Vans and SZA Bring Vansza to New York Fashion Week

Vans is bringing its collaboration with SZA to life in New York, introducing Vansza through an immersive experience built around nature, instinct and self-discovery. Taking over 260 Bowery during New York Fashion Week, the activation offers an early look at the world behind the collection, giving visitors a taste of the imagery, references and ideas that sit at the heart of SZA’s first major creative project with the brand. The project follows Vans’ multi-year partnership with SZA, who was named the brand’s Artistic Director in 2025, with the role spanning campaigns and exclusive product collaborations.

At the centre of Vansza is SZA’s approach to getting dressed: practical, expressive and a little unconventional. The footwear line pushes Vans into more exploratory territory, led by the Vansza LX Tabi Hiker, a split-toe silhouette with an outdoor-focused build and colourways SZA selected herself. Elsewhere, the Knu Skool Mule, Knu Skool and Authentic Kickdown are reworked with details including RealTree camouflage, custom artwork by Sage Adams, distressed canvas and a collapsible heel, the latter inspired by SZA’s habit of stepping on the backs of her shoes. Apparel follows the same instinctive approach, with relaxed workwear, washed denim and oversized utility pieces. One of the standout ideas is the Workwear Trompe L’Oeil Fleece Set, which turns a worn workwear jacket from SZA’s own wardrobe into a photorealistic print across a fleece and matching sweatpant. The Vansza Denim Hunting Jacket and Multi-Pocket Denim Pant similarly play with vintage utility references through oversized proportions, contrast corduroy and exaggerated pockets. Drop 1 launches on 22 October at Vans retail locations and online, with Drop 2 following on 8 April 2027, while the experience is open to the public on 10 and 11 September.