No seasoned host enters the summer season unprepared—and chief among the unsung heroes of warm-weather entertaining is the ice bucket. Discreet in its duty yet quietly indispensable, it is the object that allows a gathering to flow with unruffled ease. As temperatures rise and glasses clink, these insulated vessels preserve the pleasure of a perfectly chilled pour, saving the host endless pilgrimages to the freezer.
Interior designer and ELLE DÉCOR A-Lister Young Huh—whose soirées are as considered as her rooms—never entertains without one. “I tailor the ice bucket to the mood,” she says. “A faceted crystal piece adds a sense of occasion, while a well-worn vintage one feels relaxed, almost nostalgic.”
We’ve assembled a curation of summer-ready ice buckets—from utilitarian classics to bold conversation pieces—that promise to keep things cool, and company charmed.
Saddle leather, classic canvas, and brass detailing create an equestrian-inspired charm. Brass tongs included.
This iconic ice pail in fire engine red fits in just as well at a summer soiree as it does at the Museum of Modern Art.
The sleek elegance of silver plate brings a Roaring Twenties sensibility worthy of any West Egg fête.
Based on drawings by Piero Fornasetti from the 1950s, this bucket features a classical motif still hand-painted in Italy today.
A pop of taxicab yellow on your drinks tray never felt so chic. Take your cue from designer Miles Redd: It’s hip to be square.
Featuring two handles and a glazed ceramic spatterware finish, this piece is as decorative as it is utilitarian.
Crafted from individually lacquered and stained pieces of wood, this multihued piece by designer Matilda Goad delivers.
When not on bar duty, this Delft blue marbleized container works as a cachepot for a maidenhair fern.
Handwoven rattan detailing and tongs add texture to your beach house’s bar cart.
