September 14 is likely to be a very busy day at Target.
Target announced it is celebrating 20 years of limited-time designer partnerships by bringing back nearly 300 items from 20 of its favorite collaborations in a special “anniversary collection” that launches online and in stores on Saturday, Sept. 14. The partnerships — the first one launched in 1969 with architect and designer Michael Graves — are credited with helping to build Target’s cheap-chic image while also setting it apart from the competition.
The anniversary collection will include some of Target’s most iconic and popular collaborations, including ones with Michael Graves, Philippe Starck, Isaac Mizrahi, Missoni and Lilly Pulitzer. The most recent brand included in the lineup is Hunter, which came out in 2018. (See end of article for a complete list.)
With prices that range from $7 to $160, the anniversary assortment will include apparel, accessories, home decor and kitchen essentials, with the selection to vary by store. As has always been the case with Target’s designer partnerships, merchandise will be available while supplies last (which, in some cases, is not very long at all.) The retailer said shoppers will be allowed to purchase up to five items per size and color.
“Target has forever changed the retail landscape by doing what once was considered impossible—offering great design at an incredible price,” said Mark Tritton, executive VP and chief merchandising officer, Target. “This anniversary celebrates our rich design history and the diverse range of partnerships we’ve offered our guests for the last 20 years,” Each partnership brought something special and exciting to our guests, and with 20 years behind us, we’re only getting started.”
In addition, Target is partnering with publishing house Rizzoli on a commemorative book, “Target: 20 Years of Design for All: How Target Revolutionized Accessible Design,” which highlights the history of its partnerships and iconic collections. It’s also coming out with a related documentary film, created by producing partner RadicalMedia, later this fall. Click here for a preview.
“Design has always been a part of Target’s DNA,” said Rick Gomez, executive VP, chief marketing and digital officer, Target. “From our stores and the products we create to the partnerships we cultivate, our focus on accessible design sets Target apart, and is one of the reasons guests love to shop with us. Our marketing campaign will celebrate the inclusive nature of design at Target, including a book and documentary that highlight Target’s impact on the retail industry and our guests’ lives by making great design accessible to everyone.”
Target’s past design partners chosen for its anniversary collection include Michael Graves (1999-2013); Philippe Starck (2002); Stephen Sprouse (2002); Isaac Mizrahi (2003-2009); Erin Fetherston (2007); Proenza Schouler (2007); Thakoon (2008); John Derian (2008, 2010); Anna Sui (2009); Rodarte (2009); Stephen Burrows (2010); Zac Posen (2010); Harajuku Mini (2011-2012); Missoni (2011); Jason Wu (2012); 3.1 Phillip Lim (2013); Altuzarra (2014); Lilly Pulitzer (2015); Marimekko (2016) and Hunter (2018).