On the eve of Arizona’s first home football game, here is the definitive guide to buying Wildcat swag in Tucson. Whether it’s buying that crucial clear purse, getting that gameday dress or finding some unexpected things to help cheer the team to a future Rose Bowl berth, I hope you find it on this list. And if you have a favorite store that’s not listed, please let me know in the comments!

Bear Down!

The Tried and True…

UA Bookstores – it’s a no brainer to start HERE. Whether it’s the large store in the Student Union, the store in McKale Center or the outpost at Park Mall, you will walk out with the latest trends in clothing, shoes, accessories, tailgate items, tattoos, jewelry. EVERYTHING!

Arizona Attire at La Encantada – a family-owned business, Arizona Attire has a trendy selection of gameday dresses and unique tops for women; polos and golf shirts for men; a large offering of clear purses and blingy Arizona jewelry. The store offers a little something extra from the UA bookstores.

Plunkett’s Hallmark – run by the beautiful Plunkett sisters, this east side store offers stylish options for the mature female UA fan, including sweaters, blouses, jewelry, blingy hats and Wildcat entertaining pieces.

Embellish Home Etc. and Pear Tree House- THE gift-buying stores in Tucson, Embellish and Pear Tree House offer Wildcat jewelry, candles and unique red and blue decor like themed pillows, coin purses and dish towels, etc,.

Victoria’s Secret PINK – It’s always worth checking out PINK’s campus apparel each year at its stores in La Encantada, Park Place and Tucson Mall. Best for coeds, PINK has the Arizona crop tops, crop sweatshirts, leggings and red workout tops for those with rockin’ abs.

Target/Walmart – Two stores never to be overlooked. It pays to check out their sometimes-cute shirts, slides, Wildcat hats, kids jerseys, car decals, umbrellas, flags and even the occasional UA-themed, outdoor spotlight. No joke.

The Surprises…

Plato’s Closet – Plato’s has racks and racks of resale Arizona shirts, football jerseys, basketball jerseys and pullovers–many less than $20 and barely worn!

Pop Cycle Tucson – This 4th Avenue store is selling handmade Wilma and Wilbur hats that recently got a nod in the Arizona Daily Star.

The West – The West is a volunteer-run, retail store next to Whole Foods at River and Craycroft that has blingy “A” pins and earrings, Arizona purses and nightshirts in a bag. The store’s profits are returned to the community through grants to local charities- often with a focus on women and children.

AJ’s Fine Foods, Bashas and Safeway – Yep, amidst the produce and dairy aisles, you just might find a rack of UA shirts and sweatshirts for the last-minute purchase. AJ’s offers Arizona scarves and nightshirts in a bag, as well.