With spring officially upon us (at least here in the South it is) I’ve packed up all my winter clothes, filled my closest with bright, sunny essentials, pulled my bicycle down from storage and shined her up so she’s ready for a ride.  In the spring before the pollen is in full effect and before it hits 100+ temperatures one of my favorite things to do with my family is pack a picnic, and go to the farmers market in the park.  

Stopping by the farmers market first always allows me to pick up fresh flowers (because who can resist a bouquet of beautiful blooms, especially if they’re local?!) and all of the pastries my basket can carry!  We lay out a blanket and lie there for hours catching up on what’s transpired the week before and I usually pack a salad along with something easy to nosh on like homemade pimento cheese.  But today is not a story on packing a picnic (that is coming Monday), today I wanted to talk about those spring essentials that are filling my closet; because planning your picnic outfit is just as fun as the picnic itself.  

I surprisingly love to wear a sundress if we’re picnicking; it’s effortless and easy, always breathable, fun to move in, and all around a great look.  This sleeveless dress from J.McLaughlin was calling my name from the second I scrolled by.  I love the juxtaposition of the punchy pink with the graphic snake skin pattern; it’s the perfect balance of feminine with a little edge and honestly it’s one of the most comfortable dresses I own.  Since the weather is still a bit fickle here, a light jacket on top was a must and is always a spring/summer wardrobe essential.  White denim keeps things light, and is there anything better than a bright, crisp white piece of clothing?  Plus it’s always classic design make it a no-brainer when you’re layering during these warm-and-cold days.  

Anytime I’m outside in the sun, I have a hat with me; panama, wool floppy, fedora…you name it, year ’round a hat is an always essential for me.  I picked up this panama hat last year from J.McLaughlin, and I still bring it on every picnic (and vacay).  Panama hats tend to lose their shape, but not this one and trust me when I say it’s been on plenty a trip.  

Last year J.McLaughlin also launched sunnies and I’m so glad they did.  I’ve opted for these classic tortoise ones, but I’ve got my eye on these blue aviators as well.  And since more is always more with accessories in my humble opinion, I snagged this gorgeous floral scarf to give my outfit that extra pop.  Plus I love how a scarf this size can double as a light throw in case there’s a chill in the air.  Lastly, how great is this basket-weave bucket bag?! If that doesn’t get you in the mood for springtime picnics, I don’t know what will!  

So there you have it, spring time essentials from J.McLaughlin, (which honestly has been a constant in my life with each change of season), and a bicycle chalked full of flowers; if this doesn’t get you excited for warmer weather I don’t know what will!  Happy Friday friends!  Truly, MKR

P.S. On Monday I’ll be sharing a few tips on just how to execute a great picnic plus sharing my easy breezy recipe for homemade pimento cheese and great, portable Mason Jar salads.