GET THIS...
Now that summer is finally underway, we can indulge in all
things nautical: Cape Cod, clambakes, whale watching, seersucker garb, and
plenty of red, white, and blue. The classic sea-faring look (hey, if wearing
silly pants with lobsters or turtles spattered all over them is your idea of
fun, who are we to judge?) in dress and décor is a guilty pleasure we New
Englanders get to enjoy as payback for enduring those long, lingering months of
winter. With their enlarged close-up graphics, these 22-inch square pillows
($110) offer a tasteful twist on a maritime motif, adding the right dose of
summertime style whether your dwelling is seaside or land-locked. Reverse printed
on both sides, these red/white crustaceans do double duty with a simple pillow
flip should the mood strike for a mid-season décor change. And if you’re lucky
enough to score a beach house invite, a lobster-print
pillow makes an ideal gift for your host or hostess — one that’s
perfectly themed and guaranteed to score you a return visit to the shore next
season. Pick one up at Pod (313 Washington Street,
Brookline Village, 888.739.3802).
OR THAT...
Sure, Massachusetts boasts nearly 200 miles of coastline,
but perhaps your idea of summer entertaining involves a more manageable body of
water — preferably one surrounded by lounge chairs, umbrellas, and plentiful
refreshments. And when transporting said refreshments from icy fridge to
simmering poolside, a fashionable serving tray comes in mighty
handy. Perfectly sized to fit multiple glasses and/or plates without becoming
unwieldy, this laminated-wood tray ($48) from Marimekko (350 Huron Avenue,
Cambridge, 617.354.2800) is also conveniently waterproof should one of those
trips around the pool involve a slip, stumble, or belly flop. Best of all, as a
helpful reminder of its purpose, this tray is decorated with cheery
illustrations of colorful drinks — just in case a mild case of sunstroke leads
you to forget what to serve your thirsty guests.
