Japanese label WIND AND SEA drops a colorful triple-collaboration capsule with hip-hop pioneers De La Soul and nostalgic rhythm game ‘PaRappa the Rapper,’ injecting 90s flavor into modern streetwear. Meanwhile, JCPenney partners with Latin Grammy winner Joaquina on a back-to-school collection rooted in cultural pride and youth expression.
Toy giants also make waves: LEGO teases ‘Wicked’ bookends, and Mattel rolls out Glinda and Elphaba fashion dolls modeled after Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo—lavishly detailed ahead of the Wicked film release. At San Diego Comic-Con, Mattel bridges past and present with collector pieces spanning WWE, Jurassic World, and a Masters of the Universe x TMNT crossover. Additionally, Tokyo’s Geeks Rule revives gothic anime with a retro-styled Hellsing collection, reimagining horror through vintage fashion. Finally, BLACKPINK stars in Asahi’s first East Asia-spanning campaign, uniting nations with limited-edition beer cans—attesting to the group’s global appeal.
Overall, these August trends reveal how pop culture continues to evolve through bold collaborations that fuse nostalgia, identity, and storytelling across mediums. By reimagining familiar icons and championing diverse voices, brands are not only honoring legacy but also shaping the cultural landscape of tomorrow.
