Since lots of socializing with friends and family is happening outdoors right now – whether in a park or in our own backyards – now is the moment for a luxury upgrade of that dependable standby, the picnic blanket. Our correspondent Jillian Tangen has curated a list of the best luxury outdoor picnic blankets to buy right now. These would be wonderful host or hostess gifts, too, by the way! They’re practical and pretty – and picnic-perfect.
A luxurious outdoor blanket is a summer must-have
The cornerstone of any good picnic besides delectable cuisine and good friends or family? A cozy picnic blanket, of course. Sure, a classic wicker basket is adorable and yes, bluetooth speakers and portable grills are nice to have too.
But a soft, comfortable and durable blanket onto which you can spread out your outdoor feast, not to mention your legs? That’s a no brainer.
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And while a classic red and white gingham sheet may look good for the ‘gram, a proper picnic requires something as pretty as it is practical. That means luxury picnic blanket options like waterproof materials, cozy fabrics and secret pockets to stow away your phone, face mask and keys. To help you pick the right one for your next alfresco feast, we’ve found 12 of the very best luxurious picnic blankets that you can buy right now.
Whether you’re after picnic rugs in a classic wool tartan, are looking to repel sand and water at the beach or are in need of an extra large option to fit the entire extended family, we’ve got you and your park space covered.
Without further ado here are our 12 favorite luxury picnic blanket options, perfect for enjoying everything from your go-to summer refreshment with friends in the park to freshly picked apples with the fam at the orchard this fall.
The best luxury picnic blankets to buy right now
1. Tweedmill Pure New Wool Polo Picnic Rug
The O.G. in terms of the look of the best luxury outdoor picnic blanket has to be Anglo-inspired tartan plaid. Made from luxurious pure new wool, this tartan picnic blanket from Tweedmill comes in grey, blue and black for an enduring classic style. It also has a waterproof backing and carry handles to ensure you easily stay dry.
BUY NOW – $138
2. Sunnylife Kasbah Picnic Blanket
The picnic grass is always greener on the Sunnylife side. Lay back and relax with this Aussie brand’s colorful (and waterproof) luxury picnic blanket that folds into a flat tote for simple carrying.
BUY NOW – $65
3. Johanna Howard Deco Throw
Black home decor designer Johanna Howard collaborates with talented artisans throughout the world to make bold, graphic pillows and throws. Among our favorite designs is her versatile Deco throw that takes the bold lines and curves of an art deco graphic and matches them with amazingly soft, thick cotton chenille. And because it is machine washable, it can be used both indoors and out.
BUY NOW – $195
4. Fortnum & Mason Picnic Rug
Experts in tea time treats and alfresco dining, Fortnum & Mason knows how to make a quality picnic blanket. This one comes in wool mix material and with a protective hood in case you get caught in the rain.
BUY NOW – $98
5. Pendleton Roll-Up Camp Blanket
Grab this chic and classic picnic blanket from Pendleton and you’ll be ready for any type of outdoor event. Made in the USA, it’s composed of two separate and removable layers of virgin wool and waxed cotton for extra moisture resistance, as well as easy maintenance.
BUY NOW – $149
6. Basil Bangs Love Rug
This colorful and circular picnic blanket from Basil Bangs boasts one water-resistant side made out of a soft canvas and one heavier-duty polyester side that’s completely waterproof. It also has a carry strap and a secret pocket for storing your phone and wallet.
BUY NOW – $169
7. Citizenry Fuera Adventure Blanket
Handcrafted outside of Oaxaca in a fair-trade environment, Citizenry’s Mitla-style Mexican blanket is woven from thick durable cotton, making it the ideal companion for outdoor concerts, picnics and beach days.
BUY NOW – $95
8. Nemo Victory Blanket
Looking for a family friendly option? Nemo’s Victory Blanket has a water-resistant flannel top that is soft to the touch, but also durable enough to withstand the occasional muddy foot, shoe or paw.
BUY NOW – $130
9. Fatboy Picnic Lounge Area Blanket
This colorful Fatboy picnic style rug is sure to make a statement in the park. It comes with four oversized red pins to ensure your blanket is always secure, a brush to keep your space free of sand and even a spot in the middle to place your sun umbrella.
BUY NOW – $279
10. Sand Cloud XL Beach Blanket
Say goodbye to sand in your next seaside spread with Sand Cloud’s sand resistant and sustainably made acid wash luxury beach and picnic blanket.
BUY NOW – $64
11. Utility Canvas Quilted Throw
Among our personal fav’s is this star spangled throw from Utility Canvas. Having owned one for over 6 years now, we can attest to its durability, comfort and enduring style. If you’re going to invest in a luxury picnic blanket, this one’s an excellent option.
BUY NOW – $170
12. Gucci GG Check Wool Blanket
We end our list of the ideal luxury picnic blanket with a stunner from Italy. Elevate your afternoon in the country to the next level with this wool Gucci throw blanket. Because, well why not?
BUY NOW – $980
The best luxury picnic blanket to buy right now
There you have it, our favorite luxury outdoor picnic blankets to shop for right now. Just add good food, great friends and possibly a dash or two of sunscreen and you are good to go for the rest of the outdoor season. Happy picnicking, dear reader.
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For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter here. And see luxury in a new light.
Jillian Tangen is the Head of Research at Dandelion Chandelier and a former Senior Research Analyst at McKinsey & Co and Analyst at Shearman & Sterling. She is an avid fan of Nordic design, having owned an independent lifestyle store and sales agency focused on emerging Scandinavian design. Jillian lives in New York and is married with three young children. She loves cross-country skiing, the New York Rangers, reading, travel and discovering new brands.
Join our community
For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier newsletter. And see luxury in a new light.