17 ways to style your outdoor patio space with black and white stripes

When it comes to creating a stylish and sophisticated outdoor space, black and white stripes are a design element that never goes out of fashion. They're bold yet balanced, classic yet current—and when used correctly, they can instantly elevate your patio, balcony, or backyard lounge area into a space that feels resort-worthy. In this post, we’ll explore the history of black and white stripes in design, why this duo works so well outdoors, and exactly how to incorporate this look into your own home.

The History and Symbolism of Black and White Stripes

Black and white stripes have long held a place in the world of high style. From French fashion to luxury cabanas on the Italian Riviera, this color combination has always symbolized chic sophistication. In the mid-20th century, the look took off in outdoor design, thanks in part to Hollywood’s golden age and the rise of glamorous Palm Springs resorts, where striped umbrellas, lounges, and awnings were status symbols of stylish leisure.

Even further back, black and white stripes were used in architecture and fashion to signal contrast, order, and rhythm. The geometric clarity they provide continues to feel elegant and modern today.

Why Black and White Stripes Work So Well Outdoors

• Timeless Appeal: Much like the little black dress, black and white stripes are enduring and universally flattering. They never feel dated and blend effortlessly with other design styles, from coastal to contemporary.

• High Contrast, High Impact: The visual contrast is bold and eye-catching. It immediately defines a space and gives it structure without overwhelming it.

• Pairs With Everything: Whether your space features natural woods, bold greenery, or pops of bright color, black and white stripes provide a grounding element that complements any palette.

• Resort-Like Vibes: There’s something innately luxurious about black and white striped cabana curtains, sun umbrellas, or pillows. It evokes poolside chic and encourages relaxation.

Where and How to Use Black and White Stripes Outdoors

1. Cushions and Pillows
Start small by swapping out old seat cushions or throw pillows with striped versions. Choose waterproof or outdoor-rated fabric to ensure longevity. A few striped pillows mixed with solid ones can add instant sophistication to any seating area.

2. Rugs and Mats
A black and white striped outdoor rug can define a seating or dining area and serve as a stunning base layer. It works particularly well on wood decks or neutral stone.

3. Umbrellas and Awnings
Nothing says “European summer” like a black and white striped umbrella. Choose one with a scalloped edge and fringe for extra charm. Striped awnings, meanwhile, can give your patio or terrace a classic bistro or coastal look.

4. Curtains and Drapery
For larger spaces or pergolas, consider hanging black and white striped outdoor curtains. They add elegance, shade, and a touch of drama—while also softening the architecture.

5. Planters and Accessories
Even if you don’t want to commit to textiles, you can bring in this pattern through painted planters, striped lanterns, or accent tables. The key is consistency—balance the pattern with solid blacks, whites, or even warm neutrals like rattan and teak.

When I heard OKL came out with an outdoor line with black and white striped items, I just knew I was going to have to write a post about it. Look at these fabulous pieces. 

Styling Tips for a Cohesive Look

• Add Warmth with Natural Textures: Offset the sharpness of stripes with soft textures—think jute rugs, teak furniture, or linen napkins.

• Stick to a Simple Palette: Keep most of your palette to three core tones: black, white, and a warm or natural accent (wood, terracotta, or greenery).

• Break Up the Pattern: Don’t go overboard with stripes everywhere. Mix in solids and soft prints to keep the look curated and balanced.

• Layer with Greenery: Black and white stripes pop beautifully against plants. Think boxwoods, olive trees, or potted palms for a refined yet lush atmosphere.

Just incase you aren't convinced. . .here is some more black and white striped outdoor inspiration for you. . .

17 ways to style your outdoor patio space with black and white stripes

01 | Black and white striped seating

Sparkly life for me

02 | Black and white greek key motif on pool border

Take a look at my favorite outdoor pillow options: 

03 | Black and white striped cushions with a pop of green

04 | Black and white striped outdoor curtains

05 | Black and white striped outdoor sofas

06 | Black and white striped pillows

07 | Black and white striped towel cabana

I love this little idea for bringing some hotel chic to your backyard. 

08 | Black and white striped towel cabana

via Ballard Designs

09 | Black and white striped outdoor rug

via Pinterest

10 | Black and white pool chair style

11 | Black and white pool chair style

12 | Black and white pool chair style

via Pinterest

13 | Black and white striped overhang

via pinterest

14 |French country black and white striped pillows

via Pinterest

15 | Black and white striped seating

via Pinterest

16 | Black and white striped outdoor pergola curtains

home edit

17 | Black and white striped pop of pillows

Style with class

Black and white striped tablecloth | black goblets | striped rug | scalloped edge pillows | striped towels | black fringe umbrella | striped chair cushions | striped bean bag | swan pool floatie |

All images sourced here on Pinterest. Also check out my black and white stripes board.

