The One Element That Instantly Transforms My Home into a Coastal Retreat

There’s something magical about walking into a space that instantly feels like summer—bright, airy, and kissed by the sea. For me, creating that mood in my home comes down to one simple but transformative choice: natural textures. Whether it’s rattan, breezy linen, or classic cotton stripes, bringing in these organic materials has a way of making every room feel softer, lighter, and unmistakably coastal.

Over the years, I’ve found that adding even one thoughtfully selected piece—be it a striped pillow or a shell-inspired pendant light—can infuse a space with that dreamy, beach-cottage spirit I love. It’s not about filling your home with nautical novelties or shells on every shelf. It’s about curating pieces that feel calm, timeless, and beautifully worn in—like they’ve been part of your story for years.

Right now, with Serena & Lily offering 25% off everything in their Memorial Day Sale, I thought I’d share the decor pieces that, in my experience, deliver the most instant coastal charm. These are the little luxuries and practical touches that help me turn my space into a peaceful seaside haven—and they just might do the same for you.


🐚 My Go-To Picks for That Instant Coastal Feel

Pacifica Storage Trunk
This is one of those incredibly functional pieces that also happens to be beautiful. Whether it sits at the foot of your bed, beneath a sunny window, or tucked into the living room, it adds texture and warmth to the space. Made from all-weather wicker, it’s even outdoor-friendly. Bonus: the hidden storage is a lifesaver for keeping things tidy without sacrificing style.

Avondale Martini Table
Petite but full of personality, this little table is perfect beside your favorite reading chair. It’s just big enough to hold a coffee mug, a candle, or a glass of rosé—everything you need for a relaxing moment. Its sleek design makes it a perfect fit for smaller spaces while still offering a pop of chic.

Rattan Shell Pendant
If there’s one piece that screams “coastal sophistication,” it’s this pendant. The shape is playful and reminiscent of the sea, while the rattan adds a natural touch that warms up any room. I love the idea of hanging it in a breakfast nook or entryway to create an instant focal point that’s both breezy and elegant.

Milos Striped Pillow Cover (Blue + Ivory)
Blue and white stripes are my forever favorite. They evoke memories of Nantucket strolls, sailboats on the horizon, and crisp seaside mornings. This pillow cover is a go-to for me year-round because it brings balance and structure to more casual settings—and it plays beautifully with florals, neutrals, and natural fibers alike.

Copa Rattan Chair
This chair is one of those forever pieces. Lightweight yet substantial, with that beautiful open-weave texture, it fits seamlessly into living rooms, bedrooms, or sunrooms. It’s the kind of chair that tells its own story and invites you to linger with a cup of tea and a view of the sea—or at least the backyard.

Kimbe Napkin in Pale Blue Coral Print
I’m a big believer in small details that elevate everyday rituals. These napkins add just the right splash of coastal whimsy without being over-the-top. I love using them for summer lunches or even just midweek dinners—they make everything feel a little more special.

Evora Dinnerware Coffee Mugs
There’s nothing better than starting the morning with a mug that makes you smile. These are beautifully shaped, with soft hues that feel straight out of a beachside café. Even a simple cup of coffee feels like a moment of self-care when it’s in the right mug.

Lily of the Valley Pillow Cover
For those moments when I want to bring a touch of floral softness into a room without going full garden party, this is my pick. The pattern is gentle, delicate, and still fits beautifully within the coastal palette I love. Layer it with striped or neutral pillows for an effortless mix.


Why These Pieces Work

What ties all these pieces together is more than just a shared palette or material—it’s the feeling they evoke. They’re rooted in simplicity and craftsmanship, bringing warmth and life into a room without demanding attention. With their soft tones, airy silhouettes, and natural finishes, they reflect the spirit of the coast—easy, intentional, and always welcoming.

And the best part? You don’t need to completely overhaul your home to get that beachy feeling. Just one piece—a wicker trunk, a striped pillow, or a shell-shaped pendant—can make a space feel refreshed, grounded, and inspired by the sea.


A Little Reminder

My approach to home decor has always been about more than aesthetics. I want every piece in my home to carry meaning, to remind me of the places I love—sun-warmed docks, slow walks on the shore, laughter over alfresco dinners. Coastal style, at its heart, is about living with intention and beauty. It’s not about perfection—it’s about peace.

So if you’re dreaming of a home that feels like a breath of salty air, maybe start with just one thing. One texture, one tone, one memory captured in a chair or pillow or pendant light.

And if you’re looking for more inspiration, I share stories like this every day—little ways to bring coastal joy into your home, wardrobe, and everyday moments. If you’re new here, welcome! I’d love to have you join the Beautifully Seaside newsletter, where I share my favorite finds, styling tips, and a whole lot of sunshine.

Until next time—here’s to more calm, more charm, and always a little more coastal in your every day. 🌊

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