
What to Wear to a Summer Picnic in 2025: 8 Outfits That Photograph So Good
Summer picnic outfits 2025 and summer picnic outfit ideas for birthday picnic here! But also fashionable summer picnic outfits for a summer picnic date in bad weather – when it’s cold, rainy, and windy, and you are the only one having a picnic. And of course, summer outfit for a BBQ picnic – I tested it last week and it pictures so well. In short, here are trendy picnic outfits for a summer picnic in any weather and at any location. Yes, even for that dreamy summer picnic on a mountaintop! So, whether you’re planning a picnic with friends, a romantic date, or just a peaceful solo escape, here are outfits that will keep you looking chic and feeling comfortable throughout the day.
OGLAS I get a commission for purchases or clicks made through links in this post.
The sweet scent of freshly-cut grass, the laughter of friends and family, and the delightful treats you put into your picnic basket all come together this summer.
And as the warm sun calls us to bask in its glory, it’s nice to wear a pretty summer picnic outfit. One that effortlessly blends style, comfort, and a touch of boujee. From the lightness of a gentle breeze to the laughter of loved ones, your outfit will enhance the picnic.
From breezy sundresses that dance with the wind to relaxed linen fits that exude European summer, furthermore to that pretty boho summer picnic dress, here is a collection of fashion-forward looks that charm on a summer picnic.
Just picture yourself laying down your pink picnic blanket, the grass beneath tinged with hues of golden brown (pov, slightly itching, but you have pillows with you).
Above you, the sun brushes the sky with hues of blue, shining on the picturesque field. The rays weave through the leaves above you, cascading beams that dapple the ground like a scattering of glitter from your snowball.
And oh, the flowers! They bloom in a kaleidoscope of colors. Butterflies and bees flit from blossom to blossom, picking the sweet nectar.
Lively wildflowers and radiant daisies move together, and flower fragrances blending in an intoxicating perfume that fills the air.
And your dress, your dress matches the flowers – wait! What flowers? There are no flowers on the beach! And nor are we wearing a dress – or are we? Scroll down to see what to wear to a summer picnic on the beach, lawn, garden, mountain top, or meadow.
Ps. If you are going on a work picnic – make sure you check the picnic dress code guide, first. It’s on Brunette from Wall Street Substack – exclusively for paid subscribers.
SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS TO WEAR TO A SUMMER PICNIC IN 2025
By the way, all the collages and product galleries in this article are hyperlinked and shoppable too! Yes, you heard it right – you can shop all these fabulous summer picnic outfits with a simple click inside the pink brackets within the collages.
To shop for my look simply click on the product you need to recreate that picnic outfit. Your click will take you to the store where you can buy that item (btw I’ve bought it there, too – pov if it’s linked to a different store, I only wanted to make sure you could get the same outfit at a better price and with smaller shipping costs).
And if you want to know more about the size and fit of the clothes/shoes before purchasing it – subscribe to Brunette from Wall Street Substack. It’s all there. Plus, the 101 style guide for every outfit. Yes, I’m telling you why we paired that top with those shorts, that dress with those shoes and that headband.
*If you need more help or have more questions, you can always book a styling session with me. Just fill out this form and I will help you.
QUICK ANSWER BOX:
Best Overall Picnic Outfit: Outfit Option 8
Most Versatile: Blue Gingham Dress (Shop Now)
The Prettiest: This Halterneck Sundress
Budget Pick Under $100: Outfit Option 2 – but with these shoes
Luxury Splurge: Designer Option – Outfit Option 6
ROMANTIC SUMMER OUTFITS FOR A PICNIC DATE
I know, talking about tariffs, shipping costs and prices, kills the romance. But let us continue from where we left off – on the meadow.
As the sun sets, shining on the wild flowers, and the gentle breeze whispers sweet nothings, there’s nothing quite as dreamy as a picnic date in the company of your beloved.
1 LONG FLORAL DRESS WITH WEDGE SANDALS
You lower yourself onto the blanket, feeling the itchy give of grass beneath the pink cotton. Luckily, you brought cushions, so you will be ok.
Your dress pools around you and the floral print catches the golden hour light like they were painted just for this moment.
