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Boy Band SMAP Wears Hello Kitty Suits to Celebrate Her 40th Anniversary
posted on by Chris Nishijima
This year, Sanrio celebrates 40 years of their adorable mascot, Hello Kitty. To help commemorate Hello Kitty's most momentous birthday yet, Sanrio announced several new lines of collaborative merchandise at their Sanrio Expo 2014 on February 7. While some might think that Hello Kitty is just for the younger kids, Sanrio has made sure to include a little something for everyone, including teaming up with Japanese Boy Band SMAP for their latest album.
It was announced back in October of 2013 that one of the album's title songs "Hello" would be the official theme song for Hello Kitty's 40th anniversary. In fact, the album cover features the boys donning suits based off of Hello Kitty herself.
The outfits were put on display during last week's Sanrio Expo 2014.
Of course, Hello Kitty's 40th anniversary has hit much more than just the J-POP scene. Other items at Sanrio Expo 2014 included jewelry from Mikimoto and Chan Luu, fashion designs by Pink House and Wapper, as well as glassware from Fire-King and accessories from Colette, all devoted to helping Hello Kitty have the happiest birthday ever.
In case nothing from Sanrio Expo suits your fancy, be sure to check some of Hello Kitty's other 40th anniversary collaborations, including merchandise from Licca-chan, Mitsubishi, and the Simpsons. Happy Birthday, Hello Kitty!
[Via: Anime Anime!; Images from Mikimoto, Fashion Headline, and Sanrio]
