8 Memorial Day Picnic Essentials
With these eight must-have items, the perfect summer picnic is within reach.
Unfurl your gingham blanket and celebrate this Memorial Day with one of the most beloved outdoor activities: a picnic. The leisurely pastime is an excellent way to coalesce with friends and family while basking in the warmer weather. In advance of Memorial Day weekend, L’OFFICIEL rounds up eight necessities, ranging from sunscreen to charcuterie boards, that will heighten your picnicking experience.
Cat-eye sunglasses are back, but not without a fun twist. Protect your eyes while getting your daily dose of vitamin D with a pair of statement sunnies, like Loewe's acetate-framed, inflated option available in five fun colors
Loewe Inflated Cat-Eye Sunglasses, $360, Saks Fifth Avenue
Stay safe under the sun while picnicking Memorial Day weekend with the latest selection of dermatologist-approved sunscreens that won’t leave you feeling greasy or goopy. Try Avène Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid, which has SPF 50 and a lightweight, matte finish (not to mention, no white cast!). For a vegan alternative that offers the same benefits, try Glossier’s Invisible Shield Daily Sunscreen, which is a chemical SPF 35 and is hailed for its makeup-friendliness and glassy sheen.
Avène Mineral Multi-Defense Sunscreen Fluid, $34, Avène
An ethereal rosy glow has emerged as a summertime makeup must. Whether it be Nars’ Orgasm X, lauded for its flattering appearance on all skin tones, or Glossier’s Cloud Paint, a gel-cream hybrid that allows those with lighter complexions to partake in the trend without seeming like they’re overdoing it, indulge in ultra-romantic flair with some rose-colored blush during your outing.
Glossier Cloud Paint in Beam, $20, Glossier
A simple yet elegant array of cheeses, produce, crackers, and meats, charcuterie has become the newfound plaything of avid foodies and picnic-goers alike. For the ultimate picnic-scape this Memorial Day weekend, don't forget to bring a cheese board to display your spread.
Acacia Wood Round Cheese Paddle, $20, Sur la Table
Nix the single-use plastic this summer and stay hydrated with reusable alternatives that are both stylish and functional. Keep cold drinks ice cold and tea and coffee hot for up to 12 hours with the Lund London Skittle Bottle, which is made of stainless steel, is BPA & PVC free, and adds a touch of dainty feminine charm to any look.
Give your locks some love and tame frizz and sweat with a silk headscarf, the summer 2023 must-have item that appears to presently have our social media feeds in a chokehold. Add a dose of simple sophistication to your look and keep your tresses combed back with a scarf like this monogram print one from Burberry.
Burberry Beige Silk Icon Stripe & Logo Scarf, $450, Ssense
Any decent picnic starts with having the right equipment — especially a Memorial Day picnic. The cornerstone of a proper picnic, a durable picnic basket eliminates the hassle of heaving food and refreshments in reusable bags, while also topping off the picnic-goer aesthetic. Invest in a handcrafted woven basket like this one from Pottery Barn, which is made with full-reed willow and comes with a set of plates, glasses, and utensils for four.
Winslow Woven Willow Picnic Basket, Set for 4, $329, Pottery Barn
Add some French ‘30s flair to your outfit with an oversized, floppy hat. The wide-brimmed, timeless accessory is the perfect way to shield yourself from the sun and look chic doing it. Say yes to playfulness with the Bella hat from Eric Javits New York, which is reminiscent of the nautical stripes from the bygone era.
Eric Javits New York Margot Straw Hat, $207, Eric Javits New York
L'OFFICIEL USA may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if products are purchased through our links.