The Charm of the Collared Soccer Jersey: Where Sport Meets Sophistication

Update Date:2026-02-15 •Reading 3

In the diverse world of football apparel, the collared soccer jersey occupies a special place. While most modern kits opt for sleek, aerodynamic V-necks or crew necks, the jersey with a collar—often referred to as the "Polo style"—represents a bridge between high-intensity sport and refined casual fashion.

Whether you are looking for a vintage soccer jersey or a modern kit with a classic twist, the collar adds an undeniable layer of "class" that stands out on the pitch and the street.


1. The Heritage of the Collar: From Cantona to Zidane
The soccer jersey with collar reached its peak during the 1990s. Who could forget Eric Cantona popping his collar at Manchester United, a gesture that came to symbolize defiance and flair? Or Zinedine Zidane leading France to World Cup glory in a collared masterpiece?

The Polo Influence: Historically, collars were added to make the players look more like "gentlemen" on the field, mirroring the aesthetic of tennis and rugby.Symbolism: A collar often signals a club's respect for its history and a commitment to traditional elegance.


2. The 2025 Comeback: Why it’s Trending Again
In the 2024/25 season, we have seen a massive resurgence of the collared soccer jersey. Major brands like Adidas and Nike are reintroducing polo collars for top clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal, and AC Milan.

Streetwear Appeal: The collar makes the jersey much easier to wear in non-sporting environments. It looks less like "activewear" and more like a high-end polo shirt.Texture and Detail: Modern collared kits often feature intricate tipping on the edges and hidden buttons, adding a level of detail that "basic" kits lack.


3. Styling Your Collared Jersey (The Blokecore Way)
The collared soccer jersey is the ultimate weapon for the "Blokecore" aesthetic. Because it has a collar, it pairs exceptionally well with layers:

Under a Blazer: Wear a clean white or navy collared jersey under a structured blazer for a sophisticated "Sports-Luxe" look.Retro Vibes: Pair a baggy vintage soccer jersey with straight-leg denim and loafers to capture the authentic 90s terrace look.Fully Buttoned: For a sharp, modern appearance, button the collar all the way to the top and wear it with slim-fit chinos.


4. Maintenance: Protecting the Shape
The biggest challenge with a soccer jersey with collar is keeping the collar crisp.

Wash Inside Out: This prevents the collar points from fraying against the machine drum.Air Dry on a Hanger: Never tumble dry. Use a plastic hanger to ensure the collar sets in its natural position as it dries.Steam, Don't Iron: If the collar becomes floppy, use a garment steamer rather than a flat iron to avoid damaging the synthetic polyester fibers.


Conclusion: A Timeless Classic

The collared soccer jersey is a reminder that football is as much about style as it is about goals. If you want a kit that works as well at a weekend brunch as it does in the stadium, the "Polo" style is your best investment.