for storing condiments, as a grillside workstation, and beyond. It folds down to a compact size that can easily be stored in the backseat or trunk of your car. It’s available here for $135.99.
Patterned tin plates
We all love our go-to melamine dinnerware and drinkware for outdoor entertaining, but there’s something unexpected and fun about tin. This line of colorful tin plates is modeled after patterns used by European nobility, and today, these designs lend a splash of color and special occasion flair to even the most casual of backyard BBQs. Best of all, they’re unbreakable. These tin plates are $12 each — shop from a variety of patterns here.
Mesh food cover
Food covers have come a long way from the practical but distinctly unattractive designs used by our mothers in decades past. Retailers like Crate & Barrel offer options that keep your spread free of bugs and other debris — and they’re easy on the eyes, too! This rectangular option is currently on sale for $8.76 here (regular price $10.95).
Tabletop BBQ
This portable BBQ from BergHOFF has been on our wishlist for a while. The minimalist design is available in sleek black or white and features a cork lid that doubles as a base when the BBQ is in use. A durable polypropylene strap completes the package for convenient carrying. This makes a fabulous Father’s Day gift, by the way! They’re available here for $279.95.
Retro drink cooler
Another unexpected way to stow your cold beverages is this chic, retro-inspired cooler made with powder-coated steel. Beyond this pretty turquoise shade, you can also find these in pink, white, and black for $90 each. Get yours here.
Outdoor wine table
Never worry about uneven terrain ruining your refreshments again! This collapsible wine table features a fiberglass spike that allows you to literally “plant” your table into the ground. How clever is that? Once you’ve found your perfect spot, you can slide a wine bottle and two glasses into their designated holders and use the remaining table space for a snack — everything in its place. Buy one here for $60.
Shop all 18 items below!
**********
To stay in the know on the best of the South, follow us on Instagram.
