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SZA shocks fans as she takes over Vans art direction in major fashion shake up

Her debut campaign with the brand has fans in a frenzy.

This content is reviewed by the 7NEWS Editorial team. 7NEWS may receive a commission when you buy from links on our site. Prices correct at time of publication.

Ariana PezeshkiBy Ariana Pezeshki
SZA takes the reins as Vans’ new Artistic Director, starring in a bold debut campaign for the Knu Skool sneaker.  Credit: Vans

SZA shocks fans as she takes over Vans art direction in major fashion shake up

Her debut campaign with the brand has fans in a frenzy.

This content is reviewed by the 7NEWS Editorial team. 7NEWS may receive a commission when you buy from links on our site. Prices correct at time of publication.

Ariana PezeshkiBy Ariana Pezeshki

When it comes to celebrity-fashion crossovers, this one has our attention.

SZA, one of the most influential music icons in R&B today, has officially stepped into the fashion world as Vans’ new Artistic Director — and fans are losing it.

The global footwear brand announced a multi-year creative partnership with the Grammy-winning artist, confirming that SZA will not only star in campaigns but also co-create exclusive product collections.

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It’s a huge move for both the singer and the brand, and it’s already being hyped as one of the most exciting collaborations of 2025.

Her debut campaign is nothing short of cool.

Shot by Sophie Jones and styled by Alejandra Hernandez, the visuals show SZA rocking the Vans Knu Skool in Black/White — a chunky, skate-inspired sneaker originally released in 1997 and now reimagined for a new generation.

SZA’s debut campaign for Vans has sent fans into meltdown.  Credit: Vans

With oversized laces, a puffed tongue and a bold silhouette, it’s set to become this season’s must-have trainer.

In Vans, I feel free,” SZA revealed of the partnership.

“I’ve been wearing Knu Skools and other styles for years; they’ve always had an ethos I connect with. As Artistic Director, my mission is to show that joy, community, creativity, and fashion are all still intersectional.”

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Fans are already flooding social media with their reactions to the news, with many calling it “the ultimate collab” and others praising the campaign’s celebration of self-expression and individuality.

It’s easy to see why the hype is real. SZA is more than just a chart-topping singer. She’s a cultural force, redefining what it means to be an artist in 2025.

The Grammy-winning artist rocks the Knu Skool in Black/White.  Credit: Vans

From her record-breaking album SOS, which has spent over 100 weeks dominating the R&B charts, to her countless awards and even a blockbuster film debut, she’s proven she can do it all.

Now, she’s bringing that same fearless creativity to one of the world’s most iconic sneaker brands.

The partnership is also a power move for Vans.

Known for its skate culture roots and “Off the Wall” ethos, the brand has always been about celebrating individuality.

Originally released in 1997, the Knu Skool is back with a bang.  Credit: Vans

By teaming up with SZA, Vans is tapping into her massive influence and credibility across music, fashion and youth culture.

And let’s be real — if SZA is telling us that the Knu Skool is the shoe to wear right now, chances are it’s about to sell out fast.

SZA’s creative partnership with Vans is being hailed as one of the most exciting fashion collabs of the year. Credit: Vans

The Vans Knu Skool in Black/White is available now online at Vans.com.au.

But with the hype surrounding SZA’s debut campaign, fans will want to move quickly before sizes disappear.

SZA is making it clear that she’s not just here to sing. She’s here to shape fashion, too.

Shop Vans styles here:

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