Panera Bread launched a head-turning new accessory that sold out almost immediately: a derby hat inspired by their iconic bread bowl. But is this merch a fashion must-have or a recipe for a style disaster?
Panera's Bread Bowl Hat
Panera launched a hat that looks like a literal loaf of bread - not kidding. The "Bread Head" hat is a limited-edition fascinator designed for the Kentucky Derby. It features a 3D-printed replica of their bread bowl perched atop a flurry of feathers, with a golden spoon sticking out the side. We get this is a stunt based around the Kentucky Derby tradition of wearing elaborate head-gear but, like, seriously? A bread hat? Well, haters be damned because the thing sold out lickety-split.
Fashion Statement or Panera Prank?
While Panera describes it as the perfect way to "serve up all the looks and compliments" for the Deby this year, some reviewers aren't sold. Eater, a popular food website, said it "kind of looks like a bird tried to make a nest out of stale leftovers." Despite the mixed reviews, the $21 hat sold out on launch day! Those who missed out can sign up for email notifications in case Panera releases more. This isn't Panera's first foray into food-themed fashion. Last year, they launched a BAGuette purse inspired by their French bread.
$100 Gift Card!
The hat even comes with a perk: a $100 Panera gift card if you purchase it, along with nine new menu items and twelve menu upgrades. The updated menu includes new sandwiches, salads, and bacon mac & cheese pasta.
So, our jury's out on whether we'd sport this yeasty chapeau but we do love a good internet kerfuffle so we'll be keeping an eye on which way the wind blows on this unique merch launch.
