Why compete when you can collaborate? These brands got the memo. The first two months of 2025 have been cutting-edge for brand partnerships, manifesting that the proper collaboration can trigger buzz-worthy events, create viral moments, and offer products that echo across different target segments. From high-fashion throwbacks making a comeback to pop stars indulging in the beauty coffee world, these collaborations unveil the power of outside-of-the-box marketing and brands joining forces. Here are some of this year’s most distinctive brand partnerships so far.
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1. Formula 1 x KitKat
KitKat has introduced its “Have a Break, Have a KitKat” slogan into high-profile racing as a new sponsor of Formula 1. This collaboration reminds F1 drivers and fans to take a pause from the intense emotions that come with the fast-paced adventure of racing. This partnership between F1 and KitKat illustrates how global sports and consumer brands can create an iconic partnership that binds two distinct international audiences while strengthening consumer engagement. By sponsoring F1, KitKat positions itself as the go-to snack for adrenaline-fueled environments, complementing the thrill and exhilaration that defines Formula 1.
2. Sabrina Carpenter x Dunkin’
This collaboration is more than just a ‘latte’ fun—Dunkin’ and Sabrina Carpenter have brewed up the perfect partnership. Dunkin’ introduced “Shake That Ess,” a limited-edition drink, which is a play on words of her top-hitting chart song “Espresso” that perfectly encapsulates her quirky and bold personality. The Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso was a hit creation that echoed her fanbase, composed primarily of Gen Z. This partnership is a masterpiece, perfectly illustrating how smart of a move it is to dive into pop culture to boost customer engagement and brand visibility. The campaign went viral on social media, with fans jumping on the train of filming reviews and their reactions to the drink on TikTok and Instagram reels, which resulted in significant organic buzz. This collaboration was a massive win for Dunkin’, significantly increasing its sales while nourishing Dunkin’s cultural relevance by being backed up and loved by the trendiest and most iconic singer of the year. Dunkin’ successfully converted one of their day-to-day coffee orders into a viral and memorable moment.
3. Apple x Hermès
Experience luxury on your wrist—Apple x Hermès reimagines the ultimate smartwatch. This year, Apple and Hermès extended their collaboration, designing new Apple Watch bands and exclusive watch faces that combine Apple’s innovative technology with Hermès’ lavish products. The collaboration birthed a collection of exclusive leather bands thought out by Hermès’ designers, which combine staple and modern designs to tie with Apple’s innovative technology and provide users with a statement piece yet functional smartwatch.
4. Nike x SKIMS
Nike meets Skims, Kim Kardashian’s loungewear and shape-wear, for a game-changing collection in athletic fashion coming this spring. This collaboration combines Skims’ staple designs with Nike’s performance technology, preaching body positivity and offering a range of sizes to ensure all body types are represented. This collection is rumored to be the perfect combination of Nike’s popular fabrics, including moisture-wicking and breathable fabric, with Skims’ staple body-hugging fit providing comfort and performance while being fashionable, empowering consumers to make the world their runway when wearing the collection when it comes out in the spring.
5. Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami Re-Edition Collection
The memorable Louis Vuitton x Japanese artist Takashi Murakami collaboration from 2003 makes an iconic comeback in 2025, bringing nostalgia and modernism together and creating unique statements in high-end fashion. The collection showcases colorful monogram prints, anime-inspired designs, and Murakami’s signature smiley faces in different Louis Vuitton products, including purses, shoes, and accessories. The target audience for this legendary collaboration is young, fashionable individuals who are into streetwear and luxury fashion. It blends modern fashion trends and sophistication, catching consumers’ attention for its visually aesthetically pleasing designs and cultural relevance.
6. Rhode x Tate McRae
Pop meets beauty in the Rhode x Tate McRae feature —here’s why this is one of 2025’s most talked-about collaborations. This campaign embodies a calculated approach to oversized marketing while capitalizing off of McRae’s bold, trendsetting, youthful persona to resonate with Gen Z. By teaming up with the iconic pop star, Rhode introduces themselves into McRae’s significant social media following, positioning the brand to mirror the singer’s cool and trendy image. Opting for oversized visuals, like McRae posing with a giant Peptide Lip Shape from Rhode, aims to be visually striking for viewers to highlight the product’s strong presence and create a memorable statement. This oversized marketing campaign intensifies Rhode’s presence across social media platforms, using McRae’s star power to connect with a broader audience and strengthen its brand visibility.
7. Olivia Rodrigo x Lancôme
Gen Z’s favorite pop star is now changing the pathway of beauty—thanks to Lancôme. The Olivia Rodrigo x Lancôme collaboration had a significant mark in beauty marketing, especially for Lancome’s expansion in brand visibility. Lancome’s primary target audience is millennials. However, this collaboration broadened Lancome’s reach to Gen Z, who are Olivia Rodrigo’s fans, transforming Lancome’s brand image to be portrayed as a youthful brand and relevant for Gen Z to be interested in trying out. In this collaboration, Rodrigo promotes Idôle Power Eau de Parfum Intense, which has a scent that perfectly embodies her preach for empowerment, femininity, and confidence.
8. Venus Williams x Dior Beauty
Tennis player Legend Venus Williams champions beauty and wellness in her most recent collaboration with Dior Beauty. This campaign showcases Williams promoting Dior Beauty’s Capture Line, an anti-aging skincare collection. This collaboration targets consumers who prioritize lavish self-care while controlling their aging appearance. Venus is the perfect face for the Capture Line, as her passion for wellness and athleticism goes hand in hand with Dior Beauty’s image of luxury, elegance, and self-care.
Innovative Partnerships Leading the Way
These pioneering collaborations showcase how brands are converging fields in astonishing ways, pushing boundaries and engaging audiences all over the globe. From high-end fashion to global sports and pop culture, these partnerships show that creativity has no limits. By thinking outside the box, these brands are boosting engagement and redefining the opportunities in the marketing world.
Ready to Build the Next Game-Changing Collaboration?
If these innovative partnerships have stirred your creativity, it’s time to uncover how your brand can create something truly sensational. Our experts are here to guide you through building the perfect partnership that will engage your audience and amplify your brand. Reach out today to start your creative journey and make your next collaboration unmatchable!
