Fashion Law Journal
Fashion is a constantly evolving field, always introducing something new. Recent shifts have led to exciting trends, sparking enthusiasm among people. Collaborations between different industries create unique styles. “Two brands, one slay.” Experimental fashion encourages creativity and self-expression. These trends make fashion more dynamic, offering new avenues for personal style and excitement.
Fashion’s a whirlwind, a constant evolution! In which some brand collaborations are just plain weird! But that’s often what makes them so memorable and buzzworthy. It’s when brands step outside their comfort zones and do the unexpected that things get really interesting.
Here are a few examples of collaborations that raised eyebrows and got people talking:
1.Christian Cowan x Teletubbies
“The collab you didn’t know you needed,” London designer Christian Cowan has collaborated with the iconic children’s show “Teletubbies” to create an exclusive capsule collection featuring apparel and shoes inspired by the lovable characters in classic styles.A standout of the multi-piece collection are the neon green pointed-toe boots inspired by the look of Dipsy, one of the cutesie main characters in the show.[1]
Teletubbies are experiencing a surprising revival, driven by unexpected fashion collaborations. Designer Christian Cowan’s capsule collection, featuring a Dipsy-themed high-heel boot, exemplifies this trend. This isn’t the first time the show has inspired fashion, highlighting its enduring influence. The Teletubbies’ massive commercial success, including over $1 billion in merchandise sales, underscores their popularity. WildBrain’s strategy to re-introduce the characters through pop culture partnerships, including LGBTQ+ pride collaborations, is key to this resurgence. While the show’s visuals are both iconic and, to some, unsettling, and despite concerns about reboots stifling creativity, the Teletubbies’ nostalgic appeal ensures their continued presence in popular culture.[2]
2.Crocs X Balenciaga
If not for Demna Gvasalia and Balenciaga, who would have made Crocs look like they belong to high fashion?
You may ask what are these? Are they Crocs? Are they stilettos? Well, they are all of them. They’re made of that signature squishy foam material and come in both black and bright green, the perfect range of colours for when you want a subtle or a dramatic entrance. Crocs are super-popular right now and Balenciaga knows it.Balenciaga’s creative director Demna Gvasalia wowed the fashion crowd with his high-heeled Crocs – well, this time it’s a pair of stilettos. Of course, there is a pair of Crocs for almost every occasion – from street fashion to even, red carpet moments[3]
- Louis Vuitton x Supreme
This collaboration in 2017 marked a significant moment, merging the Parisian luxury of Louis Vuitton with the edgy streetwear vibe of Supreme. It included a variety of products, from clothing and accessories to luggage, all featuring the iconic LV monogram alongside Supreme’s box logo.
This partnership exemplifies the merging of high fashion and streetwear. Luxury brands are increasingly tapping into streetwear’s cultural relevance and youthful audience, while streetwear labels gain prestige and broader reach through collaborations with established fashion houses.
Both brands excel at generating hype and offering limited-edition releases, which boosts demand and resale value. This approach enhances desirability and positions the collaboration as essential for fashion aficionados.
- Balenciaga X Simpsons
In 2021, Balenciaga showcased a unique segment during their Paris Fashion Week show featuring characters from The Simpsons strutting down the runway in Balenciaga’s latest designs.
The fashion industry is increasingly blending with pop culture. Collaborations with television shows, films, and even internet memes enable brands to engage with established fanbases and create moments that go viral.
Known for its avant-garde and sometimes provocative designs, Balenciaga displayed a playful side through this collaboration. It allows brands to adopt a lighter approach and connect with a broader audience.
- Balmain X Evian Water
Balmain has teamed up with Evian to create limited-edition water bottles adorned with designs that embody Balmain’s luxurious and intricate style.
This partnership expands the brand’s reach beyond just clothing. By linking with everyday items like water, Balmain strengthens its identity as a luxury lifestyle brand.
Many collaborations now emphasize sustainability, highlighting the importance of reusable or recyclable products.
- Xbox x Gucci:
In 2021, Gucci collaborated with Xbox to launch a limited-edition console and accessories, merging high fashion with gaming culture. As gaming becomes increasingly mainstream, luxury brands are starting to explore this market. This collaboration targets affluent gamers seeking unique products.This reflects the trend of brands from different sectors collaborating, generating buzz and reaching new audiences
- Crocs x KFC
This quirky collaboration resulted in Crocs with a KFC-themed design, including chicken-scented Jibbitz charms.
This collaboration is all about fun and generating social media buzz. It’s a way for brands to create a memorable and shareable product.
Crocs has successfully positioned itself as a brand that’s open to unexpected and playful collaborations, which has contributed to its resurgence in popularity.
- Oscar Mayer X Seoul Mamas
Oscar Mayer partnered with Seoul Mamas to create a bologna-inspired face mask. The masks were designed to be a playful take on the childhood memory of making masks out of bologna. The product serves as a homage to the kids who would bite holes in the cold cut to create eyes and a mouth.
