Save the sarnies - from trending SPFs and shoulder-exposing dresses to delectable drinks and homeware, here's how to ace the al fresco lifestyle this summer.
At long last, after what feels like an eternity, picnic season has arrived!. It's that glorious time of year when we move our socialising outdoors, bask in the sun's warm embrace and make the grass our home for the foreseeable. The ritual of assembling all the best picky bits you could possibly wish for, spreading out a blanket, and finding the perfect sun-dappled spot is a quintessential summer experience.
But let's be honest—picnics are as much about the aesthetic as they are about the snacks. What you wear is just as important as what you pack, and looking effortlessly chic while nibbling on cocktail sausages is a must. Fear not, we've curated the ultimate picnic essentials to keep ensure you take on the al fresco lifestyle in, well, style.
From on-the-go SPF that won't mess up your makeup to pre-packed selections from the experts at Fortnum's, alongside the prettiest dresses from Marks & Spencer, Reformation and more, discover what all the coolest girls are packing for their best park life this summer.
The Sparkling Teatime Picnic for Two
£100.00
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…
Emmaretta tie-detailed shirred gingham organic cotton-voile midi dress
£334.00
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.
LIFE DEFENCE SPF50 Moisturiser
£44.00
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.
Fortnum's Sparkling Tea, 0% ABV, 75cl
£19.95
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.
M&S Women's Round Neck Strappy Midaxi Smock Dress - 14REG - Purple, Purple
£39.50
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.
Logo Plate Leather Sandals
£87.00
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.
ANYDAY Handheld & Foldable Desk Fan, 4 inch, Sage
£12.00
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.
Tullia Dress
£228.00
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.
Drawstring Linen Shorts
£57.00
This breezy little set from & Other Stories keeps those shoulders protected and those legs primed for tanning - the perfect picnic combination.
Patterned picnic blanket
£19.99
There's no picnic without the blanket - this rollaway number from H&M is a chic alternative to traditional tartans.
Flared Skirt Dress
£19.99
Just a really great summer's day dress from H&M, welcome at any picnic or just a quick lunchbreak in the sun.
Statement Sun Twist Necklace
£32.00
Manifest good weather with this vibrant summer accessory that will ensure the sun comes with you wherever you go.
Loewe + Paula's Ibiza embroidered raffia tote
£850.00
The modern woman's wicker basket, this Loewe bag is the bag of the season.
Fortnum’s Cutlery Roll
£27.95
Keep your hands clean with this reusable set from the purveyors of all things picnicky, Fortnum's.
Bamboo Decompostable Plates
£7.99
So much more chic than a disposable paper plate, and decompostable too.
Clarins Invisible Sun Care Stick SPF50+
£24.00
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.
Striped Oversized Shirt
£22.99
This + your favourite jorts = the perfect stay-out-all-day outfit.
Brixton Denim Shorts
£55.00
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.
KOMONO Ana Sunglasses
£69.00
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.
530 Shoes
£100.00
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.
Citronella Formula 100ml
£12.00
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.
Woven Straw Sun Hat
£55.00
Days in the sun demand extra levels of protection from the rays - this COS straw style should do nicely.
Western Bottle Opener
£12.00
We implore you, no teeth - just keep this bottle opening handy at all times instead.
Printed V-Neck Lace Insert Midaxi Slip Dress
£39.50
How do polka dots feel as picnic-perfect as gingham? Who knows - but this M&S midi nails the brief.
Rio de Janeiro Aluminium Free Deodorant
£16.00
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!