Hot Colors, Cool Looks
Tropical style decor is hot. It uses the vivid colors of tropical reef fish and jungle macaws, of stunning tropical flowers and Caribbean cottages.
When I think of tropical, I think of Caribbean, but it also includes Polynesian and Southeast Asian/Indonesian, Central and South American.
You may find the decor includes everything from pink flamingos (ZOIKS!) and Oaxacan wood carvings to Talavera pottery and ceramics painted with marine life, from palm tree statuettes to sea glass, and from ships wheels to hanging fishing floats.
The tropical cottage can be a little kitschy, yes. But it is also common and popular in areas by the sea, especially south Florida, and in the homes of those who dream of tropical escapes.
Let's take a look at some of these bright beautiful looks and products!
Who's Got the Look?
Here are some examples of the Caribbean, or tropical, exterior look. The colors seen on these island homes are found throughout the interior decor of homes in this category, as well.
If you want a tropical look for your exterior, this is a great place to look for inspiration.
Brilliantly painted home in Smith Point, Grand Bahama
Frenchmens Key Shop, Tortola BVI
Cottage on Bonaire
House at Smith Point, Grand Bahama
Grand Cayman apartment buildings
The Tropical Attitude
You may experience a lot of Jimmy Buffet and reggae music in the tropical cottage! Clocks don't seem to mean much here. Unless you're checking if it's time for another cocktail!
Fun Tropical Coffee Mugs
from Tropiques
These colorful stylish mugs feature original art photography and graphic design by Tammy Winand, the creator of Tropiques (a Zazzle gallery), who has lived all around Florida and loves tropical style!
Tropical Kitchenware
Tropical Fridge Magnets
The Tropical Bathroom
Tropical Porch Areas
Coral Reef Paper Lanterns, 2pk
Amazon Price: $2.99 (as of 07/19/2008)
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Hibiscus Blue Lanterns
Amazon Price: (as of 07/19/2008)
158 Piece LUAU Tropical PARTY Decorations/DECOR BALLOONS/Hibiscus Straws/Tablecloths/Appetizer Food Picks/BANNER/Flowers/Chinese PAPER LANTERNS
Amazon Price: $17.95 (as of 07/19/2008)
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
4 O' Clock Somewhere Paper Lanterns (2 count)
Amazon Price: $2.99 (as of 07/19/2008)
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Tropical Garden Paper Lantern
Amazon Price: $5.95 (as of 07/19/2008)
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Tropical Accessories
Have a look at some fun funky accessories you can get.
Bring the Tropics into Your Boudoir
get things heated up!
The Tropical Look of Talavera
Keep your eyes peeled for my lens dedicated to the beauty of Talavera Pottery!
Artisan Claro Style Plate
Amazon Price: $44.00 (as of 07/19/2008)
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Flowerpot, 'Allende'
Amazon Price: (as of 07/19/2008)
Talavera ceramic bowl, 'Puebla'
Amazon Price: (as of 07/19/2008)
Talavera Light Switch Plate Cover - 2 Flip Switch, Assorted Colors
Amazon Price: (as of 07/19/2008)
Talavera Bowl Hand Painted, 7 1/2" Diameter
Amazon Price: $9.49 (as of 07/19/2008)
Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Fishing Floats and Ship's Wheels...
The floats featured here are just a few examples.
Last But NOT Least...The Pink Flamingo
A classic if kitschy lawn ornament created in the late 1950s that never seems to go out of "style".
Not just a lawn ornament anymore, my friends!There is a stunning array of pink flamingo decor out there, folks. Just check out these examples for starters!
For More Flamingo Madness...
If you are truly a fan of the pink flamingo (as I have recently discovered that I am), have a look at the fun, and funny, Pink Flamingo Theme Party page!-
Pink Flamingo Theme Party
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I have lived part of the year in Florida almost every year since 1992. I love tropical design, decor, clothing and themes. Down here we can enjoy outdoor living almost year round. For the rest of you, now that summer is here, it's the perfect time t...
What Do You Think?
Is tropical style something you would, or DO, have in your home? Have your say here! Thanks for signing my guestbook.