- Dolce & Gabana X Smeg
Dolce & Gabbana and Smeg have collaborated on several collections of small kitchen appliances, including toasters, coffee machines, and blenders. The collections are inspired by Sicilian traditions and the heritage of Dolce & Gabbana designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. [4]
This collection was first presented at Milan Design Week in 2017. It features small appliances decorated with Sicilian folklore, including lemons, prickly pears, and cherries.
This collection is inspired by the colors of the sea and features Mediterranean-inspired artwork. [5]
This collection features pattern-heavy pieces inspired by Sicily, including a Victoria range cooker, extractor hood, and FAB28 fridge.
- Cheetos X Forever 21
You never knew You needed a completely Cheeto-themed clothing arsenal until Forever 21 x Cheetos collection has proven you completely wrong collaborating to make the ultimate capsule collection for summer.[6]The Cheetos x Forever 21 collaboration was a capsule collection of clothing that celebrated the Cheetos brand. The collection included playful statement pieces that brought the “Cheetos Look” to life. [7]
Limited-edition apparel collection is available from the chain that includes swimsuits, sweatshirts, T-shirts, dresses and other gear printed with images, colors and logos connected to Cheetos Crunchy and Cheetos Flamin’ Hot snacks.[8]
The Cheetos x Forever 21 collaboration had retail sales of $1.24 million. The collaboration also included: 550 million media impressions and $11 million earned media value. [9]
Author: Kanishka Nayak
[1] Ayoud, Amina. “Christian Cowan Launches $2,500 Teletubbies Boots & Apparel Collection.” Footwear News, March 15, 2023. https://footwearnews.com/fashion/collaborations/christian-cowan-teletubbies-boots-collection-cartoon-1203431380/.
[2] “They Had Us at Eh Oh: The Surprise Staying Power of Teletubbies.” The Guardian, April 13, 2023. https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2023/apr/13/teletubbies-fashion-christian-cowan-netflix.
[3] “Netizens Can’t Look Away from Balenciaga X Crocs’ Heeled Clogs Worth Rs 73k.” www.ndtv.com, June 11, 2021. https://www.ndtv.com/lifestyle/viral-fashion-trend-netizens-can-t-look-away-from-balenciaga-x-crocs-heeled-clogs-worth-rs-73k-2461599?_gl=1%2Ar5k8ft%2A_ga%2ANDA0a0tkV3NPWkd3YmdvTWVsa3RXUXJXeFc1OGY0UDlHSS1kSWNTVzJqVEg1ZFBiRThzaFB0YnFJenloSkowUA..%2A_ga_XQCGTLW8NV%2AMTczOTIwMTQ0Mi41LjEuMTczOTIwMTUwMi4wLjAuMA..
[4] designboom, kieron marchese I. “Dolce & Gabbana X Smeg Transform Kitchen Appliances with Sicilian-Inspired Patterns.” designboom, April 24, 2018. https://www.designboom.com/design/dolce-gabbana-smeg-kitchen-range-sicily-is-my-love-divina-cucina-04-23-2018/#:~:text=dolce%20&%20gabbana%20and%20smeg%20join,the%20bright%20and%20colourful%20collection.&text=the%20items%20feature%20traditional%20motifs,be%20available%20later%20this%20year.&text=’sicily%20is%20my%20love’%20in,coffee%20machines%2C%20fridges%20and%20blenders.
[5] “Dolce and Gabbana x SMEG – Blu Mediterraneo – Sydney: Smeg Au.” Dolce and Gabbana x Smeg – Blu Mediterraneo – Sydney | Smeg AU, October 2, 2024. https://www.smeg.com/au/news/events/blu-mediterraneo-launch-sydney.html#:~:text=Events-,Smeg%20launch%20latest%20collaboration%20with%20Dolce&Gabbana:%20Blu%20Mediterrano,born%20from%20this%20creative%20partnership.
[6] Griswold, Maggie. “The Forever 21 x Cheetos Collab Is Dangerously Cheesy (and Actually Very Cute!).” StyleCaster, June 6, 2019. https://stylecaster.com/fashion/fashion-news/1016826/forever-21-cheetos/#slide-1.
[7] TasteTV. “Style & Snacks: Forever 21 x Cheetos Launches the Flamin’ Hot Collection.” TasteTV, June 6, 2019. http://www.tastetv.com/2019/06/06/style-snacks-forever-21-x-cheetos-launches-the-flamin-hot-collection/#:~:text=The%20Forever%2021%20x%20Cheetos%20capsule%20collection,that%20bring%20the%20%60%60Cheetos%20Look’’%20to%20life!
[8] Levine, Barry. “Cheetos-Themed Apparel Arrives at Forever 21.” Marketing Dive, June 6, 2019. https://www.marketingdive.com/news/cheetos-themed-apparel-arrives-at-forever-21/556295/.
[9] Design.pepsico.com. Accessed February 10, 2025. https://design.pepsico.com/case-studies/cheetos-x-forever-21.
