What does it say about me if my Pinterest feed is dominated by fluffy sheets on the grass, sun-reflecting wine glasses, straw baskets filled with flowers, and rosés in dappled light? I don’t even have to type “picnic aesthetic” in the search bar, I just knows. I’m a girl on a mission to idealize my life and when it comes to snacking in the sun, don’t even give me that red gingham print.* I need soft and supple. I need bits of baguettes and wide-brimmed hats. I need a dress that declares: “I am the main character in a love story.”
And the thing about these lovely picnic situations is that they all scream one thing: easy. However, therein lies the problem for me. I’ve been known to climb onto a picnic table with a Yeti cooler filled with assorted snacks, “just in case.” Wanna all the aesthetics of a dream picnic AND the simplicity.
Fortunately, Camille and the team were on board to bring this Pinterest-worthy vision to life. Could this picnic aesthetic really be so easy and yet so inspiring? The answer, I’m excited to say, is oui! Armed with a handful of perfectly Parisian picnic outfits from (where else?) Sézane and a combo assortment of five simple items, we set off to spend an afternoon surrounded by the sounds of summer and magical Texas wildflowers.
*Don’t be fooled, I’m a gingham girl for the whole month of July.
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French Girl Inspired Picnic Outfit Ideas
Before we pack our picnic basket, let’s talk about clothing. Surprisingly, what you decide to wear might be the most important part of this whole picnic ordeal. Although the psychology of fashion is backed by science, I think we can all agree anecdotally that our clothes have an impact on our mood. And while there are some practicalities that are non-negotiables when it comes to picnic attire (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 romance effortlessly, no one does it better than the Paris-born Sézane. High-quality feminine pieces go beyond trends. Dresses, shirts, pants and accessories are timeless wardrobe staples, for picnics and beyond.
Outfit Option 1 – A billowy dress made for ease of movement
A basic dress is essential for summer. Personally, I always look for something with a bit of romance (a ruffle, lace, a puffed sleeve) so I can dress it up with a sneaker or strappy sandal. When it comes to a picnic, you want something that won’t pinch or ride up, so the more volume the better.
Outfit Option 2 – A shirt and shorts combination that is 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 is likely that it is exactly this. Channel those summer days of yore, running around the neighborhood in jean shorts, for a more refined look perfect for picnics.
Outfit Option 3: A Shirt Dress That’s the Best of Both Worlds
When you can’t decide between a dress and a casual shirt, there’s a clear answer: the shirtdress. Breathable for a hot day and stylish for its aesthetics, it’s a clear choice for an outdoor picnic.
What to pack for an aesthetic picnic
I like to think that the picnic aesthetic is impulsive but balanced. It’s “Oh look! The sun is shining and I absolutely has to be out!” mixed with, “But first, a trip to the market because this kitchen is empty.” Your picnic event can be a party of one or a date, significant other, or otherwise. Either way, everything What you need for a delicious and (let’s be honest) photo-worthy pasta are these five items that need no prep:
- Icy rosé. A bottle of wine or champagne is easily the crown jewel of any picnic. Take it slowly and let its effervescence transport you to a world where wild flowers and poetry become your whole personality.
- A Fresh Baguette. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from the French, it’s that a baguette isn’t a baguette unless it’s fresh from the boulangerie. But if there is no bakery on the way from your house to the chosen flower field, I will not say.
- Cheese. Of course, there must be cheese. Choose a single favorite or go crazy and choose a soft cheese and a hard cheese to contrast flavors.
- stone fruit. It is robust, colorful and does not require any cutting. Of course, if you’re packing a picnic outside of the summer, choose a fresh fruit that’s in season to make it taste better. (Jam also works in a pinch.)
- Salted nuts. Every good spread needs a touch of salty to make it all sound good. We unapologetically pack shelled pistachios for both flavor and color aesthetics.
Grab the necessities
To truly capture the romantic atmosphere of your picnic, grab a few extra items to set the scene. First, ditch the traditional picnic blanket for a neutral sheet or tablecloth (this linen tablecloth was practically made for picnics). Pro Tip: We’re after aesthetics, but we’re not here to ruin our pretty things. Bring a waterproof mat to place under the cloth; They are lightweight and easy to fit in a basket. Next, pack just the essentials to bring your pasta to life: a small cheese board, cheese knives, and of course, a glass of wine (or two).
Final touches to capture the picnic aesthetic
Finally, take your picnic to the next level with the two most romantic things on God’s green earth: words and fresh flowers. Pack a novel or a collection of poetry. Or better yet, keep a journal to record your own words. And there’s no shame in buying yourself flowers or picking some up on the road. Even a few flowers will add a touch of whimsy to your picnic spot, like you’ve stepped into your own secret garden.
To sum it all up, let’s keep it real. Life is far from romantic all the time. Did we pass several ant piles on the way to our ~dream~ field location? Absolutely. But this is your time to embrace the wonders of everyday life, pesky ant swarms or not. At the risk of sounding corny, the joy of life is really in the journey, and more often than not, it is in our choices. It is the lens through which we choose to view life. So put on some rose-colored glasses. Put on the dress. Serve the wine. Pretending to understand poetry. And embrace the singular moment for what it is—absolutely romantic.
The joy of living is truly in the journey, and more often than not, it is in our choices. It is the lens through which we choose to view life.
