Two titans of different industries have teamed up for a collaboration you may relish.
On June 26, Heinz and Kate Spade New York announced a limited-edition fashion collection that elevates ketchup to haute sauce.
While this collab may seem unexpected, Kate Spade is known for its cheeky designs that pull inspiration from everyday objects, game shows, flora and fauna, so teaming up with the world’s most popular ketchup brand isn’t too far-fetched.
This collection continues the ever-growing trend of food-inspired fashion — with perhaps the most viral example being Rachel Antonoff’s pasta puffer jacket.
In fall 2023, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology gathered some of the most craveable pieces at its show “Food & Fashion.” There, some of the biggest names in fashion were represented, including Carolina Herrera and Issey Miyake. A work from Moschino was inspired by McDonald’s, while a pair of handbags by Delvaux took the form of a burger and fries, proving this Heinz collab is a part of something consumers are hungry for.
It’s worth noting, too, that Heinz’s rival, Hunt’s, put out an exclusive collection last summer with cool-girl brand Lisa Says Gah, as part of the “Tomato Girl” trend.
Heinz and Kate Spade say that the one-of-a-kind capsule collection draws inspiration from each brand’s “signature DNA,” taking the immediately recognizable packaging and color of Heinz ketchup and putting Kate Spade’s colorfully joyful spin on it.
The Heinz x Kate Spade New York collection features tote bags, pouches, ready-to-wear tees, footwear, keychains, phone cases and small leather goods like wristlets and more, meaning that there’s plenty of ketchup to spill on this runway.
“With this new line of ‘condiment couture,’ we’re excited to partner with the iconic kate spade new york brand to pay homage to the beloved HEINZ brand,” Megan Lang, head of global Heinz brand communications and creativity, said in the release.
Lang added that Kate Spade New York actually has a lot in common with the condiment company, specifically that “both brands have incredibly loyal fanbases that transcend generations.”
“It’s the thoughtful details that bring this collection with HEINZ to life — from the embellishments on the tee and the way our 3D ketchup bag looks just like that classic red and white packet,” Jennifer Lyu, SVP and head of design at Kate Spade New York, said in the same release. “The playful designs are perfect for all of summer’s special moments, capturing the spirit of the season.”
The limited-edition Heinz x Kate Spade New York collection ranges in price from $45 to $398 and is available for purchase at select Kate Spade New York stores, select department stores, wholesale locations and online at katespade.com in global markets including China, Europe, Japan, North America and Southeast Asia.