“Finally,” he/they/she (we will use “he” from now on, but it could be any pronoun), setting down the basket with exaggerated relief. “I thought we’d never find the perfect spot.”
“The wine’s probably warm,” you tease, already reaching for the basket’s worn leather straps. Your fingers brush his as you both grab for the handle, and he uses the moment to steal a kiss.
“Everything’s better warm,” he murmurs against your lips, and you laugh, pushing him away playfully.
You take out the grissini first, then the grapes, still cool somehow, and finally the baguette and cheese.
“Remember our first picnic?” you ask, popping a grape into your mouth. The sweetness bursts on your tongue, mixing with the warmth of the memory.
“You mean when I forgot the corkscrew and we had to push the cork into the bottle with a stick?” He’s already wrestling with this year’s bottle, but you came prepared this time.
A breeze picks up, sending your sleeve fluttering and exposing your shoulder. The grass sways all around you, and somewhere in the distance, you hear light romantic music. Did he bring his new/old CD-player with him? Rumour has it CD-players are very popular right now.
Anyway, this is exactly how you imagined it when you pulled this dress from your closet this morning.
You notice a wild carrot growing just beyond the blanket’s edge. The delicate white umbrella of flowers swaying in the breeze looks so utterly romantic. Without thinking, you pluck it, twirling it between your fingers.
“Make a wish,” you say, holding it up.
He leans back on his elbows, watching you with that look that still makes your stomach flip after all this time. “What would I wish for? Everything I want is already here.”
You roll your eyes at his cheesiness, but your smile gives you away.
“Better wine selection, a blanket that doesn’t let grass poke through, maybe some pistachio ice cream…”
“I brought ice cream,” he interrupts, diving back into the basket like an eager retriever.
The dress shifts as you lean forward to see what he’s found, the cotton breathing with you, moving like it’s part of the landscape.
“Pistachio ice cream with sea salt,” he announces triumphantly, taking out a bucket of ice cream.
“You do love me,” you gasp in mock surprise.
The wild carrot is still in your hand, and you use it to knight him on both shoulders. “Sir Perfect Picnic Planner, I hereby decree that you’ve earned exactly one tea spoon of this ice cream.”
“One spoon?” He lunges for the bar, but you’re quicker, holding it above your head as you fall back onto the blanket, laughing.
“Hey,” he says softly.
“Hey yourself.”
“I love you in that dress.” His finger traces the flutter of your sleeve. “You look like summer.”
You turn your head to face him, grass tickling your cheek. “Just the dress?”
“Well, the dress is a bonus,” he admits, producing two wine glasses from somewhere with the flourish of a magician. “But I’d love you in a paper bag. Especially if the paper bag came with grissini.”
The cork comes free with a soft pop. As he pours, you sit up, tucking your legs to the side in that unconscious way that makes the dress drape just so. Not that you’re thinking about the dress.
“To wild carrot wishes,” you say, raising your glass.
“To finding the perfect spot,” he counters.
Your glasses meet with a gentle clink that rings out clear and true in the evening air.
“We should do this every week,” you say.
“Next week,” he agrees, refilling your glass. “Same time, same place, same dress?”
You smile, reaching for another grape. “Maybe a different dress. A girl’s got to keep some mystery.”
But you both know you’ll wear this one again. How could you not?
2 SHORT SLEEVE LINEN DRESS WITH STRAPY SANDALS AND A BUCKET HAT
For a romantic summer picnic date, nothing exudes charm and comfort quite like a dress. I find a linen dress the best for when it’s very hot – which can often be the case at the end of August. I feel the burnt grass itself makes it hotter for 2-3°C alone. To add a touch of playfulness, you can style it with a matching hat.
Obviously, the centerpiece of this outfit will still be the dress. You might want to go for a floral dress. The floral print will add a romantic and whimsical touch, evoking feelings of sun-kissed grass.
Pick a dress that features puffy sleeves for an airy and relaxed fit. And a hem that falls just above the knee, giving a balance between chic and casual. You don’t want to wear too short dress for a picnic anyway.
Pair the dress with By Far Tanya mules. By Far sandal mules are so chic with their minimalistic yet refined design. But you will love their comfortable heel height and sleek silhouette even more.
