Catch the summer blues

Not sure which blue is you? Need inspiration to get started on a blue decorating project? Look no further than House Beautiful Blue, the latest book on color from House Beautiful magazine. It compiles designers' favorite blue paints, blue fabrics and more, plus rooms full of ideas. And when you're ready to put that final accessory in place in your newly blue room, what better to display than a book with a gorgeous blue binding? Tres chic. Details: $19.95, amazon.com.

What could be better than dropping into a deep blue bed at the end of a long hot day? Maybe dropping into a bed that mixes its blues with greens, browns and even purples in a painterly palette that evokes a cool dark pool. Details: Marimekko Tilkkula Jewel sheet sets, $84.95 to $149, crateandbarrel.com.

Summer is an outdoor season, so why should blue be cooped up in the house? Bring a shot of brilliant color to your patio with a glazed terra cotta pot -- our favorites are brightly hued, but pared down and modern in shape.

Plant them with a mix of white flowers, throwing in some deep purple leaves for contrast, or just drop in one white hydrangea and call it a garden. Details: aqua round pots, $14 to $48, jaysonhomeandgarden.com.

This turquoise-hued elephant adds a little multi-culti flair to your cup of English breakfast -- and he'd also make a great vase for some bright orange or pink summer flowers. Part of a collection by Calypso St. Barth for Target, he's available for a limited time.

Look for alternatives at sources such as Home Goods, where collections of blue accessories have been hitting shelves. Details: $12.99, target.com for stores.