{Martha Stewart Living, August 2010}

For many of us summer is nearly out, but it's not quite gone yet. Nope and Martha's August issue is perfect for helping us make the most of these last few weeks of heat. It's all about simplifying summer; from simple 'colour soaked' crafts projects to tips and ideas for laid-back summer entertaining, the team have pulled together an issue that really does ode to kicking back, relaxing and soaking up the steamy summer months. Throughout the issue there's plenty of easy-to-replicate ideas for adding those little details that will make your home - and your al fresco entertaining - stand out from the crowd. There's a cocktail stirrer in every shade (2) and tips for sprucing up refreshing drinks. Next up there's fun ideas for making beach trips easier (3) and a feature (4, 6) called 'Take A Dip', which details different ways to dip-dye products around the home. If you are entertaining before the summer is out, then the editorial, 'A Toast to Summer' (5) is a must read - the best drinks, dishes and party suggestions you can find. Finally, the soft blue, white, orange and green hues displayed in the 'Bottles & Jars' feature (7) have reminded me how much a simple vignette can transform a centerpiece, tablescape or sideboard. So, before the fall breeze comes back, call up your best buddies, crack open the champers and make the most of summer, friends!

Magazine itself Martha Stewart Living. Photography and styling for this review by Bright.Bazaar.