I Saw Rattan Lights at All the Hottest Beach Clubs While on Holiday — Here's How I'm Recreating the Look in My Garden

Rattan shades seem to be the most significant trend in outdoor lighting this summer, so here's how to bring the look to your back garden

beach bar with shade at OLEA all suite hotel
(Image credit: OLEA All Suites)

Much to the shock and dismay of many a millennial, there's no denying that this summer, boho is back, in a big way. And these rattan outdoor lights might just be my favorite interpretation of the trend.

Just take a look at any popular beach club on the Euro Summer hit list, and you'll be sure to find at least one effortlessly chic rattan light fitting blowing in the wind. And though they can be seen in a wide variety of shapes and finishes, one thing is for sure: this is an outdoor lighting trend with international appeal.

In Greece, I spotted structured rattan shades hanging over every dining table; the material mirrored by the woven placemats sat beneath them. While on the coast of Spain, they took on more irregular, natural forms, including many modeled after the jellyfish found en masse in water. Though I must admit, they look far more appealing with tentacles made of wicker than they do when spotted lurking in the waves.

These lights offer a super-relaxed, laid-back elegance that oozes luxury, without ever looking like you've tried too hard — exactly the vibe I'm hoping to create in my garden. So you best believe I've spent every hour since touching back down in the UK tracking down all the best rattan outdoor lights available, and I'm letting you in on my top finds.


If you're as obsessed as I am with making your outdoor area resemble one of the uber-cool fashion beach clubs you've been stalking on Instagram, a rattan shade is a great place to start.

But that by no means has to be where it ends; we've found plenty of beach club-style outdoor furniture to add to your setup. Who needs Ibiza when you've got a beach club in your back garden?

Maya Glantz
Design Writer

Maya Glantz is a Design Writer at Livingetc, covering all things bathrooms and kitchens. Her background in Art History informed her love of the aesthetic world, and she believes in the importance of finding beauty in the everyday. She recently graduated from City University with a Masters Degree in Magazine Journalism, during which she gained experience writing for various publications, including the Evening Standard. A lover of mid-century style, she can be found endlessly adding to her dream home Pinterest board.