Pacsun Ushers in Fall with New Collab with The Met and BTS Staples

Surf and skate lifestyle retailer Pacsun’s latest collaboration is the ultimate throwback.

In a continuation of its partnership with the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the specialty retailer’s fall collection references the great civilizations of antiquity and the art they inspired.

Launched Friday, the Greek and Roman collection of fall and winter staples was designed to capture the the art and sculpture that emerged during the classical period. Key references include a Roman marble Head of an Athlete, circa 138-192 CE and a 2nd century CE depiction of The Three Graces.

The line reimagines these classic works with a “fresh, hand-drawn aesthetic,” the brand said in a statement. Women’s selections include sweaters, puffer jackets, crewnecks, fleece hoodies, trousers, T-shirts, shorts and denim, as well as a matching corset top and skirt set and an all-over print mesh top. The men’s line features a bomber jacket, canvas work pants, a garage jacket, a cropped and distressed knit jumper, and T-shirts made with innovative printing techniques. The 25-piece collection is priced at $25-$90, and is available now through Pacsun’s website and stores.

“We are excited to continue our collaboration with The Met and present the latest phase of our collaborative efforts,” Pacsun vice president of men’s and global partnerships Richard Cox said. “This collection represents a merge of historical significance and contemporary style, allowing us to showcase iconic artworks in a new light.”

“With each release, we aim to open the world of art to our young audience and beyond,” he added. “We are excited to see how our customers will infuse these designs into their personal styles.”

The retailer’s partnership with The Met began in October 2022 with a 30-piece capsule that drew influence from late 19th century landscape paintings and floral still-life pieces. In June, the collaborators released a line featuring artwork in The Met collection inspired by New York, which depicted icons from the Statue of Liberty to the Hudson River to Governors Island. Calling the process “an incredible journey,” Stephen Mannello, head of retail and licensing at The Met said, “The resounding success of these collections stands as a testament to the enduring resonance of art.”

“Seeing Met visitors and fans of art history wearing pieces that are emblematic of their favorite artworks is a real joy,” he added. “We look forward to continuing to explore art and design in new ways with Pacsun.”

The partners feted the launch during a gathering at The Met on Thursday evening, showcasing the apparel and the artworks that sparked their design. “The Met’s rich heritage and influence align seamlessly with our ethos and we’ve been able to continue creating designs that intrigue and resonate with our audiences,” said Brieane Olson, Pacsun CEO. “Consumers are now wearing art in a truly unprecedented way.”

Pacsun also celebrated its fall and back-to-school assortment last Thursday at a launch event at its flagship store in Soho, featuring exclusive products from Reebok, PAC 1980 and Fear of God Essentials. The bodega-style party featured experiential popups allowing consumers to shop collections, as well as a photo booth, claw machine and food and beverages.

Baggy denim and cargo silhouettes for men and women, with new washes and details added for fall, and graphic T-shirts, fleece hoodies, sweatshirts, knitwear and outerwear were among the standouts on display. Pacsun said it was “leaning into stylish jackets and outerwear for its Fall 2023 men’s assortment.” Racing-inspired styles, varsity jackets and garage jackets with eye-catching prints complement the women’s range of heavyweight woven coats, flannels and shackets.

“For Fall 2023, we’re seeing a big demand for baggy denim and cargos, layering pieces and graphic tees and fleece, with a neutral color palette across the men’s and women’s categories,” Cox said. Women’s styles have a variety of influences, from “ballet-core” to moto and athletic and “femme” styling, he said. These looks will manifest in contoured seamless tanks and T-shirts, waffle knits, and sweaters in olive, wine, soft pink and neutrals.

Beverly & Beck, one of the retailer’s private labels, will lean into the feminine aesthetic with separates and two-piece sets in neutral fabrications like satin. Another in-house brand, PAC 1980, will feature a sporty and versatile range of active onesies, dresses, skirts and jackets.

“Back-to-school marks an exciting time for our community, and we’re offering a wide range of styles that incorporate the latest trends, colors and aesthetics for all,” vice president of women’s merchandising and design Addie Rintel said.

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