We’ve always loved a spring picnic – there’s something so special about throwing a blanket down on slightly damp grass, pouring bubbles into paper cups, tucking into homemade sandwiches and sharing big bags of crisps with friends. But in 2021, when our meet-ups are purely outdoors for the next few months… well, picnics are a daily necessity. 2021 is already the year of the picnic, and it’s only April!
Picnics do take a bit of planning, though. There’s the food, of course – sandwiches, crisps and dips, fresh fruit, homemade cakes… a picnic is a great excuse for a proper feast. But when you’ve got your menu sorted, you’ll need cutlery, plates, cups, the obligatory picnic blanket, maybe some cushions, a bit of bunting to string between the trees and a cute basket to pack it all in. And that’s before we get started on your outfit… phew!
We’re here for you, though. Whether you’re planning a casual trip to the park or want to go all out with something super special, here are our top tips for throwing the perfect picnic this spring.
Practical picnic picks
Ok, so picnics are extremely Pinterest-worthy… but they need to be practical, too. Eating outdoors can be tricky and you need to be clever with your packing to make sure you have all the essentials without bringing along the kitchen sink.
Start with a good, sturdy picnic basket – we love this woven jute bag because it’s big enough for all your picnic paraphernalia but you can use it when you’re not busy picnicking, too. If you want a proper picnic bag, this gorgeous floral style has a protective coating to keep your food safe from the Great British Weather.
For your crockery, go planet-friendly with bamboo plates, cups and bowls. Unlike paper versions, they can be used again and again and they’re more sustainable than plastic. We love this fresh design, too!
And to keep your food fresh on the go, these floral tubs do the job and look good while they’re at it. Perfect for an English country garden theme.
You’ll need a blanket to sit on, so how about this floral version to match your picnic bag? . A few woven cushions will keep your guests comfy and if you’re feeling really flash… this double swing seat would be an amazing addition to any picnic gathering!
Perfect picnic style
Right, that’s your picnic practicalities sorted… what about your outfit? Will you go full English rose in a delicate, floaty dress, or keep it cool in structured separates? We’ve got aaaaall the options for you here.
We can’t have a picnic style guide without a ultra-feminine floral dress, and we’re loving this rose print version. In midi length with long, floaty sleeves it’s ideal for spring weather and super comfy for that game of rounders/second helping of cake you’re planning.
Team it with a peachy pointelle knit cardi, some low wedges (we love the pop of colour on this pair) and a jaunty scarf to tie in your hair.
For a more androgynous look, we’re totally into these Tommy denim dungarees, paired with a classic Breton stripe and these nautical-style flat espadrilles. And if you want to embody that chic French Rivera vibe, go for this high-necked cotton blouse with these earthy trousers, throw on a striped linen blazer and finish with a super stylish woven belt. Oooh la la!
Find more picnic ideas here.
