Fans of Target stores long ago nicknamed the retailer "Tar-zhay" for its cheap and chic clothes, the French accent lending the discounter a certain je ne sais quoi that made it acceptable among fashionistas. Perhaps it was inevitable, then, that the company would spin the pet name into a marketing opportunity.
Target Corp. has licensed its bull's-eye logo and name to consulting firm Brand Central LLC for use in a new line of high-end clothing called Target Couture. (The line's logo even adds an accent mark to the "e" in Target to make it look more French.) Select pieces range from a pair of $140 skinny jeans with a glittery bull's-eye on a back pocket to a $3,185 gold-and-diamond bull's-eye necklace. (WASHINGTON POST)
Target Couture
New High End Label from Target
Trend Themes
1. Luxury Collaborations - Target's collaboration with consulting firm Brand Central for Target Couture demonstrates the trend of mass retailers partnering with high-end brands to create exclusive luxury lines.
2. Affordable Luxury - The introduction of Target Couture showcases the trend of offering high-quality, stylish products at affordable prices, making luxury fashion more accessible to a wider consumer base.
3. Fashion Brand Extension - Target's foray into high-end fashion with Target Couture reflects the trend of established brands expanding into new market segments to diversify their offerings and reach a broader audience.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - The collaboration between Target and Brand Central for Target Couture presents an opportunity for mass retailers to tap into the luxury fashion market and attract a more affluent customer base.
2. Fashion - The introduction of Target Couture highlights the potential for the fashion industry to bridge the gap between high-end designer labels and affordable fashion through strategic collaborations and innovative marketing.
3. Consulting - Brand Central's partnership with Target for Target Couture exemplifies the opportunity for consulting firms to leverage their expertise in brand management and licensing to facilitate collaborations and create unique product lines.