POSH PICNIC

In the manner of Déjeuner sur l'Herbe (Claude Monet, 1865), dine al fresco in style! Gather your friends, some oozy brie, a baguette or two, and a bottle of slightly chilled Pinot Noir . . .

The proper attire is essential to the enjoyment of a lovely picnic. I would opt for a comfortable, breathable sundress, preferably knee-length, with a full skirt. Be sure to wear boyshorts underneath so you can toss a Frisbee with your pals without fear of Britney exposure! Of course, you should tuck a cashmere throw into your tote bag, along with a lightweight cardigan. The Pashmina, while no longer an appropriate fashion statement, does provide elegant warmth, either as a shoulder wrap or chic blanket.

To guide you on your quest for the perfect picnic attire, I have provided a sample outfit from Cynthia Steffe's Spring 2008 show (at right, courtesy nymag.com). I love how this sundress has pockets! See below in this CoutureCarrie post for an extensive list of the best sundress purveyors!

While Manolos would look adorable with your Milly frock, they simply aren’t practical for grass and sand. So go with a chic gold flat sandal. I just saw the most fabulous pair in the Alloy catalog for less than twenty dollars! Or try this inexpensive Urban Outifitters option, the Helena Gladiator sandal, pictured at left. If you must wear heels, a platform huarache is acceptable, but only if it’s Louboutin.

Keep your accessories low-key and practical. No one wants to go hunting for your dangly earrings in the damp grass after dark! Opt for chunky bangles (like these "exotic" bracelets at right, just $14 for a set of 6 at spiegel.com!), a simple gold chain, hoop or stud earrings . . . you get the idea.

You and your crew will also need a beach blanket. I personally LOVE a double towel, or a couple of these chic Missoni printed terry throws (photo courtesy instyle.com/shopping).


SUNDRESS GO-TO:

Calypso

Forever 21
Lauren Moffat

Lotta Stensson (yellow strapless jersey dress picured at right, available at bluefly.com)
M Missoni
Mara Hoffman
Milly

Nicole Miller (tunic at lower right, also at bluefly)

Old Navy
Rachel Pally
Rory Beca
See by Chloé
Shoshanna
Splendid
T-Bags
Tibi
Tocca

Tory Burch
Trina Turk
Vince
What Comes Around Goes Around

.

.

.

Now it’s off to the park! Bon appetit, and happy shopping!