Shirts ‘n’ Things is an independent rock and heavy metal merchandise store at 1840 West Southern Avenue in Mesa, Arizona. Established in 1989 by Larry and Deb Teiman, the business grew out of a smaller operation started by Deb’s father in 1980, when he began selling imported band merchandise, picture discs and patches in the Phoenix area. Larry and Deb later took over, initially selling at the local Park ‘n Swap flea market before opening the permanent Mesa shop opposite Mesa Community College. The business has remained family-owned ever since.
The store covers more than 6,000 square feet, making it considerably larger than the average specialist rock shop. Hundreds of band T-shirts cover the walls, while racks and display areas are filled with posters, patches, badges, flags, jewellery and other accessories. The selection ranges from classic bands such as Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Motörhead to extreme metal acts including Mayhem, Bathory, Darkthrone, Cannibal Corpse and Dying Fetus.
Punk, gothic and alternative clothing also form a substantial part of the stock. Brands such as Tripp NYC, Killstar and Banned Apparel are represented alongside platform boots, studded belts, leather accessories and horror film merchandise.
The interior is densely packed, with band logos, album artwork and film imagery covering much of the available wall and display space. Despite the size of the premises, the shop retains the character of a traditional independent rock and metal store, with the owners and staff closely connected to the local music community. Employees are also encouraged to play their own music selections in the shop.
In 2025, Phoenix New Times named Shirts ‘n’ Things the Best Place to Buy a Band Shirt, recognising the breadth of its officially licensed merchandise. More than three decades after opening in Mesa, the shop remains one of the Phoenix area’s longest-running independent retailers devoted to rock, metal, punk and alternative culture.
ADDRESS:
1840 W Southern Ave #1, Mesa, AZ 85202, USA
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