As summer rolls on and COVID-19 rages—along with the debate about the safest way to get our children back in the classroom—I don’t think I’m alone in saying that I could really use a drink! Everything about the future is so uncertain right now and I know that we all are trying to be creative by coming up with new ways to enjoy the season close to or at home.

Personally, I’ve discovered a love of mixology and have been whipping up my own creations after the kiddos are in bed. Trying new cocktail recipes at home is not only a fun creative outlet, but I get to enjoy the finished product too! And because I’m a believer in great design, it’s especially satisfying to pair drinks with the perfect glassware. Here, some of the drinks I’m loving this summer along with my picks for the best glasses in which to serve them!

The Cosmopolitan is a classic for a reason and Ina Garten can obviously do no wrong, so of course I turned to Barefoot Contessa for her take on the girly concoction. After a spike in popularity due to its status as the drink of choice for the main characters on Sex & the City, the drink fell out of favor for a bit and finally is making an overdue comeback—and with good reason! There’s no denying that it’s delicious (and I could never turn down a drink in such a beautiful shade of pink!) However, I recommend ditching the martini glass unless you want to spill at least a third of your precious elixir on the countertop (or in your lap, on the floor, etc.!) Instead, go for an elegant coupe cocktail glass like this one from CB2. It’s far more functional than the traditional martini shape so you can sip the night away while feeling like a 1950s movie star.

I’ve always been drawn to drinks featuring lavender on ritzy cocktail menus at restaurants and bars , so when I came across this recipe from Hunger Thirst Play I was excited to give it a try. It is a bit more complicated but I promise the end result makes it worth the extra work! Plus, you’ll feel oh-so fancy making homemade lavender syrup. It is the perfect drink for a summer evening and somehow tastes even better in an amazing glass. I love the Current Double Old-Fashioned Glass from Crate & Barrel for its modern look thanks to the freeform curves.

The French 75 is another vintage drink that I have been loving this season. Bubbles? Check! Citrusy? Check! Refreshing? You bet! This one checks all the boxes for everything you could possibly want in a summer cocktail. This recipe from Cookie & Kate is the perfect classic version, and there are also plenty of variations for when you’re feeling experimental (the elderflower version is next on my wish list!) I prefer sparkling drinks in a traditional champagne glass, and this one from Anthropologie is like a dream. Gold rim + blush pink ombre = total swoon!

Have you been mixing your own drinks this summer, or taken on any other fun DIY projects? I’d love to hear what you’re doing with your time at home! Hang in there and stay safe, everyone!

Cheers!

~Carolyn & Team Bliss