What To Pack For A Seriously Stylish Picnic

Their iconic wicker hampers may look the part but let's get real, lugging one on the train to a city centre park isn't the best way to travel. Instead, grab yourself one of Fortnum's cool boxes - equally as recognisable in the brand's signature green - for a practical way to picnic. This particular case comes pre-packed with a feast of miniature savoury tarts from the emporium's food hall, alongside freshly-baked cakes, preserves, bubbles and plenty of other sweat treats to ensure a bumper beast for two. Did someone say dream date? This will save you time and effort, meaning more time to enjoy that pocket of sunshine…

A gingham dress? For picnic season? How groundbreaking. But come on, we have a few short months in which to revel in the al fresco lifestyle and this Doen dress is simply perfect for it.

Don't even think about setting off for a day lazing on the grass without applying an SPF that can keep you hydrated, protected and glowing. This feather-light moisturiser from Templespa is one we have been reaching for on repeat since it landed on theStylo beauty desk - it provides an environmental skin filter for your face while remaining virtually undetectable with or without make-up. A potent antioxidant complex of rocket, ginseng root, vitamin E and sodium hyaluronate mean this is as much skincare as it is SPF, creating a barrier against the sun and skin-damaging free radicals, city pollution, air con, and daily skin stress. 

Afternoon tea at Fortnum's is one of London's most nostalgic luxury past times but the brand's penchant for a cuppa has taken a more effervescent turn, just in time for the sunshine. The latest evolution in the brand's 314-year tea history, this Sparkling Tea is a certified organic blend inspired by eight of Fortnum's famous and rare brews – and despite its celebration-ready appearance, contains zero alcohol. With complex flavours and remarkable layers, notes of tropical fruits on the nose precede a palate of lemongrass, water mint and Darjeeling, this is the perfect picnic accompaniment for everyone involved.

With its crinkled smocked bodice and tie front detail, this strappy midi gives off that milkmaid feel that's everywhere right now without the need for puff sleeves - perfect if you want something a little lighter for days in the sun.

An essential purchase for holidays or simply hotter days at home, these comfy leather sandals from Michael Kors are exactly what that floaty white midi dress of yours is missing.

Real ones know that this little John Lewis fan is the perfect plus one to any event, be that a scorching picnic or a sweltering commute to work.

Picnics and pretty little cotton dresses go as well together as brie and tomato in a crusty baguette. This Reformation mini is a must pack.

This breezy little set from & Other Stories keeps those shoulders protected and those legs primed for tanning - the perfect picnic combination.

There's no picnic without the blanket - this rollaway number from H&M is a chic alternative to traditional tartans.

Just a really great summer's day dress from H&M, welcome at any picnic or just a quick lunchbreak in the sun.

Manifest good weather with this vibrant summer accessory that will ensure the sun comes with you wherever you go.

The modern woman's wicker basket, this Loewe bag is the bag of the season.

Keep your hands clean with this reusable set from the purveyors of all things picnicky, Fortnum's.

So much more chic than a disposable paper plate, and decompostable too.

If you're constantly choosing between re-applying your SPF or having a face of make-up, don't. This Clarins invisible SPF sticks is one of the best we've tried, allowing you to top up SPF over your make-up without affecting it in the slightest.

This + your favourite jorts = the perfect stay-out-all-day outfit.

Speaking of jorts, we're obsessed with this pair from Nobody's Child - they're the perfect knee-grazing length which happens to feel both cool and flattering.

If you think this season's trending round shape isn't suited to your face shape, try these - they looked great on everyone who tried.

To hunt down the perfect picnic spot, you need footwear that can work well on grass, stay sturdy when you're carrying your blanket and bits, and happily go the distance back and forth to the public loos. Trainers, are therefore, your best bet - but keep like light, breezy and summery like these 530s from New Balance. They look particularly good clashed with floaty dresses.

Noone needs uninvited guests ruining a good time. This Neal's Yard Remedies spray is a natural and genuinely nice-smelling way to keep bugs at bay.

Days in the sun demand extra levels of protection from the rays - this COS straw style should do nicely.

We implore you, no teeth - just keep this bottle opening handy at all times instead.

How do polka dots feel as picnic-perfect as gingham? Who knows - but this M&S midi nails the brief.

Body odour? Not chic. This sunshine-scented must-have from Sol de Janerio will instantly transport you to the sandy shores of Copacabana and beyond, all while eliminating the unwanted odours you might expect after a hot and sticky day outdoors. Plus points, it's aluminium free!