'Let nature lead the way' – Jenni Kayne has mastered the art of the alfresco lunch, and her style advice will keep you lounging at the table long into the afternoon

Jenni Kayne is the undisputed master of modern classics, those deceptively simple staple pieces that never go out of style. From cashmere knits to tactile ceramic vessels, she knows how to set the scene for an always stylish but never overstated life.

'Hosting an outdoor dining set-up or garden party is one of the best ways you can embrace the season’s simplicity and lightness,' Jenni says. 'From curating lively tablescaping ideas to dressing yourself in the perfect host’s ensemble, there are so many ways to imbue your gathering with intention and seasonal flair.'

Where her lightness of touch really comes into its own is when she's hosting an alfresco lunch, the sort of event that starts in a shady spot under the midday sun and guests are still savoring several hours later. She knows the secrets to blending comfort with style, creating a table and ambiance that draws those around it together. A hint of gingham, a playlist from her sister Maggie, a family-style frittata, and never – or at least rarely – worrying about a tablecloth. Your seductively simple summer starts here.

Jenni Kayne on how to throw the perfect outdoor Summer lunch

One of Summer's most exquisite joys is having an alfresco lunch – what do you think the appeal of them is?

I think there’s something so special about entertaining outside. There's something about sharing a meal under the sun – surrounded by people you love – that can't be beat.

There’s more of a casual effortlessness and intimacy that comes from outdoor gatherings, which I always try to bring to life through a laid-back tabletop and seasonal menu.

I also try to make the most of my surroundings by bringing nature to the table in some way.

Would you say that there is an art to the perfect alfresco lunch?

Let nature lead the way! Don’t overthink it – bring in touches to your surroundings to make it feel extra special and relaxed. Small touches of seasonality easily bring a table to life, giving it a refined feeling. Don’t feel limited to only using flowers to decorate your table – using produce is a great way to bring life, color, and freshness to your spring tablescape.

What sort of serveware would you use?

I use our Pacific Dinnerware outside, or if I want something that won’t break I’ll use enamel plates from Crow Canyon. Then, I’ll add Sabre flatware throughout the table and to serve. I have almost every color – they’re the perfect look to add to any table. These pieces are as functional as they are elegant, no matter the season.

To complete your setting, try a colorful linen or napkin for a quick pop of color that instantly brightens the table.

It can take a lot of work to make a lunch feel relaxed! How formal is your table setting?

Comfort is just as important as presentation. The more casual, the better. If I want a more rustic look, I’ll go sans tablecloth – but our Jenni Kayne Home linen tablecloths are always at the ready to help tie the scene together.

We have picnic tables and benches in our yard, which I think are the best for alfresco entertaining because they allow you to embrace the easygoing nature of it all. Then take a deep breath and settle in – welcome to the long, languorous lunch of your summer dreams.

What do you like to dress the table with?

I always think it’s fun to add a dash of color with napkins. I’ve been really into yellow and green – even adding in some gingham prints or simple stripes. Beyond that, I keep it simple and let any touches of nature and the food itself shine.

Of course, food has to be a key ingredient for a lunch. What do you tend to serve?

I love to serve everything family style. It gives the entire gathering an elevated feel, but as a host, it’s totally no-fuss. I’ll prepare a few dishes ahead of time – like a salad, veggies, and something simple like a frittata – and get some wine ready to serve. That way, when guests arrive, I’m able to partake in the fun.

And are there any extras you might include? Who gets to be in charge of the music?

Music is a must, always. My sister, Maggie, makes the best playlists. I always have something of hers on while I’m hosting.

Would you give guests anything to take away with them as they leave?

I recently went to an alfresco lunch at Thorne Family Farms in Malibu, and to wrap up the day, guests got to select fresh produce from the Thorne Family Farms Market – including fresh strawberries, lettuce, potatoes, broccoli, and so much more.

To tie it all together, they received spring floral bundles and woven raffia to carry everything home – and remember the day by.

How to recreate Jenni Kayne's deceptively simple alfresco lunch approach

Jenni's table works because it looks simple – it encourages guests not to stand on ceremony but to sit down, grab a fork, and dig in. The lack of starched linens, the addition of casually tied napkin knots, and a table runner of vegetables that look more hand-thrown than curated create a moment of theatre that also invites involvement. Guests can literally eat the display.

To recreate this sense of easy bonhomie, stick to a simple palette of natural textures and neutral colors. Shop the selection below, and try to strip back as many layers as possible. As Jenni says, all you really need is good weather, good friends and good food and the rest is just extra dressing.

Shop the full range from Jenni Kayne and Jenni Kayne Home here