The 'If Lost, Return to Rita' meme stems from the popular buddy system or tethered couple novelty T-shirts often seen at theme parks, cruise ships, or crowded festivals. The design features a two-part joke: one person wears a shirt claiming they are lost and should be returned to a specific person, while their partner wears a matching shirt identifying themselves as that person. It became a viral sensation as a symbol of relationship goals or humorous dependency, often used to depict characters with chaotic energy being managed by a more grounded partner. The Rita version specifically highlights a specific name but is frequently adapted for any duo, making it a staple in the wholesome yet self-deprecating humor genre.