It’s time; picnic season is finally here, and I personally couldn’t be any more excited. The process of gathering together all the picky bits you could possibly wish for, packing away a rug and finding the perfect spot on a warm summer’s day is a routine that always marks the height of summer.
But, the outfit you pick to sit sipping Pimms and eating cocktail sausages can truly make or break the day. Anything too short and I find myself constantly wary of how I’m sat or if my dress or skirt is riding up, and trousers that are too tight mean sitting on the floor is an actual chore.
So clearly, comfort is key, and when I’m putting an outfit together, I always test out how I feel sitting on the floor before I venture into the great outdoors. But just because the look is comfortable doesn’t mean it isn’t chic and thought through – if anything, a picnic is the ultimate place to whip out that floaty dress you’ve had hidden away in your wardrobe, or the sun hat that only ever makes an appearance on holiday, because as we all know, keeping our face shaded is the key to healthy – and youthful looking – skin. Sign me up for that please.
So, make sure your picnic chic is all about blending style and comfort, especially when you’ve got a bottle of rosé or two to get through…
Outfit 1: Neutral dress + hat
Quiet luxury? This outfit has it covered. In true Sofia Richie style, reach for neutral tones that sit together in perfect harmony all the way from top to toe. The centrepiece of this look is a dress that’s perfect for the warm weather and easy to move around in without worrying about any wardrobe malfunctions.
Keep the summer theme going by opting for some flat sandals that are well suited to walking on grass and if you fancy upping the ante even more, channel the most Cannes version of yourself possible and finish the whole outfit off with a big floppy hat and some oversized sunglasses that scream celeb undercover. Where’s the fizz?
Outfit 2: T-shirt + palazzo trousers
One of my favourite pieces of clothing for summer is a pair of floaty, airy trousers because they’re almost like a skort for long skirts. They look relaxed and comfortable but also elevated and expensive, which is the absolute optimum when it comes to picnic pieces and you can sit however you’d like on your blanket because they’re super loose. It’s a win, win.
With trousers like these, less is more, so a simple tee and trainers (these espadrille ones are a cute and quirky summery option instead of regular trainers) and some quality gold hoop earrings are all you need to really own this look. It’s one of my favourites and a definite go-to.
Outfit 3: Vest + shorts + trainers
A classic summer outfit, you really can’t go wrong with denim shorts and a white shirt. If you’re a person who likes to keep their shoulders covered in the sun – I can fully relate – then going for a simple collared white shirt with one side tucked into your denim shorts a la the French is the way to go.
Keep it buttoned up or wear open over the top of a tank top for a chic lowkey look. This is an intentional but comfortable outfit that’s made extra casual when paired with some sporty trainers. Finish everything off with a bum bag to complete the carefree vibe.
Outfit 4: Jumpsuit + sleek mules
Dresses are great, especially in summer, but for a picnic you cannot go wrong with a jumpsuit. I’m a huge fan of a jumpsuit because it’s such an easy piece of clothing to wear – until you need to go to the loo, of course; we’ve all been sat naked on the toilet with our jumpsuit around our ankles at one point or another. It’s a rite of passage at this point.
But aside from that, it’s comfortable to wear lounging about on your picnic blanket, picking at grapes and basking in the sun and requires little to no thought in the morning when you’re pulling your outfit together. Throw on some leather mules, your best cool girl sunnies and a simple cross body bag and you’re ready to go.
Outfit 5: Cardi + combats
For when the weather’s not quite as balmy but still pleasant enough for someone to suggest running to the shop, getting some picky bits and a bottle and catching up on a blanket, a long-sleeved top is your hero.
A cute, cardigan-like style gives off ideal picnic vibes and is still cool enough to stop any sweat patches arising. Stick to trousers, like baggy cargo pants for ultimate comfort and leave your jeans at home, locked away, in your chest of drawers because after a while sat on the floor, jeans are definitely foe instead of friend.
Complete the look by sliding on some of the ultra-comfortable, slipper-like Birkenstock Bostons and clip your hair back in a glossy claw clip for that 90s look that’s going absolutely nowhere.