Oxford is known for many things, its dreaming spires, historic colleges, and vibrant student life. For students and families looking to buy Oxford College Wear, there’s one name that’s stood the test of time: The Varsity Shop. As Oxford’s oldest college store, we’ve earned our place in the heart of the university community. Now, with our Collect in Store service, we’re offering something that online-only competitors simply can’t match, true convenience, personal service, and a chance to experience the shop as part of Oxford life.
While others may operate from remote warehouses, we’re here on the ground, right in the heart of Oxford. A short walk from every college, The Varsity Shop is a real brick-and-mortar store with real staff, real stock, and a very real advantage: you can order online and collect in store.
That means no missed parcels, no unnecessary shipping fees, and no waiting around for days on end. Whether you’re after an Oxford College sweatshirt, hoodie, or polo shirt, our Collect in Store option is the quickest, easiest, and most flexible way to shop.
“We know how busy Oxford students are,” says Matthew Cox, General Manager at The Varsity Shop. “Collect in Store means you can order online between lectures, pick up your order when it suits you, and try it on here in our changing room. It’s fast, it’s flexible, and it saves you money on shipping.”
One of the things our customers love most? The fact that they can try on their items before they take them away. Yes, we have actual changing rooms. You won’t find that behind a website login.
Let’s face it, college wear isn’t just about showing your colours. It’s about fit, comfort, and choosing a piece that feels like yours. Trying on your hoodie or sweatshirt in store, speaking to our customer service team, and getting the right size on the spot makes all the difference.
And if something’s not quite right? No problem. Our staff are on hand to help you exchange it straight away. No forms. No delays. No need to stand in line at a Post Office.
You choose your item, size and colour. Then you can add your college crest and choose the colour of the lettering of your college name. It’s easy to order online and even easier to collect. Our typical turnaround time for custom orders is just 7 to 10 days, which is still faster than many competitors offering similar services, and with us, you can collect it in person, inspect it there and then, and try it on before you walk out the door.
It’s all part of the personalised, in-person service we’re proud to offer.
“Being able to personalise college wear is a big part of the experience,” adds Matthew Cox. “We’ve worked hard to keep turnaround times quick even for custom orders so students don’t have to wait weeks for something they’re really proud to wear.”
Another big bonus of collecting in store? You get to browse our full range in person while you’re here.
Maybe you came in for a single item, but you’ll find plenty of inspiration in store from college-branded loungewear and outerwear to accessories and Oxford-themed gifts. There’s no pressure. Just space to explore, friendly advice if you want it, and a local team who genuinely knows the Oxford college system inside out.
We’ve served generations of students, families, tutors, and alumni and we’re always happy to help you find the right item, whether it’s your first term or your final year.
Our Collect in Store service is designed to suit everyone involved in the Oxford experience:
Whether you’re gifting a fresher, kitting out a finalist, or treating yourself to a piece of Oxford pride, our Collect in Store service adds that extra layer of flexibility and reassurance.
We were also the first to launch the Shop by College feature on our website, another example of how we lead, rather than follow. Simply select your college and view the full range of licensed garments and accessories tailored to your college colours and crest.
It’s fast, simple, and built to save you time.
In a marketplace that’s getting busier, it’s worth remembering what sets The Varsity Shop apart:
We’re not just here to sell you a sweatshirt, we’re here to make sure it fits, that you like it, and that it represents your Oxford journey the way it should.
So next time you’re browsing for Oxford College Wear, remember: you don’t have to guess your size, wait for delivery, or worry about returns. With The Varsity Shop’s Collect in Store service, you get the best of both worlds, online convenience with real-world support.
Come in, say hello, try it on, and take it away the same day.