Give Globe String Lights a Try
If you’re looking to brighten up any outdoor living area and you’re all about a classic look, try incorporating globe-shaped outdoor string lights into your porch, deck or patio design. This idea provides plenty of light for outdoor dining or conversation areas and lends a stylish, traditional look.
Consider Teardrop Lights as a Globe Variation
If you want a string light idea with a bit more length and a more modern spin, go for these elongated, teardrop-shaped LED string lights. They’re perfect for hanging from eaves, balcony railings, outdoor plants, shrubs and more.
Adorn Fences, Railings and More With Worry-Free Solar Lights
To outline a fence, porch or deck railings, or even garden walls at night, consider solar string lights. They’re an affordable option, come in a variety of shapes and colors, and — perhaps best of all — don’t require an external power source, which saves on electricity. Plus, you don’t have to worry about turning them off and on. They’re always ready to shine when you need them.
Embrace Novelty
If you host a lot of barbecues, outdoor game nights or parties with a tiki theme, some fun novelty string lights can add a bit of whimsy to any space you choose, including an outdoor bar, grilling area or children’s play area. There are lots of unique shapes to choose from to suit any décor, theme or personality.
Remember That a Classic Never Dies
By far, Edison string lights are one of the most popular types of backyard string lights, as well as the most beloved vintage bulb shape. Because of their large size, these bulbs offer some of the brightest illumination on dark evenings. Plus, they can fit in easily with virtually any décor theme.
Give Trees a Little Love (and Light), Too
Hanging LED lights, like these pineapple-shaped novelties, from trees makes for an unexpected and impactful look, especially for trees that are large enough to place outdoor seating under. This is a great option if you’re looking to create a more intimate area for stargazing or enjoying a nice conversation.
Celebrate Right With Stars
For outdoor celebrations on the Fourth of July or Memorial Day, help set the tone and show your love of country with some patriotic-themed backyard lights, like these star-shaped ones.
Set the Stage With the Lantern Look
These fabric lantern string lights are the perfect way to add a bit of fun to an outdoor dining area. Their shape evokes a luau theme while offering soft lighting that’s sure to put anyone in the mood to party. These are also nice outdoor string lights for decks.
Use Hanging Lights for a Patio
One of the most striking ways to use outdoor string lights is to create a “ceiling” effect above a sitting area. Overhead lighting will create a special ambience that encourages conversation and provides some separation, so guests feel like they’re stepping into a living room. To learn how to hang patio string lights, see Create Backyard Ambience With String Lights.
Personalize to Achieve an Eye-Catching Display
Color-changing string lights allow you to design your own personalized lighting theme so you can achieve the perfect hue and brightness for the occasion. Many smart string lights can be controlled easily from your phone and offer mesmerizing effects such as twinkling and blinking.
Add a Bit of Magic With Fairy Lights
Fairy string lights are the perfect way to add a small accent to an outdoor area. Their mini bulbs may not light up an entire area enough to see at night, but they’re ideal for framing and coordinating with other, brighter types of lighting for a nuanced touch.