Grab Your Gingham! The Picnic Core Aesthetic Is This Summer's Most Fun Fashion Trend

Why settle for a basic gingham look when you can go for a full picnic spread? I'll wait, but trust me when I say that this picnic-themed dress (featuring an array of fruits, flowers and even vino) won't stay in stock for long. So, here's what you need to know: The smocked, strapless style has an empire waist and the most adorable bow-tie back. It's also made of 100 percent cooling cotton that's perfect for hot days But perhaps even more important is the fact that the machine-washable mini is said to stay up on small and large chests alike—no, really, just peep the reviews!

Buyers are obsessed with this snack-inspired shift dress, and it's not just because the fruit-and-floral pattern looks good enough to eat. As one reviewer raves, "It flatters anyone's body shape." Between its stretchy blend of polyester and elastane and its figure-skimming fit, I don't doubt it for a minute. Of course, there's one way to find out, so I suggest adding this picnic- *and* vacation-ready style to your cart, stat.

This tiered skirt will give you a taste of what this trend brings to the table—pun intended. Just don't be surprised if you start wearing it on repeat thanks to the flattering fitted waist, convenient side pockets and breezy blend of cotton and polyester. It can even be dressed up for the office, vacation or your Valentine's date next year! Who knew gingham could be so versatile?

Ever since Jennifer Lopez signed off on gingham, fashionistas have been lining up to buy dresses in the trendy pattern. Little do they know, one of the prettiest picks is hiding at Tuckernuck for less than $150. With its effortless elastic bodice and gorgeous gathered skirt, this timeless sundress is bound to become one of your go-to pieces this summer—and the one after that, and the one after that. Want to take it to the next level? Pair it with a straw hat and raffia bag à la J.Lo and you'll be ready for a picnic in no time.

You can't have a picnic (or a picnic-inspired outfit) without a classic basket to go with it. I'm swooning over this scallop-trimmed beauty from Mark & Graham, which is made of solid and structured woven wicker and comes complete with an insertable insulated bag that'll keep all of your al fresco bites fresh on the go. The zip cooler is totally removable, though, so you can ditch it for the day if you just want to carry the basket as your handbag like French icon Jane Birkin. Très fabuleux!

Fact: Tomato girl summer walked so the picnic core aesthetic could run. And these tomato-print pants—made of lightweight linen—are proof. You can don 'em as a singular statement piece or complete the outfit with the matching top, particularly if you want to look picnic-perfect at your next summer gathering.

These "perfectly patterned" pull-on shorts deserve a spot in your summer capsule wardrobe. Why? The real question is, why not? Not only are the cute cotton boxers great for lounging thanks to their effortless and easy fit, but you can wear them for almost any outdoor occasion, whether you're actually going on a picnic or running errands around town. They're also machine-washable, so you can wear them again and again and again (and trust me, you will). 

As ideal for wine tastings in Europe as it is for brunch dates in NYC, this flowy cotton and viscose midi has high potential to become a summer fave, especially for all my maximalist girlies. Obviously, the fruity print is the main attraction, but that's not the only reason you should buy this beautifully bold style. One reviewer said that she didn't even need to wear a bra with it because the bust kept her so supported (shout-out to those adjustable crisscross straps!). In other words, this picnic-approved pick is fruit, flirty and functional.

Whether you go gingham from head to toe, or simply want to add a touch of the trend to your ensemble, you'll be glad to have these Steve Madden slides at the ready. They have a low heel that should be plenty walkable for a stroll through the park, along with the most adorable brown gingham pattern that's versatile enough to match with other neutrals. Just slip them on and go!

Yes, Target is coming through with affordable styles that nail the aesthetic, including this blue gingham blouse that can be yours for less than $25. Featuring a V-neckline, flutter sleeves, a smocked back *and* a peplum hem, it's hard not to fall in love with at first sight. I'll let one buyer tell it: "I absolutely love this shirt. The fabric is textured, and it feels really nice...I think this blouse looks elevated and more expensive than what it really costs." Want to complete the look for less than $50? Say no more. Add the matching skirt to your cart and prepare to wear this trendy fit on repeat. 

You'll be feeling peachy keen and ready for a sunny soirée in this best-selling J.Crew midi that buyers can't stop talking about. It's made of a "crisp, customer-favorite cotton poplin that's airy and lightweight with just the right amount of structure," according to the brand. It also has a square neckline, flowy skirt and smocking in the back so you can bet you'll look snatched but stay comfy. With that in mind, what more can you really ask for? (Well, besides an actual peach to snack on.)