Blokecore: How Soccer Jerseys Became Fashionable
By Nicole Lara ‘25
Photos by Jordan Saint-Louis. Left: Elizabeth Duran wearing Neymar’s Brazil jersey. Middle: Lukka Wolff wearing a Uganda jersey. Right: Griffin Clinton wearing USMNT jersey.
Having grown up watching and playing soccer, I never would have imagined that soccer jerseys would become a fashion trend. I always saw a surge in the popularity of soccer jerseys during major tournaments like the World Cup, the Euros, Copa América, and the African Cup of Nations, but the people wearing jerseys were either the players themselves or soccer enthusiasts proudly sporting their favorite teams. That was the norm, but recently I’ve noticed a shift: soccer jerseys are no longer solely worn for athletic purposes. In fact, they’ve become a part of everyday fashion.
Celebrities and social media play a huge role in creating and perpetuating trends. Stars like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner have been spotted wearing the Brazil jersey at parties, concerts, and even during casual outings. What was once a strictly sportswear item has now become a streetwear statement.
Furthermore, social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok, have fueled this shift. With influencers and fashion bloggers constantly sharing outfit inspiration, the Brazil jersey has made its way into the daily wardrobe of many, especially those looking for a vibrant, unique piece to add to their repertoire. Influencers find ways to pair jerseys with everything from high-waisted jeans to oversized jackets, transforming them from athletic gear to stylish fashion fits.
For some, wearing a soccer jersey represents cultural pride and signals national identity. To them, a jersey is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a way of expressing admiration for one’s country’s legacy. However, for others, wearing soccer apparel is simply about fashion. The jerseys tap into a growing global interest in sports aesthetics that blends personal style with national imagery. The Brazil jersey, in particular, much like other sports jerseys, has evolved from a functional item into a form of self-expression.
The rise in popularity of the Brazil jersey and tank top also brings up questions of exclusivity. As with many fashion trends, there’s an element of social cachet attached to owning certain items. For some, a soccer jersey is a status symbol, especially if it’s from a limited collection or is a particularly rare, vintage piece. But at the same time, soccer jerseys, especially the Brazil tee, remain relatively accessible. They’re available at a variety of price points, from affordable replicas to premium designs. This accessibility has allowed the trend to reach a wider audience, transcending the financial barriers that often come with exclusive fashion trends. Still, the popularity of the jersey has made it a valuable piece, with certain limited-edition versions becoming collectibles over time.
In the end, the Brazil tank top and soccer jerseys’ broader appeal is multifaceted. For some, it symbolizes national pride and soccer culture; but for others, it’s simply a fashionable, versatile piece of clothing. However, regardless of whether you wear one to support your team or as part of a streetwear ensemble, the Brazil jersey is more than just a garment—it’s a reflection of the global intersection of sports, culture, and fashion.