It's been another weird week in retail. Nineties nostalgia is all too real these days, denim keeps getting worse and Taco Bell wants to be your next vacation stay.
This, and more, in this week's retail therapy.
The '90s live on
Fashion inspired by the 1990s has been cropping up everywhere lately, and now that fad is extending beyond apparel. Bandai, the maker of the Tamagotchi toy that first debuted in 1996, announced this week that the toy is making a comeback. The new Tamagotchi On toy comes with a colored display and is currently available at Target, Amazon, GameStop and Urban Outfitters.
The new "Daycare drop-off feature" allows users to "leave their My Tama in good hands while they take some time off (and go to school)," the company said in a statement. This may come as a saving grace, because at least for us, we have fond memories of being stressed trying to care for a digital pet and get an education at the same time. So much responsibility for such young souls.
I've been wondering for so long when they'd release colour Tamagotchi in the west and HERE WE ARE BOIS pic.twitter.com/Tx5WvSWkbO
— Cheesu ⚡ (@cheesu_cake) May 7, 2019
But the '90s fun doesn't stop there. Asos on Twitter advertised a product it's selling that looks strikingly similar to the outfit worn by Britney Spears in her "Oops! … I Did it Again" music video. And because nothing gets by the Twitter community, people were quick to notice.
That is just so typically me ???? You were born to make us happy @LiamLovesey94 ???? pic.twitter.com/yh7d7P9Lol
— ASOS (@ASOS) May 15, 2019
And for consumers who want in on the trend but in a more luxe way, there's an option for that, too. Fendi in its Salleria Roma/Amor collection unveiled several styles from purses with neon touches to tiny shades. But most notably, the fashion house blessed us with the best gift of all: platform sandals decked out in the signature "F" pattern. This, right here, is what dreams are made of, friends.
No sign for better denim in sight
We've seen our fair share of denim nightmares, so we'd have thought by now designers had run that well dry. But unfortunately for us, they haven't yet. Shinesty has created a denim print speedo, or what some dub, the Jeado. You might recall the denim briefs we brought to your attention in April. Well, somehow we think this garment knocks those right out of the park.
In the product description, the company compares wearing these garments to "eating a bag of chips in church. Everyone looks over at you with disgust, but deep down they want some too." We really can't make this up.
If you're still in the market for a denim disaster, but want something a bit more conservative, we've got your back. Nike is releasing a new style of the Air Jordan 11 golf shoes, but with a denim upgrade, as reported by Sneaker News. We thought jeans on the golf course was taboo, but apparently Nike is trying to change that.
Why do I like these so much
— C (@PlayboyConner) May 16, 2019
Ksenia Schnaider is also back at it again — and this time with lots of fringe. The designer is known for unconventional styles, like this pair of jeans with transparent panels, or this pair that combines two styles in one. But these fringe jeans, which cost $347, certainly hold their own. And with thigh-high slits, they're perfect for those boiling hot days that are creeping up on us.
Taco Bell's bid to become a total lifestyle company
The fast-food restaurant known for its Crunchwrap Supremes and subpar tacos is working on changing its image. Taco Bell this week announced it's opening a hotel and resort called "The Bell: A Taco Bell Hotel and Resort" in Palm Springs, California.
The resort includes guest rooms, a pool with sauce packet floaties and a salon offering nail art services, fades and braiding. There will also be a gift shop on premise with branded apparel so the party can continue on after guests check out.
Taco Bell is opening a resort hotel. Yes, this is really happening. All my dreams have just come true! Now I have a place to go on vacation. #tacohaven
— Bill (@wire0523) May 16, 2019
i want to retire here https://t.co/a3hESSxtH8
— Mike Murphy (@mcwm) May 16, 2019
Taco Bell has previously turned its Las Vegas flagship into a Cantina fit for hosting weddings, opened a residence in Canada in partnership with Airbnb and launched an apparel line with Forever 21, so we can't say this move is that surprising. The company will begin taking reservations in June, and the hotel officially opens on Aug. 9. But fans better act quickly as the "tacoasis" is only open for a limited time.
Fast-food companies continue serving up great marketing
Red Lobster kicked off a sweepstakes competition this week centered around its cult-favorite Cheddar Bay Biscuits, according to an email to Retail Dive. Fans have the opportunity to win an insulated fanny pack that reads, "Cheddar Bay Biscuits" by tweeting to @RedLobster and including the hashtag #CBBSweepstakes.
The competition runs through June 4, meaning some lucky winners will be able to sport this accessory all summer long.
So this has changed how I'm going to festivals now https://t.co/tRQUUjhC6g
— The Ape (@jconnell13) May 16, 2019
listen, i need this so i can hold all of my red lobster biscuits. my life is empty without these cheddar biscuits. they bring me so much joy and warmth. WITH THIS FANNY PACK I COULD CARRY THEM AROUND AND BLESS THE WORLD WITH THE GOOD NEWS OF BISCUITS. @redlobster #CBBSweepstakes
— Emily Cover (@emlynn96) May 16, 2019
And because fast-food chains love serving up absurd marketing tactics just as much as they love the food itself, Dunkin announced it would be releasing nail polish with colors inspired by its signature drinks. Why focus on improving the gross coffee and dry doughnuts when you can release a completely useless item?? The collection is available in salons across 10 cities while supplies last.
Is this....a joke? All the things Dunkin' could come out with and they pick nail polish? pic.twitter.com/4irAn3vMgt
— Alli (@altlee7) May 15, 2019
