Pacsun, the go-to fashion authority for Gen Z, is kicking off the back-to-school season in style with a multi-city college tour that brings the brand directly onto campuses across the nation. Starting on Saturday, August 30 at the highly anticipated Ohio State vs. University of Texas football game in Columbus, Ohio, Pacsun will launch its dedicated college series with a spirited gameday pop-up shop.
This initiative further cements Pacsun’s role as a cultural lifestyle brand, integrating fashion, music, sports, and campus spirit to create meaningful in-person experiences for students. After a summer of high-energy activations at festivals like Coachella, Rolling Loud, Governor’s Ball, and Outside Lands, the company is now turning its attention to the traditions and pageantry of college gamedays, one of the most culturally relevant environments for young consumers.
Pacsun Doubles Down on Gen Z Community
By hitting major campuses during key college football games, Pacsun is doubling down on its strategy of meeting its community where they are. The brand has become known for bold IRL activations, and the campus pop-ups take this approach center stage.
Richard Cox, Chief Merchandising Officer at Pacsun, explained the initiative:
“Return to campus is one of the biggest shopping moments of the year for our audience and we wanted to show up in a more personal, meaningful way than ever before. By creating memorable, experiential activations in their backyard, we can be a part of these special events and connect directly with our most loyal community.”
Official Campus Tour Tailgate Pop-Up Dates
The Pacsun College Tailgate Tour is set to hit several marquee matchups throughout the fall season. Students and fans can shop the latest back-to-school and gameday-ready styles at the following locations:
- August 30: Ohio State University vs. University of Texas, Columbus, OH
- September 13: University of Georgia vs. University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
- September 27: University of Kentucky vs. University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
- October 4: University of Wisconsin vs. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- November 1: University of Georgia vs. University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Exclusive Pop-Up Collections
At each pop-up stop, fans will find Pacsun’s limited college capsule collections and high-profile collaborations. Shoppers can dive into assortments including The Wild Collective and the highly anticipated Hype & Vice collection (launching September 12).
For women, the collection boasts flirty vintage-inspired apparel including:
- cropped jerseys
- tank tops
- skorts
- baby tees
- shorts
- crewnecks
For men, the capsule includes game-day themed hoodies, tees, and accessories that allow fans to show team pride while rocking the latest streetwear trends.
Expanding Reach Through Student Life
Beyond gameday activations, Pacsun is expanding its reach by immersing itself in student life with a special gifting program. Fall wardrobes of incoming freshmen across the country will include Pacsun gifting boxes, curated by major category , whether it’s STEM, sports, arts, or other pathways.
By giving students access to exclusive products, Pacsun is strengthening ties with its core audience right at the start of their college journeys. This grassroots engagement strategy reflects Pacsun’s evolving role as not just a fashion brand, but a cultural partner in the daily lives of Gen Z students.
Influencer Collaborations
Pacsun is also leaning heavily on its network of Gen Z influencers to drive engagement. Among those collaborating with the brand during its college series are:
- Demetra Dias, a fast-rising TikTok creator known for her authentic style and campus lifestyle content.
- Nicolette Durazzo, a TikTok star whose fashion insights and relatable content resonate with young audiences online.
These collaborations ensure Pacsun’s messaging reaches both physical and digital audiences, reflecting the omnichannel habits of its target customers.
Pacsun: Rooted in Culture
For Pacsun, this college series is just the latest proof point in its strategy of becoming more than just a retailer. After experiential set-ups at music festivals earlier this year, the brand is now embedding itself in university culture, reflecting the central role fashion plays in the lives of students as they express themselves, celebrate school spirit, and connect with peers.
The brand’s community-first approach is a key driver of Pacsun’s continued relevance among a Gen Z audience that values authenticity, inclusivity, and direct cultural connection.
Shop School Spirit, Pacsun-Style
Fans can shop Pacsun’s college collections online at www.pacsun.com, with brand-new drops landing throughout the fall, including additional Hype & Vice pieces on September 12.
Whether at a football tailgate or in the classroom, Pacsun is ensuring this season’s wardrobe essentials are bold, playful, and rooted in self-expression. With style capsules crafted for both everyday and gameday culture, Pacsun remains a fashion authority — proudly taking college by storm, one campus at a time.
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