Like any self-proclaimed stylish person, I'm currently hooked on Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. This FX series delves into Truman Capote's fascinating friendship and eventual feud with a clique of New York City socialites. Amidst the gripping plot lines and even more enticing fashion, I can't help but admire the timeless grace of C.Z Guest. Renowned for her wealth, yes, but also her vibrant green thumb, she made gardening exceptionally chic. I suppose I feel nostalgic for a time when people flew in suits over sweatpants — a longing for an era where even mundane activities were elevated and styled. Gardening, by nature, is already such a moment, so why not make it look like one?
To my delight, it seems that modern garden ideas are on the rise. As noted by interior designer Nina Lichtenstein, the latest gardening tools reflect 'a renewed appreciation for outdoor living and a desire to infuse everyday tasks with beauty and elegance.' Think classic, versatile hues such as navy blue, hunter green, and charcoal gray, paired with timeless prints like stripes. According to the designer, this new outdoor look is all about adding ‘a touch of whimsy and charm that evokes the spirit of traditional garden style.'
One thing about me: if I'm doing anything, absolutely anything, you can bet I'll make it fashion. Whether I have an audience of twelve or I'm flying solo, gardening is no exception. After some digging (pun intended), I was astounded by the sheer chicness of each of some of these tools. You might as well carry one of these watering cans as a campy purse, because I guarantee you've never seen gardening tools quite like this before.
Explore these modern garden ideas for further inspiration.
15 Best Gardening Tools
Livingetc knows design. We spend hours testing and comparing the latest products, bringing only our edit of the very best to you. Find out more about how we review.
Price: $30.99
This set of gardening essentials includes one pruner, a cultivator, and a towel — perfect for pruning and planting in style. I adore its green floral pattern, crafted from aluminum to resist rust over time. It’s compact and easy to store, although it looks so good you might be tempted to leave it out on display.
Price: $14.99
Sleek and graceful watering cans like these usually come with a hefty price tag, so stumbling upon this IKEA find was a delightful surprise. With a rating of 4.8/5 from 248 reviews, its quality speaks for itself. If you’re after a fashion-forward watering can that won’t break the bank, look no further.
Price: $25
It might seem odd to call scissors stylish, but Rejuvenation has achieved just that with these beauties. Crafted from a mix of stainless steel and walnut wood, complete with a comfortable ambidextrous grip, these garden scissors are all you’ll ever need (or want).
Price: $89
These women’s gardening gloves are so good, they might as well come with an evening dress. Made from goatskin, they feel soft and supple while also being thorn-resistant and highly durable – perfect for tackling those roses, or anything else your flower bed throws your way.
Price: $199
Aptly named the ‘Black Swan,’ this hose is as elegant as ever with its monochromatic look and sleek nozzle. Dare I say that gardening has never looked more glamorous.
Price: $62
Pick the fruits of your labor with the timeless tradition of a garden basket – old-school and completely charming. Designed to withstand the elements, you can simply hose it down before bringing it inside. There's even an option to personalize its side with your family name, turning a gardening basket into an extra-special keepsake.
Price: $69
Absolutely smitten with this golden garden spade. With sleek lines, an onyx black handle, and Garden Glory’s gorgeous cursive logo, it’s like jewelry for your garden.
Price: $229.95
Whether you’re a novice gardener or looking to streamline your tool collection, you can’t go wrong with this Sophie Conran-designed garden kit. Featuring a classic striped tool bag along with essential tools, it has everything you need in one spot.
Price: $109
There’s something eternally chic about hunter green paired with gold, and in this sleek watering can design, the combo has never looked better. Designed by Londoner John Haws in 1886, there’s a good reason why these are still a favorite among gardeners in-the-know.
Price: $369.95
The best gardening tools aren’t just functional; they should also be comfortable to hold for extended periods. This garden tool set, including various tools designed with the female hand in mind, offers the perfect grip for any task.
Price: $69
A bonafide art piece, tablescape decor, and all-around eye candy, to label this as just a watering can feels like a disservice. Made in Sweden and accented with brass, leave this out on balconies and in gardens alike – this pot was meant to be seen.
Price: $69
Metallic accents have been cropping up everywhere from catwalks to home decor. For a hint of fashion-forward drama, why not take the trend outside?
Price: $50
With heavyweight fabric and a waist-tie silhouette, this practical gardening apron provides ample space to store your essentials. With room for your phone or keys, you’re guaranteed to grace your garden in style.
Price: $45
Revive your plants with this ultra-fine mister, perfect for watering succulents or cacti. Its antique-inspired design adds a touch of luxury, making it an elegant addition to any garden shed when not in use.
Price: $149
From weeding to raking, this wheeled garden cart does it all. Chic, compact, and collapsible, it’s garden cart perfection. Plus, its low center of gravity makes even the heaviest loads feel effortlessly light.
How should I store my gardening tools?
As spring looms, tidy up your shed by 'decluttering and organizing your space to create a clean and inviting backdrop for your gardening essentials,' advises Nina. 'Install shelving, hooks, and storage bins to keep tools and supplies neatly organized and easily accessible,' she adds.
Now, onto the fun part: Give your shed some personality with framed botanical prints, vintage signs, and lush potted plants, suggests the designer. For the ambitious, 'Consider painting the walls or adding wallpaper in a chic floral or geometric pattern to create visual interest and make your gardening shed a stylish extension of your home.'
Suffice it to say that spring has never looked more stylish! And speaking of the great outdoors, check out our outdoor furniture picks for a resort-like backyard.
-
I'm an Interior Stylist Who Knows How to Make Your Christmas Lights Work a Million Times HarderThere’s no one better than Livingetc’s long time contributor, the stylist Hannah Franklin, to advise on how best to use Christmas lights to make spaces feel like magic
-
"I'm a Professional Christmas Tree Designer — These Are My 7 Secrets for a Better-Dressed Tree This Year"When it comes to the designing the best-looking Christmas tree, you can take it from designer David Lawson on how to make an impression
