Picnic Dress

Celestia Radcliffe
13 min readMar 16, 2024

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Picnics are a quintessential summer activity, and what better way to enjoy the outdoors than by wearing a dress that perfectly suits the occasion? In this article, we’ve rounded up the top Picnic Dresses that are both stylish and comfortable, ensuring you’ll look and feel fantastic at your next al fresco gathering. Get ready to make a statement with these must-have dresses!

The Top 8 Best Picnic Dress

  1. Flowy Empire Waist Picnic Dress — The Fessceruna Womens Summer Ruffle Dress boasts a flattering A-line silhouette, perfect for casual summer gatherings like picnics, with a soft, comfortable blend of polyester and rayon.
  2. Charming Check Picnic Dress — Brighten up any picnic or event with the Sam Edelman Picnic Check A-Line Minidress, featuring bold checks, flattering cutaway shoulders, and a defined waist tie.
  3. Women’s Woven Smocked Midi Picnic Dress — Experience effortless style and grace with Cupshe’s Coco Smocked Tiered Flounce Midi Dress — a perfect choice for any casual occasion or picnic outing!
  4. Vintage 1950s Swing Party Dress — Casual to Formal — Experience a perfect blend of comfort and style with the IHOT Vintage Tea Dress, featuring a flattering flared silhouette, floral patterns, and a timeless design that’s perfect for any occasion.
  5. Sun Kissed Seaside Picnic Dress — Experience a seamless blend of comfort and style with the Prana Lata Beach Dress — a versatile summertime essential perfect for beachside picnics and sun-soaked adventures.
  6. Vintage Spring Garden Picnic Cocktail Dress — Bring vintage style to your next event with the versatile, comfortable, and floral-print OWIN Womens Floral Spring Garden Picnic Dress!
  7. Floral Button Down Swing Dress for Outdoor Events — Elevate your summer wardrobe with AOX Women’s casual, versatile shift dress that combines comfort and fashion, making it perfect for picnics and various occasions!
  8. Stylish Navy Foiled Floral Party Dress — Bring elegance to your picnics with Iris & Ivy’s Foiled Floral Tiered Party Dress in Navy, featuring a round neckline, tiered mesh skirt, and a lovely front bow. Hand wash and line dry for long-lasting enjoyment.

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Reviews

🔗Flowy Empire Waist Picnic Dress

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I recently discovered the Fessceruna Womens Summer Ruffle Dress, and I must say, it’s become a staple in my wardrobe. The combination of polyester and rayon makes it both comfortable and lightweight, perfect for those warmer months.

One of the standout features is the cute mini dress design, which offers a relaxed, smocked elastic top. The empire waist and flattering A-line shape are great for petite girls, elongating the bottom half to create an illusion of longer legs.

However, there are a couple of downsides to this dress. Care instructions recommend hand or machine washing, and I found it a bit disappointing that I couldn’t just toss it in the washing machine. Additionally, I wish there were more color options available.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fessceruna Womens Summer Ruffle Dress has easily become one of my go-to outfits for various occasions, from casual beach days to special events like parties and weddings. I’d highly recommend giving it a try!

🔗Charming Check Picnic Dress

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I recently purchased the Sam Edelman Picnic Check A-Line Minidress in a stunning combination of white and pink. As a fashion enthusiast, I couldn’t resist the cheerful checks and the playful cutaway shoulders. The defining waist tie added an extra touch of elegance. I decided to wear it this past weekend at a picnic with friends, and I must say, it captured everyone’s attention with its colorful, whimsical charm.

The best part about this dress is how lightweight the material is. It was perfect for a warm summer day, keeping me comfortable even in the heat. The halter-style top was very flattering, and I loved how it complemented my figure. However, I did notice that the waistline could have been a bit more adjustable, as it was a bit too tight when I wore it.

Overall, the Sam Edelman Picnic Check A-Line Minidress was a fantastic addition to my summer wardrobe. Its playful design and comfortable material made it the ideal choice for any sunny occasion. If any adjustments can be made to the fit, it would be perfect for any fashionista looking for a fun, flirty, and eye-catching dress.

🔗Women’s Woven Smocked Midi Picnic Dress

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I recently came across the Cupshe Coco Smocked Tiered Flounce Midi Dress in brown, and I must say it stole my heart at first sight. With its A-line silhouette and flattering smocked bodice, it exudes a charming elegance perfect for both casual and special occasions. The long bishop sleeves and tiered flounce hem add an extra touch of femininity to the design.

Made of 100% polyester, it’s comfortable to wear even in different weather conditions. However, the material is quite lightweight, which some might find disappointing. Nevertheless, overall, I’m quite pleased with this dress.

It’s a beautiful addition to my wardrobe that can easily take my outfit from average to fabulous with just a single wear. It’s like having a stylish chameleon in my closet that complements any situation! .

