FREEHOLD, NJ — It was a star-studded day on Wednesday when beloved R&B singer SZA paid a visit to the Freehold Raceway Mall to debut her new collaboration with Vans.
Inspired by "SZA's world, where nature, creativity & self-expression collide," the first drop of VANSZA came to select stores in late October.
On Wednesday, the star paid a visit to the Foot Locker at Freehold Raceway Mall for a meet-and-greet as part of the new line's debut.
"SZA is a very kind person," Riley Crismali told the Asbury Park Press after meeting SZA. "She's very accepting of everybody, and when you come in, she'll give you a warm hug. She's very, very sweet. She'll accept any gift you give to her, and she signs all the stuff that you want her to sign."
For the first drop of VANSZA, products range from the Authentic Kickdown Shoe and Knu Skool Mules to hoodies, sweatpants, hats, T-shirts, and more.
The second drop of VANSZA is expected in Spring 2027. The first drop is available at Vans retail locations and online now.
"This collection is really a reflection of how I live and what inspires me every day," SZA said in a statement. "I wanted to create pieces that feel comfortable, functional and expressive, whether you're on a trail, in the city, or discovering something new about yourself.
"Working with Vans gave me the freedom to explore ideas rooted in creativity, curiosity and play, and my hope is that people feel inspired to step outside their comfort zone, trust their instincts and have fun making something uniquely their own," she continued.
A New Jersey native and Grammy Award winner, SZA (also known as Solána Imani Rowe) is best known for her albums "SOS" and "Ctrl" as well as collaborations on songs like "luther" with Kendrick Lamar.
Most recently, the beloved musician became a New Jersey Hall of Fame inductee during a ceremony held on Sept. 24 at the Dream Live Performing Arts Center at American Dream.
During her acceptance speech, she credited her upbringing in Essex County as a big influence in her life and career.
"I just love community, and I promise to take that energy of community around the world wherever I go," she said.
"When it's time to start a charity or just help other people, I think about how I come from a small town where everybody knows each other's first and last name," SZA continued. "We've all participated in each other's lives and in raising each other, and I'm honored. So thank you so much."
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Freehold Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.