The Ultimate guide to caring for and growing your Monstera Deliciosa

Growing plants indoors is one of my favorite hobbies.

I love bringing nature indoors and decorating my home with splashes of color. Not only does having plants inside help with the air quality, but it really brightens my day. Especially when you have indoor pots like these that are almost as gorgeous as the plants themselves.

Today, I’m showcasing an elegant plant that is quite possibly my favorite in my entire collection!

My monstera. Each plant is beautiful for its reason, but the Monstera is genuinely a sight to behold! I absolutely love the stunning leaves. You can see how small she was when I first got her here.

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My goal is to grow her big! I want her leaves to get bigger and I want her to climb to almost reach my ceiling. This post will show you everything I know about caring for your monstera and helping her grow and thrive.

p.s. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I am so grateful for your support.

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Monstera plants are a popular choice for indoor greenery, known for their stunning split leaves and relatively easy maintenance. With a few simple steps, you can ensure that your monstera thrives in your home.

Let’s dive into the different types of monstera, care tips, and how to troubleshoot common problems.

What Types of Monstera Are There?

1. Monstera Deliciosa: The most common and recognizable type. It’s famous for its large, dramatic leaves that develop fenestrations (splits and holes) as they mature.

2. Monstera Adansonii: A smaller version of the deliciosa, with more delicate, heart-shaped leaves and a lacy appearance due to many holes.

3. Monstera Obliqua: Rarer and more fragile, this type has thin, papery leaves with larger perforations.

4. Monstera Dubia: Known for its shingling habit, this plant has small, heart-shaped leaves that cling to a surface as it grows.

What’s the Best Type to Have in Your Home?

For most indoor spaces, Monstera Deliciosa is the best option. It’s relatively easy to care for and can grow into a stunning focal point. If you prefer something smaller, Monstera Adansonii is ideal, as it requires less space but still gives that iconic tropical look.

Where Should You Place Your Monstera?

Monstera plants love bright, indirect sunlight. Place yours near a window where it can receive plenty of natural light, but avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. If your home doesn’t get much natural light, they can tolerate low light but may grow slower.

Ideal locations:

• Next to a north- or east-facing window.

• Away from cold drafts or heating vents.

• In a space with enough room for the plant to grow (as monsteras can get quite large!).

How Often Should It Be Watered?

Watering a monstera is all about balance. They prefer to dry out slightly between waterings, so the key is to wait until the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. As a rule of thumb, water your monstera about once a week, but this will vary depending on the season and your home's humidity.

In winter, when the plant’s growth slows down, you may need to water less frequently. Always check the soil before watering to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Diagnosing Common Problems

1. Yellowing Leaves: This often indicates overwatering. Check the soil and let it dry out before watering again.

2. Brown Leaf Edges: Could be a sign of underwatering or low humidity. Ensure consistent watering and consider misting your plant or using a humidifier.

3. Drooping Leaves: This can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or low light. Inspect the soil and lighting conditions to diagnose the issue.

4. Lack of Fenestrations (Holes in Leaves): If your monstera’s leaves aren’t developing splits, it might not be getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot.

How to Stake and Grow Monstera Plants

Monsteras are natural climbers, and as they grow, they benefit from support. You can stake them with a moss pole or trellis to encourage upward growth and give the aerial roots something to cling to.

Steps to stake your monstera:

1. Choose a support structure like a moss pole or bamboo stake. I use this specific moss pole as my plant has grown bigger. When she was smaller, I started out with this one.

2. Insert the stake into the pot, being careful not to damage the plant’s roots.

3. Gently tie the stems to the stake using plant ties or soft twine. Don’t tie too tightly—leave room for growth.

4. As the plant grows, continue to tie new growth to the support.

Staking on a moss pole filled with Sphagnum Moss, not only helps your monstera grow tall and strong, but the leaves will grow larger and it can also make the plant look more organized and tidy, especially as it matures.

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Related Reading: 5 best plants to attract money according to Feng Shui

10 Additional Care Tips to help your monstera thrive

Monsteras are resilient and easygoing plants, but giving them a little extra care can take them from healthy to absolutely flourishing. Here are ten essential tips to ensure your monstera grows strong and vibrant.

1. Increase Humidity Around the Plant

As tropical plants, monsteras love humidity. Aim for around 60% humidity if possible. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves lightly, using a humidifier, or placing the plant near other plants to create a micro-humid environment. You can use a grow light & humidifier to help.

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2. Fertilize During the Growing Season

To keep your monstera healthy and lush, feed it a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer. I use this very specific fertilizer because it has the essential vitamins plants need.

Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil and damage the roots. Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

3. Choose a Well-Draining Potting Mix

Monsteras prefer soil that retains moisture but drains well. A good mix for monstera includes:

• Standard potting soil

• Orchid bark

• Pearlite or pumice. These additions help mimic the plant’s natural environment and prevent waterlogged soil.