🔗Vintage 1950s Swing Party Dress — Casual to Formal

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I recently had the pleasure of trying on the IHOT Vintage Tea Dress, a beautiful floral number that reminded me of days gone by. With its 95% cotton and 5% spandex blend, I found the material to be soft and comfortable, making me feel like I was wearing my favorite pajamas. The dress had a scoop neck and no sleeves, perfect for warm summer days.

The vintage 1950’s cutting of the dress was a true throwback. I felt like I was channeling Audrey Hepburn as I twirled in the flared skirt, flashing a peek at the concealed zipper at the back. It’s a versatile piece that works for various occasions, from casual picnics to more formal parties.

However, one downside I found was that the dress might be a bit wrinkly upon arrival. A little line drying and a low iron helped to smooth things out. All in all, I had a great experience with the IHOT Vintage Tea Dress, and it’s a timeless piece you should consider adding to your wardrobe.

🔗Sun Kissed Seaside Picnic Dress

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In my search for the perfect beach dress, I stumbled upon the Prana Lata Beach Dress, and oh boy, I couldn’t have been happier with my purchase! The scoop neck strap design is not only flattering but also super comfortable, and the twisted back detail elevates the style game. The full skirt adds a playful touch, perfect for those hot summer days or a lazy picnic in the park.

However, as with any product, there’s always a bit of give and take. While I loved the built-in shelf bra with removable cups, some users found it a bit bulky and not as flattering as they had hoped. And, as mentioned in some reviews, the material was a bit thin, making the dress slightly see-through at times, which was a bummer. Despite these minor setbacks, I’d still recommend this beach dress for those who love the laid-back beach vibe and are looking for a stylish, versatile piece to add to their summer wardrobe.

🔗Vintage Spring Garden Picnic Cocktail Dress

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I was excited to try out the OWIN floral spring garden picnic dress, perfect for those casual outdoor occasions. The material, made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex, was both comfortable and elastic, making it easy to move around in. The sleeveless style and scoop neck gave it a vintage feel, which I loved.

Now, even though it’s advertised for more formal occasions, I felt that it was too eye-catching to not wear it for casual get-togethers. The floral print was quite a statement, plus I loved the lace contrast detailing. The zipper closure and the knee-length length made it an even more attractive choice.

However, when I first wore the dress, it did arrive with a few wrinkles. But fret not, with a bit of love and ironing, it soon regained its shape. The sizing was surprisingly accurate, but just remember to allow for slight differences due to the handmade nature of the dress.

Overall, the OWIN dress was a fun and feminine addition to my wardrobe. While it’s not strictly for casual picnics, its versatility and flair make it a great choice for a wide range of occasions.

🔗Floral Button Down Swing Dress for Outdoor Events

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I recently discovered the AOX Women Button Down Shift Swing Dress. It quickly became my go-to dress for summer gatherings and casual outings alike! The dress is made of a stretchy and lightweight material that is both comfortable and breathable. It’s perfect for different occasions, from a night out with friends to a wedding guest appearance.

One of the standout features of this dress is its adjustable waist strap, which makes it a great fit for various body sizes. The irregular length of the dress paired with the elastic cuff adds to its unique charm. The lantern sleeve and A-line design give it a flattering fit, while the empire waist and ruffle sleeve add a touch of elegance.

Despite being a versatile dress, it’s not ideal for winter outdoor events or water-related activities. However, this minor drawback doesn’t outweigh the positives of this dress. Overall, the AOX Women Button Down Shift Swing Dress is a fun and practical addition to any wardrobe, especially for summer getaways and special occasions.

🔗Stylish Navy Foiled Floral Party Dress

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I recently stumbled upon the Iris & Ivy Foiled Floral Tiered Party Dress in Navy from Bonnie Jean. This vibrant dress caught my eye right away, and I knew it would be perfect for my friend’s picnic party.

The first thing that stood out to me was the beautiful foiled floral print on this dress. The design is eye-catching and adds a touch of elegance to the outfit. It’s truly a head-turner, and I received many compliments on it.

The round neckline and sleeveless design make it comfortable for a casual outdoor setting. The front bow adds a feminine touch, and the tiered mesh skirt is a lovely touch for added movement.

Unfortunately, I did have a minor issue with the back zip closure. It took a bit of effort to zip up, and the zipper sometimes got stuck. But overall, it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the dress or the party.

Despite the small zipper issue, I was happy with the overall look and feel of the Iris & Ivy Foiled Floral Tiered Party Dress in Navy. It’s an excellent option for outdoor events and will surely make you stand out for all the right reasons.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for Picnic Dresses. Here, we will discuss the essential features to consider and general advice for finding the perfect Picnic Dress to enjoy the sunshine and warmth of a lovely outdoor gathering. Let’s dive in!