Complete the fit with a cotton hat. It can be a bucket hat – if it matches the dress. And make sure you grab a cute raffia basket bag. I added one in the product gallery below. Pov it’s not mine, but you might love it even more. It’s bigger, and it goes well with the trendy summer picnic outfit I put together for you below.
3 LINEN SET WITH SHORTS AND CROP TOP WITH FLAT MULES AND WIDE-BRIM HAT
One summer (not so long ago, though), we had sunflowers stretching as far as the eye could see. We had two sunflower fields, and one day, I decided to grab my picnic basket and lay my pretty pink blanket right under the sunflowers.
The sun was illuminating the field, creating a halo of warmth that surrounded me. The air was alive with the scent of sunflowers (they don’t smell nice, btw).
And as you can see in the video below, my attire immensely complemented the idyllic scene.
A linen floral crop top and matching shorts mirrored the blooms that were swaying around me. And the Eugenia Kim wide-brim hat created an air of mystery and allure. Also, it gave me the best protection from the sun.
I paired my linen set with Malone Souliers flat mules in black that matched nothing but the bottle of wine in my picnic basket.
But, if you happen to find yourself beneath the golden gaze of a sunflower-studded sky, copy this summer picnic outfit from head to toe. It’s a sun-kissed romantic picnic perfection.
FASHIONABLE SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS FOR A SUMMER BIRTHDAY BBQ PICNIC
But if you find yourself at a summer birthday BBQ picnic, make sure to go head to toe luxury boho or rococo this summer.
Luxury boho summer BBQ picnics and rococo picnics are trending right now.
4 RED LACE DRESS WITH BROWN COWBOY BOOTIES
Imagine rows of grapevines stretching out on either side of the path.
“Oh my god, you’re here!” The birthday girl rushes toward you, her arms outstretched, bangles chiming like tiny bells. You can see macramé installations hanging from the vines behind her. And moroccan poufs scattered across persian rugs laid directly on the grass, and low wooden tables adorned with pampas grass arrangements that reach toward the sky.
“This is another level,” you breathe, taking in the sight of the red wine catching the light in crystal glasses. You spot the vintage bar cart positioned under a billowing cream canvas canopy, and a photographer capturing people’s arrivals.
“I wanted this birthday to be big,” she laughs, guiding you past a tower of macarons in dusty rose and sage green.
Someone presses a welcome cocktail into your hand. The glass is beaded with condensation, herbs muddled at the bottom releasing some strange oils with each swirl. Rosemary, you think, and something else. The first sip is tart and botanical, with an effervescence that makes your tongue tingle.
Now this is cocktail is not good, take a glass of red instead.
“The grill master has arrived,” someone announces, and you turn to see him manning what can only be described as an outdoor kitchen setup, complete with marble prep surfaces and copper accents that match the general aesthetic.
Smoke rises from the grill, as you turn around to sit down.
“Try this,” someone passes you a plate. The grilled octopus, drizzled with something green and glistening. The first bite is smoky and tender, with a hint of preserved lemon that makes your mouth water for more.
But you drift toward the bar cart, where a mixologist (of course there’s a mixologist) is creating something with elderflower, red wine and champagne.
“What can I create for you?” he asks, his hands already reaching for bottles filled with jewel-toned liquids.
“Surprise me,” you say, running your fingers along the red dress you are wearing.
He starts muddling blackberries that stain the pestle purple, adding something clear that smells like flowers, a splash of champagne that hisses as it hits the fruit. You watching closely, leaning forward slightly, when, “Oh shit, sorry!”
It happens in slow motion. The man next to you, turning too quickly with his fresh cocktail, his elbow catching the edge. The glass tips, and burgundy liquid (wine, of course, it’s red wine) arcs through the air.
You feel it before you see it. The cold splash across your bodice, seeping through the lace’s patterns. For a moment, everyone freezes. The party seems to hold its breath. Or at least it seems so to you.
Then you look down and start laughing.
“Oh my god, I’m so sorry,” he stammers, napkins appearing from nowhere, hands reaching to help then pulling back, unsure of boundaries.
