It's discoveries like Yearbook Yourself that get me really excited to be a Trend Hunter!
The website, yearbookyourself.com, takes you back through the decades and transforms you into the stereotypical geek of that era.
Anyone can upload a photo of themselves, select your nearest shopping mall, and then the site then decks you out in the hideous hair (think mullets and perms), atrocious outfits (Christmas sweaters and tracksuits) and other accessories associated with that period that we typically poke fun of today.
On the oppose side of each simulated Yearbook photo are three modern day brands that are promoted as being able to save you from committing similar style crimes today.
For example, "In 1980, Member's Only jackets were totally rad. Get today's latest outwear at: Ben Sherhman, Kira Plastinina, Lacoste" and "In '78, kids were shouldering around huge boom boxes. For a lighter load, pick up an MP3 player at: Apple, Sony Style, Brookstone."
What a great way for advertisers to engage customers in a fun way that still allows them to flex the ability of choice.
There are versions for men and women.
Clearly, I had fun taking Jeremy and I back in time. I just can't believe how much I look like my mother (and grandmother!) in some of these!
Interactive Retro Flashbacks
Yearbook Yourself
Trend Themes
1. Interactive Nostalgia Branding - Brands can engage customers in a fun and interactive way through retro-themed virtual experiences, leading to increased brand awareness and sales.
2. Time-travel Marketing Campaigns - Marketing campaigns that transport customers back to a particular decade can help promote nostalgia and brand loyalty, while also providing a fun and memorable experience.
3. Virtual Vintage Styling Tools - The use of virtual tools to transform photos and styles to reflect a particular era can be a disruptive innovation opportunity for the fashion and beauty industries.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry can capitalize on the nostalgia and retro theme by incorporating vintage-inspired designs and marketing campaigns.
2. Beauty - Virtual vintage styling tools can be integrated by the beauty industry to offer customers a unique online shopping experience and personalized recommendations based on their preferences.
3. Marketing and Advertising - The interactive nostalgia branding trend presents a huge opportunity for marketing and advertising agencies to create engaging campaigns that resonate with customers and drive sales.