Chic? Iconic? Picnic!

As we welcome spikes to scorching temperatures, one way to beat the heat (and give yourself a treat) is dining al fresco— and there is positively no chicer way of eating out outdoors than organizing a classic, iconic picnic with your closest pals. Though one can stretch the definition of a picnic, even going as far as to say Garden Party style is encapsulated under the umbrella, the style is somewhere closer to Cottage-core with a pinch of sportiness and a wallop of whimsy. Just like the snacks you packed in a basket, you can serve a wide range.

Whether you want to channel Carrie Bradshaw’s controversial “Heidi” outfit and go full-on dirndl and fake freckles or serve park ranger realness, with July being National Picnic Month, there’s no better time to plan your look than now. So, grab your basket, get your ant spray, and make like Yogi and be above average in a forest of average bears.

Check off “gingham” first on your list of picnic to-do’s and ta-dah! with this classic check print. Go bold with oversized squares on a romper or more demure with teeny tiny tone on tone. Just beware not to match your blanket—unless you go all out with a coordinating hat, glasses, food, etc.

The plot gets thicker when you reach for the wicker! An underrated but fabulous texture to add a little natural zing to your outfit, that also gives good Golden Girl vibes. Any of the classic woven purses from Jacquemus or Max Mara give a much-needed update to what could easily become an accessory to Little Red Riding-hood cosplay (not that there’s anything wrong with that!)

Did you know Sabrina the Teenage Witch and picnics have one thing in common? Sometimes, their fun is spoiled by a(u)nts! But no picnic is complete without them, so why not take control of the situation and bring the bugs in the form of fabulous prints and ostentatious brooches? Little crystalline insectoid charms evoke the ‘60s and the one-with-nature vibes crucial to a picnic.

And of course, the fun isn’t just for your ‘fit—find a handsome, sturdy picnic basket (one complete with sleek and unshatterable wine glasses, bien sur!), or an instant camera to capture all of the moments of frivolity for posterity, and some sleek foldable chairs so you won’t get a grass stain or spill on your brand new iconic picnic chic look!