The Lost Art & Production of Soccer Collar Jerseys

Image Source: Bodega

Collars on soccer jerseys? Yeah, they used to be a thing. A big thing, actually. They’ve fallen out of favor in recent years, but they’re making a quiet comeback—at least in conversation. What’s the deal with these old-school design elements, and why did they ever go away?

Why Did Soccer Jersey Collars Fall Out of Style?

Collars started disappearing from the soccer scene in the late '90s and early 2000s. The reason? Performance. Players started voicing their opinions—collars weren’t cutting it. They got in the way, irritated the neck, and added unnecessary bulk. As modern jerseys became lighter and more streamlined, collars just didn’t fit the vibe anymore. 

Technological advancements in fabric design made collars less practical as jerseys became lighter and more breathable, prioritizing comfort and performance. Collars also irritated players during high-speed play, and as fashion shifted toward minimalist, streamlined looks, collars simply fell out of style.

Why Were They Even Used in the First Place?

Collared jerseys weren’t just about looks. Soccer’s early days were all about practicality. The sport was often played in the cold, and collars provided warmth. They weren’t just for style; they served a function, helping to protect players from the cold during winter matches. 

Back then, soccer was more formal, and collared jerseys reflected that "gentlemanly" vibe. Collars were a nod to the sport’s origins, giving teams an easy way to showcase their club colors in a bold, distinctive manner.

Do Collared Jerseys Have Any Advantages Over Non-Collared Ones?

Sure, modern soccer jerseys are all about performance, but collared jerseys still have a bit of charm. They offer more than just nostalgia—they’re versatile and look good both on and off the pitch. Some teams and brands are even experimenting with detachable collars, giving players more customization options. 

The nostalgic factor plays a big role too, connecting today’s fans and players with soccer’s long history. Collars also provide an additional space for creative designs and special edition kits, offering a unique aesthetic appeal.

Iconic Teams Known for Their Collared Jerseys

Some teams rocked the collared look and made it part of their identity. Think Manchester United in the '90s—Eric Cantona’s popped collar became iconic. His bold style turned the collar into more than just a uniform feature, giving it character. 

Image Source: NSS Magazine

Arsenal has also been known for incorporating collars in both classic and modern designs, adding a traditional touch to their jerseys. Real Madrid, too, has embraced collars in some of their most historic kits, using them to enhance their clean, classic look.

Are Collared Jerseys Making a Comeback?

Yep, you read that right—collars might be back in style. Major brands like Adidas are reviving them for special-edition kits. Retro-inspired designs are making waves in sports fashion again, and we’re starting to see collars pop up on anniversary jerseys and throwback collections. 

The cyclical nature of fashion—especially in soccer—suggests that collars could be part of the next big wave in jersey design, combining the old-school vibe with modern performance fabrics.

Soccer Collar Jerseys Aren’t Passé 

Soccer collars may have taken a backseat in recent years, but they’re far from forgotten. Their classic design and potential for innovation mean they could see a resurgence. Whether it’s for style, nostalgia, or just a fresh take, collars are creeping back into the soccer scene. Keep an eye out—you might just see your favorite team rocking one soon.

Maybe someday, we’ll launch our own line of collar jerseys. Of course, our offerings won’t just be for nostalgia—we’ll add our own innovations to ensure that they keep players safe and comfortable as they are stylish. 

Looking for comfortable yet stylish jerseys to maximize your performance? Browse through our selection of soccer jerseys and tops to find your perfect fit.