Steal This Look: Style on a Budget, a Picnic on a Bed of Leaves

We stumbled upon this lovely autumn moment in our research. A leafy trail and moss-covered trees lead to an enchanting picnic spread, with nary a rowdy tailgater in sight. Other than scouting a beautiful spot on a clear day, what is the key to dining alfresco in October? A damp-deterrent blanket to keep your tush dry. Here’s how to set the scene:

Above: Our inspiration for an autumn picnic via Studio Reskos.

Above: The Eco Fleece Blanket Tote Set features a waterproof backing that can withstand mud and wet leaves. It’s $35 at Hay and Needle.

Above: For comfortable seating, we might repurpose a bedroll (See Sarah’s Hedge House pick on Remodelista), or bring out summer’s lounge cushions. To stick to the color palette, we found Threshold Outdoor Pillow Back Dining Cushions for $35 each, at Target.

Above: Pile on the creature comforts with a fort of pillows. These snuggle-worthy Felt Cushions are $31.25 per cover from Etsy seller Weltin Felt.

Above: In a pinch, you could jerry-rig a tabletop with some kindling and a butcher block. If you’re leaving nothing to chance, lug out your entryway furniture. Just about any low-profile bench, riser, or even coffee table (See Julie’s 12 Tables Made with Cinder Blocks on Remodelista) can do double duty. We spied a pair of beautifully weathered Milkmaid Stools from Etsy seller Rustastic. They are $42 for both.

Above: To set the mood with overhead lighting, hurricane lanterns would be the most genuine article. See Janet’s 10 Easy Pieces on the topic. On a budget, the Ikea interpretation of the classic, the Rotera is just under $4.

Above: A Linen Table Runner, $19.95 from H&M, is refined, but not fussy. Extra points, if you bring linen napkins.

Above: Beeswax candles add a romantic touch to the tablescape. Plus, they are scent- and drip-free. A Medium Pillar Candle of Pure Beeswax is $14 from Terrain.

Above: Enamelware is lightweight, reusable, and infinitely more stylish than a paper plate. A Set of Four Dinner Plates is $40 at West Elm.

Need more picnic gear? Here are Gardenista-approved Blankets and Baskets. If you’re packing for a camping trip, here’s how to furnish a Glam Campsite by Shelter Co.