think festive florals for your garden parties

We’ve not even closed in on Christmas yet, and already Marks & Spencer are armed and ready for summer 2010!  For me, this is a much more highly anticipated time than the holidays (for a better explanation, check out my Spirit of Christmas Fair blog).  I love to think of freshly cut grass, fragrant flowers, and plenty of sunshine when the days become gloomier as winter encroaches.

From what we’ve glimpsed at the Spring/Summer launches so far, 2010 will see homes bursting with non-commital colour in accessories, bold patterns and textures, and most ubiquitously: big, beautiful, floral motifs.

the bold and the beautiful – bright cushions for your bed or sofa

I loved these cushions piled up in the corner – like a little love den just waiting to be jumped into!  A couple cushions will do the trick to inject a little punch into a dull living area, but don’t be afraid of going overboard this spring.  Clashing patterns mixed with harmonious colours keep this arrangement looking eclectic and whimsical, not haphazard or unintentional.

sumptuous textures inspire cosy tactility in your living space

And, while I would never think of placing this crimson pouffe next to this amethyst armchair, M&S prove that taking risks and having fun with your interiors can really prove fruitful in the coming season.  The blue undertones in both pieces means the two can co-exist without confusing your cones, while the chartreuse cushion lends a complementary contrast.  (Learn more about how to successfully infuse colour into your home here.)

accessories get the girlie nod

Accessories  will also see a touch of antiquated and feminine glamour.  Think shapely perfume bottles from the wartime era and Old Hollywood Art Deco vases to put those cut flowers into.

get a more subdued look with muted tones

If washes of bubbly pinks and acidic greens seem a bit too much like shock therapy for your home, M&S will also cater to you.  While big patterns are still thematic, this collection uses undertones of grey in its fabrics for a calmer, more stately look.  And I loved this gorgeous upholstered folding screen so much that I’d have stuffed it in my handbag if it were just a little smaller!

light-reflecting accessories enhance this monochromatic scheme

If you’re the type that prefers a bachelor(ette) pad to the ultrafeminine, expect to find some edgier, monochromatic pieces up for grabs as well.  The gazelle’s head is a new statement staple in the M&S collection, and this tone-on-tone patterned chair might easily be found in a sleek New York boutique hotel.  The jury’s still out on that iridescent fish scale cushion, but we’re willing to bet you’ll be able to make it work.

While these fine young things won’t hit M&S stores for a while yet, you can be sure mydeco will have a fabulous selection as soon the season approaches.  ‘Til it’s once again time to get back to the great outdoors,  M&S and mydeco will keep your indoors fashionably stocked.