Third kits are making a comeback in Major League Soccer, with five clubs being featured in the 2024 adidas X MLS Archive Collection. Sporting Kansas City, LA Galaxy, LAFC, Inter Miami CF, and the Portland Timbers are all part of this collection, which brings retro stylings into the modern era. Each club is not only getting a third jersey but also a matching track jacket and adidas Gazelles sneakers in corresponding kit colors. This collection embraces the fashion element of the game, making the jerseys and gear wearable both on and off the pitch.
Courtney Mays, a fashion stylist who has worked with basketball stars like Chris Paul and Sue Bird, played a significant role in this partnership between MLS and adidas. Styled by Mays, the Archive Collection showcases how the third jerseys and their accompanying elements align with modern styles and represent the cities they embody. Mays found inspiration in the silhouette of soccer jerseys, describing them as cool and nostalgic. Despite being new to soccer, Mays successfully tailored looks that resonate with fans by celebrating retro styles and team traditions.
Rather than using professional models, the collection features real fans, including players like LAFC’s Ryan Hollingshead and his family. Mays was intentional about working with authentic individuals to create genuine connections with the teams and their communities. The collection highlights unique designs, such as the Kansas City Wizards throwback jersey, which integrates the team’s iconic rainbow motif in a fresh and innovative way. Similarly, the Galaxy and Timbers receive updated designs that pay homage to their histories while infusing contemporary elements.
City Vibes and Cultural Significance
The Archive Collection delves into the history and identity of each club, incorporating elements that reflect the cities’ past and present. From Portland’s vintage crest to LA’s retro-inspired split design, the jerseys capture the essence of their respective locations. Miami and LAFC’s designs encapsulate the spirit of their cities, drawing inspiration from iconic eras and color palettes. Mays’ deep dive into each club’s heritage infuses storytelling and authenticity into the collection, emphasizing the connection between fashion, sports, and culture.
The impact of the Archive Collection extends beyond the soccer pitch, with Mays envisioning how these jerseys can transcend traditional sports apparel. By integrating soccer kits into mainstream fashion, Mays sees the potential for widespread adoption of these stylish designs. The collaboration between MLS, adidas, and Mays signifies a shift towards innovative and inclusive fashion within the sports industry. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of the third kits, the fashion world is abuzz with excitement over the creative possibilities these jerseys present.
A Promising Future
With the resurgence of third kits in MLS, there is a sense of revitalization and creativity sweeping through the league. The intricate designs, thoughtful storytelling, and genuine connections forged by the Archive Collection set a new standard for sports fashion collaborations. As more clubs embrace this trend, there is a growing recognition of soccer jerseys as versatile and dynamic pieces that transcend their athletic origins. The fusion of sports, fashion, and culture exemplified by the Archive Collection paves the way for a bold and exciting future in the world of sports apparel.
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