Outfit Concepts and 5 Issues to Pack
6 min read
What does it say about me if my Pinterest feed is dominated by tender linens on grass, wine glasses catching a glint of the solar, straw baskets crammed with flowers, and rosé below dappled mild? I don’t even should sort “picnic aesthetic” into the search bar—it simply is aware of. I’m a woman on a mission to romanticize my life and relating to snacks below the solar, don’t even come at me with that pink gingham print.* I want tender and supple. I want chunks of baguettes and wide-brimmed hats. I want a gown that declares, “I’m the principle character in a love story.”
And the factor about these charming picnic conditions is that all of them scream one factor: easy. Nevertheless, therein lies the issue for me. I’m identified for rocking as much as a picnic desk with a Yeti cooler crammed will an assortment of snacks, “just in case.” I want alllll the aesthetics of a dreamy picnic AND the simplicity.
Thankfully, Camille and the team were on board to bring this Pinterest-worthy vision to life. Could this picnic aesthetic truly be so easy and yet so inspiring? The answer, I’m thrilled to say, is oui! Armed with a handful of perfectly Parisian picnic outfits from (where else?) Sézane and a paired-down spread of five simple items, we set off for an afternoon surrounded by the sounds of summer and the magical Texas wildflowers.
*Don’t be fooled, I’m a full gingham girl for the entire month July.
Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
French Girl-Inspired Picnic Outfit Ideas
Before we pack our picnic basket, let’s talk attire. Surprisingly, what you decide to wear might just be the most important part of this entire picnic ordeal. Though the psychology of fashion is science-backed, I think we can all agree anecdotally that our clothing has an impact on our moods. And while there are some practical non-negotiables when it comes to a picnic outfit (something you can easily sit in, for example), what you choose to wear sets the mood for the entire experience.
When it comes to channeling effortless romance, no one does it better than the Paris-born Sézane. The high-quality, feminine pieces go beyond the trends. Dresses, shirting, pants, and accessories are timeless closet staples—for picnics and beyond.
Outfit Option 1: A Billowy Dress That’s Made for Easy Movement
A go-to dress is essential for summer. Personally, I’m always looking for something with a little romance to it—a frill, lace, a puff sleeve—so that I can dress it down with a sneaker or up with a strappy sandal. When it comes to a picnic, you want something that doesn’t pinch or ride up, so the more volume the better.
Outfit Option 2: A Shirt and Shorts Combo That’s Classic and Refined
One thing I know for sure is that every chic Parisian has a classic button-down hanging in her closet. And it’s likely this exact one. Channel those summer days of old, running around the neighborhood in denim cutoffs, with a more refined look—perfect for picnic-ing.
Outfit Option 3: A Shirt Dress That’s the Best of Both Worlds
When you can’t decide between a dress and a casual button-down, there’s a clear answer—the shirt dress. Both breathable for a hot day and chic for aesthetics, it’s a clear option for a picnic outside.
What to Pack for an Aesthetic Picnic
I like to think of the picnic aesthetic as impulsive yet poised. It’s “Oh, look! The sun is shining and I absolutely must be outside!” mixed with, “But first, a trip to the market because this kitchen is empty.” Your picnic affair can be a party of one or a date—significant other or otherwise. Either way, all you need for a spread that’s both delicious and (let’s be honest) photo-worthy are these five no-prep items:
- Chilled Rosé. A bottle of wine or champagne is easily the crown jewel of any picnic. Sip it slowly and let its effervescence transport you to a world where wildflowers and poetry become your entire personality.
- A Fresh Baguette. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from the French is that a baguette is not a baguette unless it is fresh from the boulangerie. But if there isn’t a bakery en route from home to your chosen field of flowers, I won’t tell.
- Cheese. Of course, there must be cheese. Grab a single favorite or get crazy and pick up one soft cheese and one hard cheese for contrasting flavors.
- Stone Fruit. It’s robust, it’s colorful, and it doesn’t require any slicing. Of course, if you’re picnic-packing outside of summer, choose a seasonal fresh fruit so it tastes best. (Jam also works in a pinch.)
- Salty Nuts. Every good spread needs a salty punch to truly make it all sing. We unapologetically packed shelled pistachios for both flavor and color aesthetics.
Grab the Necessities
To truly capture the romantic vibe of your picnic, grab a few additional items that will set the stage. First, ditch the traditional picnic blanket for a neutral sheet or tablecloth (this linen table throw was practically made for picnics). Pro tip: we’re after aesthetics but we’re not here to ruin our nice things. Bring a waterproof mat to place beneath your fabric—they’re mild and simple to throw in a basket. Subsequent, pack solely the necessities to deliver your unfold to life: a small cheese board, cheese knives, and, after all, a wine glass (or two).
Remaining Touches to Seize the Picnic Aesthetic
Lastly, take your picnic to the subsequent degree with the 2 most romantic issues on God’s inexperienced earth: phrases and contemporary flowers. Pack a novel or a set of poetry. Or higher but, deliver a journal to put in writing down your individual phrases. And there’s no disgrace in shopping for your self flowers or selecting just a few alongside the best way. Even just a few blooms will add a contact of caprice to your picnic spot—as should you’ve stepped into your very personal secret backyard.
To wrap all of it up, let’s preserve it actual. Life is way from romantic on a regular basis. Did we step in a number of ant piles on the best way to our ~dreamy~ subject location? Completely. However that is your second to embrace the wonders of on a regular basis life, pesky ant piles or not. On the danger of sounding sappy, the enjoyment of residing is really within the journey, and as a rule, it’s in our decisions. It’s the lens via which we select to see life. So, placed on rosé coloured glasses. Put on the gown. Pour the wine. Faux to know the poetry. And embrace the singular second for what it’s—totally romantic.
The enjoyment of residing is really within the journey, and as a rule, it’s in our decisions. It’s the lens via which we select to see life.
