I'm in the middle of trying to give my backyard a makeover, and as a novice gardener, I've been struggling to nail down the vision. That is, until my recent trip to Italy, and I realized that is exactly the vibe: a vintage, European summer.
So it is just my luck that one of the biggest outdoor decorating trends for summer 2025 (and beyond) is wrought iron furniture. Timeless, classic, and totally chic, this vintage-style metal work furniture has made it global and is the perfect way to create an old-world, charming look in your backyard.
I've spent a little time finding a select few of my favorite pieces on the market to help you style an outdoor space that feels like a scene straight from a postcard.
Up there with some of the best outdoor furniture, wrought iron brings a uniquely architectural elegance – think curves, scrolls, and waves – to your outdoor living room or outdoor dining room spaces in a way that rattan or teak can’t quite achieve.
And I'm not alone in this obsession. Designers are also on board, just take a peek at Lulu and Georgia's x Sarah Sherman Samuel collaboration for plenty of shapely metal furniture finds in striking black iron that feels super chic next to her signature stripes and playful prints. Alternatively, for a softer look, Jake Arnold's outdoor collection at Crate & Barrel offers a range of romantic hairpin steel furniture finished in soft sage green.
Of course, you can also shop totally vintage. I picked up a gorgeous 6-piece white wrought iron dining set for just shy of $250 at an antique fair that has well and truly transformed my patio (and my backyard BBQs), you've just got to pray to the thrifting gods for a bargain. And don’t shy away from a little rust or wear – patina adds authenticity and a sense of story.
Shop wrought iron patio furniture
Unlike some trends that fade after a few seasons, wrought iron garden furniture holds its own, both in durability and design. Whether it’s an ornate bistro table or a scrolled bench tucked under an arbor, these pieces feel storied, romantic, and refreshingly untrendy. Here are a few of my favorites.
Australian beach and lifestyle brand Business & Pleasure Co. has nailed this trend. I love their chic scalloped garden pieces, including this white side table, which feels soft and feminine thanks to its off-white high-grade coating.
A Lulu and Georgia classic, the Peggy sofa, designed by Sarah Sherman Samuel, has been around for a few summers now and is high up on my wish list thanks to its shaped base and boxy, super thick cushions.
Made with galvanized steel and acacia wood, this slate grey garden bench is going to become your favorite spot in the garden. I can see it now, surrounded by trailing greenery with a little side table for your book and vino. Perfect.
There are so many styles of wrought iron, but a basket weave frame is one of the coolest in my opinion. Finished in an antique brushed pewter and topped with little finials and a cabana-stripe bench cushion, this is a real statement maker.
For something truly special, look to Olive Ateliers. Their range of hand-forged, intricate garden furniture embodies traditional French character and charm. I love all the curves and wiggles on this beautifully patinated chair.
Similar to my vintage find, this 5-piece dining table and chairs set is finished in an antique white iron for a Victorian-style look. It is also weather-resistant, but the chairs are stackable should you wish to store it for winter.
There's something so lovely about hosting at home in summer, and to do so in style with pieces full of history and character is the cherry on top. If you're looking to create a stylish slice of Europe at home, perhaps this is the trend for you.
And if you're looking for garden decorating ideas that feel a little closer to home, check out this Hamptons-esque, Nancy Meyers style patio set.