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Comfort and Breathability

A key factor in selecting a picnic dress is its comfort and breathability. As you’ll likely be wearing it outdoors, it’s crucial that the material allows air to circulate, keeping you cool and dry in the sun. Opt for lightweight breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon to ensure maximum comfort throughout the day.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is a vital aspect of any outdoor outfit, and your Picnic Dress is no exception. Look for styles with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Many picnic dresses come with UPF ratings, so make sure to check the label before making your purchase.

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Ease of Movement

You’ll want a Picnic Dress that allows ease of movement, especially if you plan on engaging in activities like dancing, playing lawn games, or exploring your surroundings. Choose dresses made from stretchy or relaxed fabrics that won’t restrict your range of motion. Additionally, consider styles with loose-fitting silhouettes or adjustable waistbands for optimal comfort and mobility.

Versatility

A versatile Picnic Dress can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making it a wise investment for your wardrobe. Look for dresses that can be worn with sandals for a casual picnic vibe or paired with heels for a more formal event. Pay attention to the dress’s color palette, as neutral tones like white, beige, or pastel shades tend to be more versatile than bright or patterned options.

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FAQ

What is a Picnic Dress?

A Picnic Dress is a type of dress designed specifically for outdoor activities, such as having a picnic, hiking, or spending a day at the beach. These dresses are typically made of lightweight, breathable fabric that allows for comfort and ease of movement. They often feature fun, bright patterns and designs that are perfect for a sunny day outdoors.

Picnic dresses generally have short sleeves and knee-length hemlines, making them ideal for warmer weather. Some styles may also include built-in sun protection, such as UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) fabric, to protect against harmful UV rays. Overall, a picnic dress is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a stylish and practical outfit for their next outdoor adventure.

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How do I choose the right Picnic Dress for me?

When selecting a picnic dress, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure that you find the perfect style and fit for your needs. First, think about the activities you plan to wear the dress for. If you’ll be hiking or spending time in the water, look for a dress made of quick-drying, water-resistant fabric. For a relaxing picnic, choose a dress with a comfortable, flowy silhouette and a flattering cut.

Next, consider the color and pattern of the dress. Bright, bold prints are popular choices for picnic dresses, but if you prefer a more subdued look, opt for a solid color or a subtle pattern. Make sure the dress is available in your preferred size and that it has adjustable straps or a tie waist to ensure the best possible fit.

What are some popular brands for Picnic Dresses?

There are many popular brands that offer picnic dresses, making it easy to find a style that suits your personal taste and preferences. Some of the most well-known brands include Anthropologie, Free People, and J. Crew. These brands often feature unique, eye-catching designs that are perfect for outdoor events. Other popular brands include Lilly Pulitzer, Vera Bradley, and Seersucker, which are known for their bright, colorful prints and classic, preppy aesthetic.

When shopping for a picnic dress, be sure to check out the brands that specialize in outdoor wear, such as Patagonia or Columbia. These brands often offer dresses with built-in sun protection and other features designed specifically for outdoor activities. By exploring the offerings from various brands, you’re sure to find the perfect picnic dress for your next adventure.

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Can I wear a Picnic Dress to other events besides outdoor activities?

While picnic dresses are designed with outdoor activities in mind, they can also be dressed up or down to suit a variety of occasions. For a casual look, pair your picnic dress with sandals or flip-flops and a straw hat for a laid-back, beachy vibe. For a slightly more dressed-up look, try pairing your dress with wedges or flats and a statement necklace or bracelet.

If you’re attending a wedding or other formal event, you can accessorize your picnic dress with heels or ballerina flats, a clutch or handbag, and statement jewelry. Just be sure to choose a dress in a color and style that complements the overall theme and dress code of the event. With the right accessories and styling, your picnic dress can easily transition from an outdoor adventure to a sophisticated soiree.

How do I care for my Picnic Dress?

Caring for your picnic dress is important to ensure that it maintains its quality and stays looking its best. First, make sure to read the care label on your dress to determine the recommended washing instructions. Most picnic dresses can be machine washed in cold water with a mild detergent, but be sure to check the label before washing.

When drying your picnic dress, avoid using a high heat setting, as this can cause the fabric to shrink or become damaged. Instead, opt for a low heat setting or air-dry your dress. To help preserve the color and vibrancy of your dress, consider washing it separately or with other like-colored items to prevent color bleeding. By following these simple care instructions, your picnic dress will stay looking great for many adventures to come.

Are there any eco-friendly options for Picnic Dresses?

Yes, there are eco-friendly options available for picnic dresses. Many brands now offer dresses made from sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. These materials are naturally renewable and help to reduce the environmental impact of clothing production. Additionally, some brands use eco-friendly dyes and production methods to minimize their impact on the environment.

When shopping for an eco-friendly picnic dress, look for brands that are committed to sustainable practices and use environmentally friendly materials in their clothing line. Some popular eco-friendly brands include Patagonia, Everlane, and Stella McCartney. By choosing an eco-friendly picnic dress, you can enjoy a stylish and practical outfit while also supporting sustainable fashion practices.

As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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