Starbucks' Latest Buzzworthy Collaboration Is...Designer Aprons?

Forget about a drink inspired by Ariana Grande or a new lineup of summer frappuccinos, the four-story Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo recently collaborated with high-end Japanese designers to release a line of accessories including a chic, multi-use cargo apron. As reported by RetailWire, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery branded collaboration also features a plastic basket, fabric lounge chair and cutting board.

Could a branded Starbucks collection from a U.S. fashion designer play out similarly in the states? Well, weirder fashion collaborations have happened, like this one between fast-fashion company Forever21 and the United States Postal Service. Iconic brands such as Coca-Cola are almost ubiquitous in apparel, and websites like Etsy are already rife with bootleg Starbucks merch. A recent crossover between Arizona Iced Tea and Adidas caused such a commotion that it had to be shut down by police.

Over the years, big franchise brands like McDonald’s and KFC have also made moves in limited-edition apparel. As the line between branding and identity blurs, it only makes sense that more franchise and non-franchise brands would make the move into the ever-personal fashion realm. Supplemental retail offerings like apparel and accessories not only increase brand visibility, but also give consumers a chance to express their fandom in a fun, playful way. Maybe this is what camp is all about.

Personally, this writer isn’t necessarily going to be lined up outside for a limited-release Starbucks x Palace capsule collection, but I might absentmindedly buy a branded scrunchie if it was in the checkout line at Target.

Photo courtesy of BEAMS as used by multiple news outlets.