The hottest trend straight from the Spring/Summer 2012 runways isn’t what you might expect. Sure, there was colour blocking, pyjama dressing and peplum—but did you know that the well-heeled set is flocking to the picnic? That’s right, the picnic. Forget cocktail parties and fancy soirées—right now the most fashionable social event is the kind that happens en plein air, on a red and white gingham blanket, with a basket of artisanal sandwiches and a bottle of Veuve. In that spirit, here is our round-up of top tips for creating a stylish picnic that even Anna Wintour would enjoy.

Stylish picnic tip: Dress the part
Take your cues from DSquared2’s festival-inspired Spring/Summer 2012 collection. Channel Kate Moss at Coachella in a pair of knee high wellies, a button-down plaid shirt, denim cut-offs and a bad-girl leather moto jacket. Or, layer a rocker t-shirt over your favourite ’60s-inspired maxi for the ultimate hippie-cool effect.

Not a fan of the boho look? Try a ladylike sundress. We’re partial to Erdem’s structured florals or one of Prada’s pleated frocks in an on-trend pastel colour.

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Dolce & Gabbana, Spring/Summer 2012. Image courtesy of ImaxTree.com

Stylish picnic tip: Consider picnic-inspired fare.
Eating veggies is so last season—now, it’s all about wearing them. Check out Salvatore Ferragamo’s tomato-print blouse or Missoni’s chili pepper earrings. Don’t be afraid to try one of Dolce & Gabbana’s pumpkin or eggplant prints (seen above). Spring/Summer 2012 is all about having fun with food.

Stylish picnic tip: Accessorize!
Why not sport one of Hermès’ jaunty colour-blocked neck flasks? If you’re feeling practical, you can fill it with good old H2O to keep hydrated in the sun. Feeling naughty? Spike your lemonade with something a little stronger.

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Hermès, Spring/Summer 2012. Image courtesy of ImaxTree.com

Sure, everyone can take photos on their smartphone but isn’t it more romantic to use an old fashioned camera with real film? Proenza Schouler thinks so too—they showed vintage-inspired camera cases on their Spring/Summer 2012 runway.

Read more of our stylish picnic tips on the next page…

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Ralph Lauren, Spring/Summer 2012. Image courtesy of ImaxTree.com

Stylish picnic tip: Upgrade your picnic basket.
Carry your picnic supplies in one of Ralph Lauren’s chic embroidered wicker picnic baskets, or try a leather lunchbox handbag from Marc by Marc Jacobs. The best part? Once the picnic is over, model your fashion-forward accessories at any runway show to make the street style snappers go wild.

Stylish picnic tip: Scout a beautiful location
We’re partial to boardwalk picnics ourselves, so if you’re in Toronto why not claim a picnic blanket at Cherry Beach? Hint: If your afternoon party lasts into the night take advantage of Cherry Beach’s Saturday night drive-in. Other amazing picnic spots? Stanley Park in Vancouver and Parc du Mont Royal in Montreal.

Stylish picnic tip: Get inspired
Look for inspiration
in classic movies, like the aptly named 1955 film Picnic, starring the inimitable Kim Novak and William Holden. Or, check out Manet’s oil on canvas painting of perhaps the most famous picnic ever: Le déjeuner sur l’herbe.

Stylish picnic tip: Forget about your diet!
Eat all the things you usually deprive yourself of—this includes crusty baguette and triple crème brie, chocolate cupcakes and French macarons. Throw in some fresh strawberries for good measure. Don’t forget the bubbly!

Read more:
Summer 2012: How to host an stylish tea party
Spring/Summer 2012: Trend report

Fashion tips: How to wear pastels for Spring
Spring fashion: Top 7 colour trends