07-05-2025
Universal Standard Relaunches Mystery Boxes Ahead of Price Increases
Universal Standard is bracing for the impact of tariffs by bringing back mystery boxes.
The size inclusive denim brand said it is reviving the popular program while it can offer value to consumers.
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'With the current tariff environment shifting rapidly, we're facing a lot of uncertainty—especially when comes to our future inventory and pricing. The reality is, we can't predict the future. But we can take action now—and that's exactly what we're doing,' Polina Veksler, Universal Standard CEO and co-founder, stated in an email to customers.
The boxes are a way for Universal Standard to shed excess inventory and for consumers to save up to 85 percent. Mystery boxes contain 2-4 unknown pieces curated by a theme or type of product. Consumers pick the type of box they want and the size. The boxes retail for $84-$448.
Veksler said the boxes feature pieces already in Universal Standard's warehouse and new styles that haven't launched yet.
Boxes fall into three 'box experiences.' First Look Boxes include new styles that haven't hit the website yet as well as exclusive colorways. Heritage Boxes focus on Universal Standard's signature pieces that are rarely deeply discounted. Final Few Boxes include last-chance style that the brand is retiring.
Themes span the Denim & Dreams Box, which includes two jeans to the Summer Luxury Box with three warm-weather wardrobe essentials and the Travel Box featuring three versatile and comfortable pieces.
The Surprise x4 Box is described as the 'ultimate mystery experience' with four styles that encapsulate the Universal Standard wardrobe. While the styles can span casual to elevated, Universal Standard said all are timeless, comfortable and versatile.
Universal Standard, which recently launched in Nordstrom, is already feeling pressure from Trump's tariffs. Veksler said the brand has already made small price increases on some style restocks. She added that it will likely need to make another price adjustment this month.
'The situation is changing daily, and we're actively exploring ways to absorb rising costs in addition to working closely with our global partners to renegotiate pricing and terms, so we can continue offering the same high-quality pieces, made responsibly and priced fairly,' Veksler said.
