Nik Bentel's New York Picnic Series Packs Friendly Big Apple Meals

Turning standard checkered picnic cloths into a jumbo-sized “I Heart NY” T-shirt commonly sold by street vendors.

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American artist Nik Bentel has become synonymous with whimsical designs that require a second glance. Bentel’s out-of-the-box thinking has gained him endless praise, transforming everyday objects into wearable art pieces.

After turning manila folders and shipping boxes into vegan leather bags, the NYC-based designer embraces his home ground through a New York Picnic Series. Bentel’s new collection delivers surreal objects to make outdoor meals easier, taking inspiration from NYC picnics with friends. The series reimagines classic picnic blankets, turning standard checkered cloths into a jumbo-sized “I Heart NY” T-shirt commonly sold by street vendors.

Bentel lays his tee on the grass, carrying hot dogs, pizzas, and soda bottles in custom leather accessories. The bags are molded into common food shapes, allowing for American staples to be taken on the go. Bentel’s Pizza bag holds a large NYC slice with buckle fastenings for secure storage, paying tribute to local food carts with dual-strapped hot dog and condiment holders.

Take a closer look at Nik Bentel’s New York Picnic Series in the gallery above.

In other news, Soulland SS24 balances flamboyance and elegance in ‘Barbie’ pink.

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Andrea Sacal Editor

Andrea Sacal is a fashion journalist and social media curator who entered the industry in 2021, serving as an editor across Hypebeast's LATAM and UK platforms for over four years. She oversees Latin American socials and aims to highlight emerging and established brands, artists, and creatives contributing to the region. Andrea also focuses on Fashion Month and frequently covers Paris Fashion Week for Hypebeast's global channels.

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