Third kits are making a comeback in Major League Soccer, with select clubs participating in the 2024 adidas X MLS Archive Collection. Featuring Sporting Kansas City, LA Galaxy, LAFC, Inter Miami CF, and the Portland Timbers, this collection merges retro stylings with modern elements. Not only are these clubs getting third jerseys, but also matching track jackets and stylish pairs of adidas Gazelles for sneaker enthusiasts. The entire production emphasizes the fusion of fashion and sports, catering to fans who want to represent their favorite teams in all aspects of life.
In addition to the new collection, MLS has partnered with fashion stylist Courtney Mays, known for working with basketball stars like Chris Paul and Sue Bird. Mays brings a fresh perspective to the Archive Collection, showcasing how third jerseys and their accompanying apparel can seamlessly blend into contemporary styles and urban visions. Despite being new to soccer, Mays leveraged the nostalgic appeal of soccer jerseys, incorporating retro silhouettes and designs into her work. By featuring real fans, including players like Ryan Hollingshead and families, the collection takes on a more authentic and relatable tone, bridging the gap between sports and fashion.
Each club in the collection receives specific design treatments that reflect their history and city identity. Sporting Kansas City’s throwback jersey pays homage to the team’s early MLS design with a new twist on the rainbow pattern. The LA Galaxy and Portland Timbers also receive unique designs, infusing elements of their past while adding modern flair. LAFC and Inter Miami CF’s jerseys aim to capture the essence of their respective cities, drawing inspiration from ’70s and ’80s color palettes. The attention to detail and storytelling behind each design showcases the commitment to honoring tradition while embracing innovation.
The Fashion Forward Movement
Beyond just serving as sports apparel, these third kits have the potential to make a statement in the fashion world. Mays’ collaboration with MLS highlights the versatility of soccer jerseys as styling tools, opening up new possibilities for incorporating sports attire into everyday wear. With the impressive designs of the Archive Collection, more clubs in the league are encouraged to explore creative avenues in their kit designs. The integration of soccer jerseys into mainstream fashion, as Mays envisions, could lead to seeing them worn by NBA stars and other high-profile figures, further elevating the visibility of American soccer in the sports landscape.
As MLS embraces the intersection of sports and fashion through initiatives like the Archive Collection, the potential for growth and influence within the industry is vast. The resurgence of third kits not only offers fans stylish alternatives to traditional jerseys but also presents opportunities for collaboration with fashion experts and designers. By tapping into the nostalgia and uniqueness of each club’s history, MLS is creating a new platform for creative expression and brand representation. The excitement surrounding the release of these kits signals a shift towards a more fashion-forward approach in sports apparel, setting the stage for further innovation and experimentation in the years to come.