🧺 National Picnic Month: The Ultimate Checklist for a Stylish Summer Picnic in NYC

🧺 National Picnic Month: The Ultimate Checklist for a Stylish Summer Picnic in NYC

National Picnic Month, and you already know NYC is the perfect backdrop — Prospect Park, Central Park, Randall’s Island… wherever you go, it’s about good vibes, great company, and showing up with intention.

But a fire picnic is more than just sandwiches and a blanket. It’s about comfort, style, and care — for your crew and your look. So whether you’re planning a romantic rooftop sunset, a Sunday cookout in the park, or a low-key solo vibe, here’s everything you need to pack (and the Black-owned or culture-driven brands to pack it with).


😎 1. CIK Eyewear – Because Sun Protection = Style

You already knew this was first. A true picnic calls for shade — not just under the trees, but on your face. CIK frames bring the edge, the statement, and that UV protection you need to stay fly all afternoon.

🕶 Try:

  • Barbados – For bold, sunny energy

  • American Black Edition – For a clean, city-chic picnic vibe

👉 [Shop CIK Eyewear] — and make your picnic photos hit different.


🍽️ 2. A Fire Blanket + Cute Tableware

Laying the foundation is key. You want something soft, easy to fold, and worthy of an IG snap.

✔️ Brands to check:

  • Estelle Colored Glass – Elegant drinkware to elevate the spread

  • Karibe – Black-owned cookware (great for prep and serving)

  • XN Studio – African-inspired picnic blankets and textiles

  • Kintu New York – Luxury leather & canvas carry-all bags


🍑 3. Drinks & Snacks That Match the Mood

Whether you're sipping mocktails or mimosas, snack smart. You want light, fresh, and packable.

🥂 Sip-worthy options:

  • McBride Sisters – Black women–owned wine label with canned rosé and spritzers

  • Golde – Superfood wellness powders (add to sparkling water or smoothies)

  • Partake Foods – Vegan, gluten-free cookies and snacks that actually taste good


🎵 4. Vibe Carriers: Speakers, Cards & Candles

A picnic with no playlist is just a lunch break. Set the tone with portable vibes that travel well.

📦 Pack:

  • House of Marley – Eco-conscious portable speakers with clean sound

  • Uno or Black Card Revoked – Keep the group laughing

  • FORVR Mood by Jackie Aina – Travel candles to keep things sensual post-sunset


👗 5. Fit Check: Light Layers + Easy Style

A picnic fit is about movement, texture, and temperature control. Lightweight, breathable, but still photo-ready.

👕 Brands to rock:

  • Daily Paper – For cultural streetwear done right

  • Melody Ehsani – Edgy, bold, and statement-making

  • TOVE or Hanifa – For the ladies: flowy, confident, and sun-kissed perfect

Bonus: Add subtle jewelry (like from Omi Woods or Jaxxon) to finish the look.


Final Word: Keep It Chill, Keep It You

National Picnic Month is more than just food on the grass — it’s a moment to unplug, slow down, and show up. So pack with purpose. Style your space. And most importantly?

Wear your CIK Eyewear and own the sun. 😎
Your picnic is your runway. Treat it like one.

👉 [Shop Our Summer Collection] – Let’s take outside to the next level.


Back to blog