“Look,” you say, still laughing, spreading your arms so the dress catches the light. “It’s red lace. You literally couldn’thave picked a better dress to spill red wine on.”
“I really am sorry,” the spiller says again. He’s cute, you notice now.
“Buy me a glass and we’ll call it even,” you say, and his relief is palpable.
5 BLUE GINGHAM PICNIC DRESS WITH BASQUE WAIST WITH ESPADRILLES AND FASCINATOR
You pause at the garden gate, double-checking the invitation on your phone. “Rococo BBQ Birthday Bash” it says, which seemed like a contradiction until now. Through the wrought iron, you glimpse a wonderland—paper chandeliers dripping with crystals hang from the oak trees, gold-painted furniture dots the lawn, and is that a baroque mirror propped against the garden shed?
“You came!” Your friend rushes over, wearing what can only be described as a milkmaid-meets-Marie-Antoinette situation, complete with a towering wig adorned with tiny plastic hamburgers. “And you look perfect. Very shepherdess-chic.”
The grass beneath your flat espadrilles has been painted with gold spray in swirling patterns, creating paths between stations. You feel the slight tackiness through your soles, hear the faint crackle as you walk.
The sensation is surreal.
“Champagne?” A server appears. The glasses are plastic, but someone has hot-glued pearls around the rims. You take one, feeling the fake gems under your fingers, oddly charmed by the commitment to the theme.
That’s when you see him.
He’s standing by the grill, of all places, wearing a perfectly normal linen shirt and shorts, but with a baroque gold picture frame hanging around his neck like the world’s most committed name tag.
“The MBA guy,” your friend whispers, following your gaze. “M something – I forgot his name. But I know it starts with M. He’s been asking about you.”
The champagne bubbles tickle your nose as you take a sip to cover your surprise. “Asking about me?”
“Mmhmm.”
“It’s been a while.”
Your dress sways as you turn, pretending to admire a table set with actual candelabras (the candles are LED, but the effect works).
The party swirls around you. Someone’s set up a croquet course with gilded wickets, couples are taking selfies in front of a backdrop painted like Fragonard’s “The Swing,” and the smoke from the grill mingles with the scent of roses from the abundant arrangements in spray-painted urns.
You’re examining a tower of macarons when you hear: “Finally, we meet again.”
You turn. It’s M.
“Omg, it’s you.
“Want to see something?” he asks, and you nod, following him past a group attempting period-appropriate dancing to Carpenter.
He leads you to a quieter corner of the garden where someone has created a “powder room”.
“Look,” he says, positioning you in front of the mirror.
CUTE SUMMER OUTFITS FOR A PICNIC ON THE BEACH IN SUMMER
Imagine the soft sand beneath your feet, the gentle roar of the ocean in the background, and the sun painting the sky with hues of gold and blue.
Whether you’re planning a romantic date by the shore, a casual gathering with friends, or a solo retreat to soak in the serenity, here are summer beach picnic outfits that have you covered.
From airy maxi dresses that billow like the waves to breezy linen shorts paired with chic tops, our fashion-forward suggestions are designed for beachside relaxation while keeping you effortlessly stylish. Both outfits are giving comfort and flair, ensuring you’re ready to enjoy the sand, sun, and sumptuous treats in style.
6 ONE SHOULDER BIKINI TOP AND LINEN SHORTS WITH A BELT WITH SLIDE FLATS
So, step into the sun-kissed beachside bliss in a chic beach picnic outfit for a European summer look. Imagine the rhythmic waves and the endless horizon as the backdrop to your seaside picnic.
A one-shoulder flounced bikini top will effortlessly imitate that carefree allure of the ocean breeze. The playful design will add a touch of flirtatious elegance, creating an eye-catching focal point that will complement the coastal scenery.
I paired mine with chic linen shorts adorned with a belt. Belted linen shorts exude laid-back sophistication, allowing you to move with ease as you explore the shoreline or relax on your picnic blanket.
Finish the look with flat slides that will allow you to enjoy the beach with a carefree stride. Ps. I made sure to find slides in simple design that will complement the relaxed vibe of your outfit – see the product gallery below, or go for something more luxurious and shop for the pair presented in the collage.
