I've Never Watched Soccer Before: Here's How I'm Styling the Summer of Soccer Aesthetic

This summer, a certain tournament is in town– and not too far from NYC! With the world tuned in to the games, it’s the perfect time to really get into soccer—fútbol, depending on who you ask. There are a few ways to celebrate, from trekking to New Jersey for a match, gathering with friends at a bar, or even dusting off your old cleats.

I, however, will be embracing the summer of soccer in the only way I know how: through
fashion.

While I’ve never been one to watch sports, there is a certain je ne sais quoi to sports culture. Soccer is particularly so popular, so polarizing, and so fascinating that I have no choice but to
get in on the action.

World Cup fashion is somewhat of a sport in itself. Think bright colors, performance wear turned streetwear, and lots of accessories. And what better time to try something new than a New York summer?

Unsure of where to start? I went window shopping in the Meatpacking District for some inspiration.

While I love the look of a soccer jersey, I didn’t really love the idea of buying one just to wear for one event. Instead, I gravitated toward this varsity-style Zadig & Voltaire Boo T-shirt—same idea, but much more wearable.

For bottoms, there are two directions you can go. The Zadig & Voltaire Poma Pants are a chic take on track pants, paying homage to the style with a bold orange stripe down the side. Just sporty enough to wear all summer again. Pair these with cleat-inspired metallic sneakers from Sandro.

Or, lean into the idea of performance wear turned streetwear with these Golden Goose sport shorts. Wear them to the gym for your morning workout, and to the bar at night. For a true fashion statement, pair your shorts with another trend: heels and socks. I love the look of these bright ASICS neon green crew socks worn under Sandro heeled metallic leather mules. Bold enough to be seen from the top of the bleachers, they’re reminiscent of late-night soccer practices.

When it comes to World Cup fashion, accessories make the outfit. I love the Maje chain
belt for a little sparkle. You could even add some of your favorite pins or keychains onto it to show team spirit. Or, use a Zadig & Voltaire scarf as both a belt and a headscarf—it’s another pop of color and surprisingly functional. ANINE BING’s cheetah-print hat adds a bit of pattern and some much needed sun protection. Since cheetah is basically a neutral, there’s no need to pick a team—this one’s just for the vibes.

One of the best investments you can make this summer is a great pair of sunglasses. I love the Zander sunglasses from KREWE—they genuinely look good on everyone.

And of course, what’s an outfit without a bag? The AllSaints Vega Mini Leather Shoulder Bag feels reminiscent of a vintage gym bag, but with sharper edges and that signature AllSaints grunge.

For my favorite part, jewelry is the finishing touch to any great soccer fashion look. Mixing metals
is the way to go here, maximizing the bling and balancing out all the sports energy. Start with the
ANINE BING chunky chain bracelet layered alongside the AllSaints Janna bangle and April
T-bar bracelet. I love a maximalist stack in the summer. The AllSaints Lia chunky necklace is the perfect way to show your heart really does beat for the game (or at least the aesthetic). Top it all off with either the simple AllSaints Hazel pearl hoop earrings or the bolder ANINE BING curved rectangle earrings.

The thing about me is, if there’s a theme and a vibe (and ideally an outfit), I will be there. Just make sure we can get the photo—and that there are snacks nearby.

How are you bringing the World Cup to life with your outfits this summer?

About Caroline Albert
Caroline Albert is a New York City–based publicist and writer with a passion for creative
storytelling and a sharp pulse on the cultural zeitgeist. She specializes in shaping narratives that resonate, connecting brands and audiences through thoughtful, timely communication. All with a touch of her signature tongue-in-cheek humor. Through her Substack, Window Shopping, Caroline channels her love of writing into curated gift guides, founder features, and the discovery of emerging brands, offering readers a fresh and fun perspective on what’s next.