3 Ways to Soccer-ify Your Closet This Summer
Everyday outfits inspired by the world's favorite game.
It’s been one month since droves of fans (they estimate ~6 million!) descended on metro areas across North America, and here at our NYC offices, we’ve been on outfit watch ever since.
With eight games taking place in our backyard (hey, New Jersey 👋), nearly every city block has been dotted with looks nodding to the most popular game in the world—a Mexico kit here, an adidas Samba there. Soccer core is everywhere, and while some may call it a trend, we consider it more of a movement. It’s an expression of a once-in-four-years phenomenon that stands for something well beyond the brightly colored jerseys and the cleat-inspired sneakers.
Sports fandom—and the sartorialism surrounding it—boils down to community and connection. Call us sentimental, but who wouldn’t want a hand in that? In case you want to hop on the bandwagon along with us, we compiled three of our favorite ways to bring a taste of “the beautiful game” into your wardrobe. Scroll below to see them (no shin guards required).
Tip 1: Lace up a pair of soccer-inspired shoes.
Name one person who doesn’t look amazing in adidas Sambas. We’ll wait. This wildly popular sneaker is universally appealing, thanks to its low profile and classic design. Keep yours on everyday rotation, or wear them more with elevated pieces for a stylish, chic high-low combo.
For him: In other words, we love Sambas for their versatility. In the context of muted ensembles, they’ll read as statement sneakers, but they can also serve as a quieter complement to more trend-forward looks, like this one centered around a tie-dye T-shirt and a statement cap.
For her: For summer plans that involve walking, standing, chasing your children—you name it—Sambas are your savior. Slip them on along with a one-and-done sun dress, and accessorize with a pair of two-tone earrings, sunnies, and a bold bag. Low effort, high impact.
Note: When it comes to slim sneakers, like the adidas Samba, you can absolutely wear the designated “Men’s” version. To convert, simply add 1.5 to your Men’s US size. Prefer a women’s-specific style? Try the adidas VL Court Bold. The subtle platform and more prominent gum sole add fashion-forward flair.
Tip 2: Swap your favorite tee with your favorite jersey.
Enter: the most obvious way to incorporate soccer spirit into your outfit. Pop on a jersey and your outfit immediately has 50% more street cred. No team allegiance? No problem. Grab a kit that boasts an iconic brand logo instead. We like this one from PUMA, because its stripes and gold accents lend texture and visual interest.
For him: A jersey with camo pants—welcome to streetwear at its finest. Amp it up even further with a Ferrari hat, eye-catching PUMAs, and sleek sunglasses.
For her: To bring balance to the oversized shape you have going on up top, go with a hip-skimming style on bottom. This slip skirt does the trick and creates a leggy silhouette along with your favorite kitten heel sandals. Add warmth with gold hoops and texture by way of a faux croc bag.
Tip 3: Let the shorts do the talking.
We love this strategy, because it’s basically a cheat code for staying in your pajamas while achieving a high level of cool factor. A true win-win. Slap a sporty side stripe on a pair of relaxed shorts, and suddenly, you have an outfit that’s more streetwear than loungewear. This cherry red version from adidas adds a pop of color that’s right on trend.
For him: Consider this proof you can pull off soccer shorts in a business casual environment. Just be sure to pair them with sophisticated staples like a striped button-down, leather loafers, and the best watch you own.
For her: Some of the most interesting outfits come down to juxtaposition. For example, a feminine cotton tank brings an unexpected twist to your sporty shorts. We recommend bookmarking this statement look with pared-back accessories like these jelly sandals and go-to gold huggies.
Note: Since these are men’s shorts, be sure to go down a size or two depending on your preferred fit.
How have you been rocking soccer style lately? Share your tips in the comments below.