Of course, no beach picnic outfit is complete without the quintessential wide-brim straw hat. I suggest a Eugenia Kim hat with a scarf, a charming detail that is giving and protects your shoulders from the sun.
7 LINEN SET WITH SLIDES
Follow your summer’s picnic calendar with smartly cut linen pieces that won’t weigh you down. My favourite style delivers effortlessly chic options for the beach as well.
The linen top takes center stage with its button-front design, allowing you to adjust the neckline to your preference. This feature not only adds a functional aspect but also lends a quaint, rustic appeal to the outfit. The breathable and airy nature of linen fabric ensures you’ll stay cool even under the harsh sun.
Complementing the top, the linen shorts or equally chic bow tie cotton shorts complete the set with finesse. The addition of a belt adds a subtle waist-cinching effect, creating a flattering silhouette while maintaining comfort.
The natural fabric and the beige hue lend a casual elegance, making linen/cotton beige shorts a versatile addition to your summer wardrobe even when you are not putting together a beach picnic outfit.
You can pair the linen set with any fashionable chic slides. Opt for a design that reflects the beachy vibe – perhaps woven details, espadrille-style soles, or even adorned with pearl accents (mine have a pearl, actually) – or these Havaianas that you will love so much. They effortlessly fuse pretty and functional, allowing you to easily slip them on and off as you transition between sandy shores and picnic spot.
CASUAL SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS FOR PICNIC ON A HILL / MOUNTAIN TOP
As the summer sun ascends to its zenith, a new adventure awaits those who seek both the tranquillity of nature and a goodcompany.
High above the world, atop mountain peaks or hilltops, that view! There is no more exceptional location to bite into your sandwich.
Point of view, my perspective of mountain/hilltop picnic might be different from yours. All in all, I’m surrounded by the Alps and high hills, and our vision of a picnic on a mountain top clearly gives priority to safety.
So, forget about the flowing maxi dress that dances with the wind, mirroring the graceful sway of the trees (the higher you go, the fewer trees you will see). No sandals – they will not allow you to explore rocky paths with ease (or at all), and no wide-brimmed hats that would shield you from the sun while lending an air of elegance – you will need a cap.
And a backpack instead of the rustic basket bag.
8 CASUAL PINK PICNIC OUTFIT WITH HIKING BOOTS AND A TRUCKER HAT
To cross the perfect balance between comfort, functionality, and fashion, put on a delightful outfit featuring a pink windbreaker or a light jacket from on (sometimes a light jacket will do – but, please, check the weather report and consult with the people on the hill), black leggings, sturdy hiking boots, and a coordinating backpack.
This outfit will ensure you’re dressed for the location and add a touch of flair to your mountain picnic.
And yes, you read leggings. Knowing me, you know leggings (the real leggings – not skinny pants that stretch like leggings) are the last thing I would suggest you wear for a picnic, but for a picnic on the mountain/hilltop, they have to be the first one. Safety first, remember?
For flexibility and ease of movement, slip into a pair of snug yet stretchy leggings – I found these leggings for you – seethe product gallery below.
The leggings provide the comfort you need for a hike to your chosen picnic spot. Their form-fitting silhouette ensures that you can navigate uneven terrains and rocky paths with confidence, while their breathable fabric keeps you feeling fresh throughout your adventure.
Ps. For those who cherish the call of the great outdoors, a pair of Salomon hiking boots is essential. Designed for rugged terrains, these boots offer the support and traction you need to conquer the winding trails that lead to your hilltop picnic destination. As you ascend, your steps are cushioned, and your style remains on point.
THE BEST PICNIC OUTFITS FOR SUMMER 2025
- ROMANTIC SUMMER OUTFITS FOR A PICNIC DATE
- FASHIONABLE SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS FOR A SUMMER BIRTHDAY BBQ PICNIC
- CUTE SUMMER OUTFITS FOR A PICNIC ON THE BEACH IN SUMMER
- CASUAL SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS FOR PICNIC ON A HILL / MOUNTAIN TOP
- FAQ SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS 2025
- MORE SUMMER OUTFITS 2025 YOU CAN WEAR TO A DATE
FAQ SUMMER PICNIC OUTFITS 2025
*If you need more help or have more questions, you can always book a styling session with me. Just fill out this form and I will help you.
