Lee, ‘Dragon Ball Z’ Collaborate on First Collection

Lee has announced a new collaboration with “Dragon Ball Z,” available in the U.S. and Europe. The two global brands are celebrating their first collaboration with a curated apparel capsule.

An ode to late ’90s and Y2K culture, the collaboration takes a nostalgic look at style from the early days of “Dragon Ball Z.”  

“A generation of fans were introduced to anime through ‘Dragon Ball Z’ in the ’90s, and that same generation grew up wearing Lee,” says Joe Broyles, global vice president, collaborations, Lee. “This capsule takes a fun approach to blend authentic nostalgia with trend. We’re excited to introduce it to fans of yesterday and today.” 

The collection focuses on tops and tees with select shorts and a knit dress for women. Styles are in men’s, women’s and unisex sizes. Bright colors and “Dragon Ball Z” characters and logos adorn each piece. 

Here is a highlight of styles available in the U.S. and EMEA. 

·         Men’s graphic camp shirt 

·         Men’s pocket-front T-shirts  

·         Women’s graphic knit hooded dress  

·         Unisex drawstring shorts  

·         Unisex graphic tees 

Each region also has exclusive styles. The capsule will be available on Lee.com, Lee.EU and in Lee’s owned stores in Europe, North Carolina and Asia. 

This collaboration draws on two huge fashion trends in licensed merchandise: anime and nostalgia. 

Fashion has been receiving a big boost from anime collaborations, a growing trend in the licensing industry. From LOEWE x “Howl’s Moving Castle” to Akedo’s Pokémon collection and more, fans of anime brands are leaning into their fandom by making anime high fashion.  

“Dragonball Z” also leans into the nostalgia factor. The brand launched in 1989 in Japan and made its way to the U.S. in 2001. Kids that grew up with the property are now adults and have the buying power for consumer products. 

A study by YouGov and the7stars found nine out of 10 people thought fondly of the past, and those reminded of the past in ads were more likely to let that inform their buying decisions. 

In other “Dragon Ball Z” news, Vanquish Fitness recently launched a collaborative capsule collection including oversized shirts and stringer vests.