Picnic Outfits Are Surprisingly Hard to Master, But I've Done It
Roll out the blankets and stock up on the Pimm's cans because it's officially picnic season. I'm the first to admit that it's more important to think about what you eat at the picnic than what you wear to it, but once you've got your sandwich fillings decided, see the picnic-ready outfits I've found that will make you even more excited for a summer spent eating al fresco in the sunshine.
From dresses that you can actually sit comfortably in to a top that will make you feel like you're wearing a bikini (even when you aren't), keep scrolling to see our guide on what to wear to a picnic.
1. PRINTED SKIRT + SILKY BLOUSE

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@sallyomoStyle Notes: Inject some glamour into your picnic attire by pairing a silky blouse with a pretty floral midi skirt. As for accessories, a basket bag seems like the natural solution.
Florals for spring might not be groundbreaking, but they are perfect for garden parties.
Is there anything more effortlessly chic than a pair of cat-eye sunglasses?
2. CAMI + DENIM CUTOFFS

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@maggie_mccormackStyle Notes: If you're planning on catching some rays as you feast, a camisole and denim cutoffs provide the perfect alternative to a swimsuit—don't forget the sunscreen.
The handy ties can be unfastened, meaning no awkward tan lines.
Channel the stacked-jewellery trend with a simple but effective double chain that comes already paired.
Well, you're going to need a bag big enough for all of your supplies after all.
3. COLOURFUL CHECKS + STATEMENT SUNNIES

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Style Notes: Checks are no longer just in greys and monochromatic colours. The trend has moved forward with vibrant colours, and these dresses make perfect picnic attire.
White frames add an instantly retro feel to any outfit.
I love the seasonal colours of this dress and the roomy fit.
Never underestimate the leg-lengthening properties of a pair of strappy sandals in a neutral shade.
4. GINGHAM + WHITE DENIM

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@lenafarlStyle Notes: White jeans might be prone to grass stains, but if you have a waterproof blanket or perhaps a deck chair, they make for the perfect springtime piece, particularly when paired with gingham checks.
Score double points with gingham and puff sleeves.
White denim is a fresh change for summer from the heavier blue and indigo washes.
There is always room in our wardrobe for a leopard-print platform.
5. BANDEAU TOP + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS

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Style Notes: If wearing swimwear to a park in the city will always feel wrong to you, the best in-between option is to wear is a bandeau top with trousers.
Swapping traditional black lenses for coloured ones adds another point of interest to your look.
Trust us—it's far easier to wear than it looks. In fact, it just slips on and stretches to fit.
Say no to boring flats with these embellished, mesh pumps.
6. PASTEL LINEN + PLAYFUL ACCESSORIES

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@amaka.hamelijnckStyle Notes: Although rare, heatwaves do happen on British soil. Ensure you're prepared by investing in wafty linen pieces, which make for comfortable picnicking and lounging, too.
Bucket hats are still the fashion editor's sun hat of choice this summer.
Arket's linen staples are premium quality at high-street price.
Triple up on linen for an outfit that looks and feels cool.
7. PUFF SLEEVES + WIDE-LEG DENIM

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@vikilefevreStyle Notes: You can never go wrong with a puff-sleeve blouse and jeans come spring and summer. Opt for dark denim, as it's less likely to show any inevitable spillages.
8. FANCY FROCK + BASKET BAG

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@chloepierreldnStyle Notes: Going on a picnic is the perfect excuse to wear one of your prettiest dresses. Go for floaty fabrics that will be comfortable when you sit down. And yes, you can coordinate with the picnic blanket, if you wish.
If you were looking for the ultimate summer date-night dress, we just found it.
A responsibly manufactured bracelet made from natural pearls and recycled gold for the conscious shopper with a refined eye.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: 18 summer-ready outfits for 2022.
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