While soccer jerseys of the 1980’s and 90’s were full of energy and interest, the years that followed brought an era of lackluster designs. Jerseys of the 2000’s were untethered from team culture or tradition. They featured excessive amounts of neon and clashing gradients, or worse, they were just plain boring. Beyond the unsightliness, the perception of soccer jerseys was that they were meant to be worn on the pitch—not off it. Jerseys were athletic wear, not streetwear. Yet over the last few years, some teams and brands have reimagined. Revitalized retro styles, an emphasis on team heritage and culture, and an influx of streetwear and high fashion collaborations have changed the industry.

Beyond the Pitch is a visual guide that explores the influence of streetwear and fashion on soccer jersey design over these past three years of transformation as kits have evolved to have a life beyond the pitch. Each page covers an innovative collaboration, collection or individual kit that shaped the industry and laid the groundwork for the revolution of jersey design we’re experiencing today.