long floral dress with wedge sandals
short sleeve linen dress with strappy sandals and a matching bucket hat
linen set with shorts and crop top with flat mules and wide-brim hat
red puff sleeve short dress with cowboy boots and pearl hair pin
blue gingham picnic dress with basque waist and flat espadrilles with ankle ties
one shoulder bikini top and linen shorts with a belt and slide flats
linen set with slides
pink windbreaker with black leggings and Salomon shoes
The choice can vary based on the location and weather conditions, but rest assured that any summer picnic outfit featured in the Brunette from Wall Street summer picnic outfit edit will be absolutely ideal.
Yes, there is! Check the picnic dress code guide to learn about what is appropriate to wear to a picnic.
linen set/dress with slides and wide-brim hat for beach picnic
mini dress with strapy sandals and bucket hat for a summer picnic in the park
floral dress with wedge sandals for a picnic on the meadow
gingham dress with basque waist and flat espadrilles for BBQ picnic
red mini lace dress with cowboy booties for picnic in the vineyard
pink windbreaker with black leggings and Salomon hiking boots for mountain/hill picnic
For a beach picnic wear a linen set (as seen in the Brunette from Wall Street summer picnic outfit edit), or a lightweight dress paired with slides, a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. For a summer picnic in the park wear gingham dress, midi dress, midi skirt, or puff-sleeve dress for a vintage vibe. For a summer picnic in the field, wear linen that gives therustic charm. For a summer picnic on the meadow, wear a floral dress (check the Brunette from Wall Street summer picnic outfit edit for inspiration). For a BBQ summer picnic wear something fashionable, but make sure to keep your outfit simple to avoid getting fancy embellishments stuck in a deck chair – a gingham dress could work just fine paired with trendy shoes (see in the Brunette from Wall Street summer picnic outfit edit). For a summer mountain/hilltop picnic wear hiking clothes and shoes – but make sure they are in pretty colours to make your picnic outfit cute.
Linen and cotton.
When dressing for a mountain/hilltop picnic, it is essential to consider the weather and location. Point of view, mountain and hill are not the same. While you can wear sneakers and linen shorts for a picnic on a hilltop, make sure you wear hiking shoes, hiking pants and a jacket for a picnic on a mountain top. Still, hill or mountain, make sure you don’t forget a hat and sunglasses.
Beige, butter yellow, white, blue and red. But also all the other colours in fashion for summer 2025.
slides
sandal mules
espadrilles
wedge sandals
sneakers.
Keep in mind you might want to take your shoes the moment you lay your picnic blanket. Even so, comfortable and versatile, sneakers are a good choice for a summer picnic. Especially for a mountain/hilltop picnic. Opt for a pair that offers good traction and support, ensuring you can navigate any uneven terrain with ease. For those seeking a touch of elegance without sacrificing comfort, black espadrilles are an ideal option. They provide a chic touch to your outfit while allowing you to move freely. If you prefer a more sophisticated yet simple look, leather slides are a fantastic choice. They offer a blend of comfort and quiet luxury, making them suitable for a summer picnic on the beach or grass.
With fashionable sunglasses, trendy hat or a stylish headband.
– long floral dress with wedge sandals
– short sleeve linen dress with strappy sandals and a matching bucket hat
– linen set with shorts and crop top with flat mules and wide-brim hat
– red puff sleeve short dress with cowboy boots and pearl hair pin
– blue gingham picnic dress with basque waist and flat espadrilles with ankle ties
– one shoulder bikini top and linen shorts with a belt and slide flats
– linen set with slides
– pink windbreaker with black leggings and Salomon shoes
MORE SUMMER OUTFITS 2025 YOU CAN WEAR TO A DATE
*What outfit is your favourite? We created a special group to discuss about summer picnic outfits. Comment here. Or justexpress your feelings 🤍 🛒 😶🌫️🤭 here.
While picnics are undoubtedly delightful, there’s a certain allure in heading out for a charming restaurant dinner, wouldn’tyou agree? If you’ve been longing for those restaurant outings, I’ve got you covered with my personal picks for enchanting summer date outfits for the city. Up next: fall picnic outfits.