4. Dust the Leaves for Better Photosynthesis

Monsteras’ large leaves can collect dust, which blocks light and hampers photosynthesis. To keep them healthy and vibrant, wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth or use these specific gloves every month. This will not only make the plant look fresher but also improve its ability to absorb light.

5. Rotate the Pot Every Few Weeks

Monsteras naturally grow toward light, so if you leave them in the same position, they may start leaning in one direction. Rotate the pot every 2-3 weeks to ensure even growth and a more balanced appearance.

6. Use a Moss Pole or Trellis for Support

As monstera plants grow, they can benefit from support. Adding a moss pole or trellis encourages vertical growth and helps support the plant’s weight. Over time, the monstera’s aerial roots will attach to the moss pole, which can keep the plant looking tidy and enhance its natural climbing habit.

7. Watch for Pests and Take Action Quickly

Common pests like spider mites, scale, and mealybugs can harm monstera plants. Inspect the leaves regularly, especially the undersides, for any signs of pests. If you notice any, treat the plant immediately with neem oil in a spray bottle. Catching pests early can prevent them from spreading to other houseplants.

8. Repot Every 1-2 Years

Monsteras are fast growers, especially when they’re young, and they can outgrow their pots quickly. Repot your monstera every 1-2 years or whenever you see roots poking out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to give the roots room to grow.

9. Prune Regularly to Encourage New Growth

Pruning isn’t just for tidying up—regularly trimming your monstera encourages new growth and helps maintain its shape. If your monstera is getting too large or has leaves that are yellowing or damaged, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut those parts back at the base of the stem. Pruning can also stimulate the plant to produce new leaves and keep it looking full and vibrant.

Pruning in spring or early summer is ideal since the plant is in its active growing season, allowing it to recover and fill out faster.

10. Propagating the Plant 

The Monstera is more than just a one-hit wonder. It can create offspring, and you can propagate your plant to grow more (or share the wealth with some friends or family – it makes a great gift!).

Monsteras are relatively easy to propagate, especially through stem cuttings.

Here’s how to propagate your monstera properly:

1. Gather Your Materials

You’ll need:

• A healthy, mature monstera plant

• Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears

• A jar or glass of water (or pot with soil if you prefer soil propagation)

• Rooting hormone (optional but can speed up the rooting process)

2. Choose the Right Stem to Cut

Look for a healthy stem with at least one leaf and one visible node. The node is the knobby, brownish part of the stem where the leaf meets the main stem, and it’s where new roots will grow. Ideally, your cutting should have both a node and an aerial root, if possible.

3. Make the Cut

Using your clean scissors or shears, make a clean cut just below the node. A healthy cutting should have:

• A node

• At least one leaf

• (Optional) An aerial root attached to the node, which can encourage faster growth.

4. Prepare the Cutting for Rooting

To encourage root growth, you can dip the node end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder or gel, though this step is optional.

5. Place the Cutting in Water or Soil

• Water Method: Fill a glass or jar with room-temperature water and place the cutting inside, ensuring the node is submerged in water, but keep the leaves above the water level to avoid rot.

• Soil Method: Use a well-draining potting mix, burying the node and any aerial roots in the soil, but leave the leaves exposed.

6. Find the Right Environment for Rooting

Monsteras root best in bright, indirect light and warm, humid conditions. Place your cutting near a window but out of direct sunlight to avoid stressing the cutting.

7. Monitor the Roots and Change Water Regularly

If you’re propagating in water, change the water every 5-7 days to keep it fresh. Within 2-4 weeks, you should see small roots beginning to grow from the node. Wait until the roots are at least 2-3 inches long before transferring to soil.

8. Pot the Cutting (For Water-Propagated Cuttings)

Once the roots have grown to a healthy length, you can transplant your cutting into a pot with well-draining soil. Place it gently in the soil, cover the roots, and water lightly.

9. Care for Your New Monstera Plant

Keep your newly propagated monstera in a warm, bright spot with indirect light, and continue watering as you would a mature monstera—letting the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out between waterings.

Tips for Success

• Be patient! It can take a few weeks for roots to develop.

• Avoid moving the cutting too much, as this can disrupt root growth.

• Keep the soil or water clean to prevent bacteria that can harm the cutting.

Propagating a monstera is a wonderful way to multiply your plant family or create thoughtful gifts for friends. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be well on your way to growing new, beautiful monsteras in no time!

Caring for a monstera can be a rewarding experience, especially as you watch it transform from a small plant into a statement piece in your home. With the right care—proper watering, a good light source, and occasional staking—your monstera will thrive and continue to impress with its unique and beautiful foliage.

p.s. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I am so grateful for your support.

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