Cut From an Ever-Changing Cloth: The History of Soccer Jerseys

Image Source: Chicago Sun Times

Ready to take a quick journey through soccer jersey history? Spoiler alert: they've come a long way from baggy shirts and heavy fabrics to the sleek, high-tech kits we see today. Soccer jerseys started as simple, functional garments, but as the game evolved, so did the kits. Today, they're symbols of pride, sponsorship, and even fashion statements. Let's break down how soccer jerseys transformed through the decades and why they look the way they do now.

Late 19th Century - Early 1900s: The Very Beginning

Back in the Victorian era, soccer jerseys weren't really "jerseys" as we know them. Players used to wear long trousers, plain white shirts, and colorful scarves or caps to show which team they were on. Yup, that's right—caps on the field! In 1872, during the first international match between England and Scotland, the teams were only distinguished by headwear. By the 1870s, though, teams started wearing more uniform outfits to make it easier to tell who was who, often choosing colors tied to their schools or clubs.

1900s-1920s: Jerseys Start to Take Shape

The early 1900s brought a little more structure to soccer uniforms. Jerseys were made from heavy cotton—durable, yes, but not great for movement or bad weather. Players would be dragging around soaked shirts on rainy days. In the 1920s, teams began experimenting with adding numbers to jerseys, helping fans and referees easily spot who was who on the field. This era is when soccer jerseys started looking more like, well, jerseys, but they were still pretty simple—solid colors, long sleeves, and basic designs.

1950s: Enter the "Continental Style"

The 1950s saw jerseys becoming more tailored and fashionable. This period introduced what was known as the "continental style." Clubs like Real Madrid adopted their iconic all-white kits, though the reasons for this choice are varied. For the first time, jerseys started featuring club badges, adding a bit of flair. Soccer kits were no longer just uniforms—they were starting to represent the clubs' identities and traditions.

1960s-1970s: Synthetic Fabrics Change the Game

Things really picked up in the 1960s and 1970s when synthetic fabrics like polyester started popping up. Jerseys became lighter and more breathable—players could finally say goodbye to those sweat-heavy cotton shirts.

The 1970s also kicked off the era of commercialization, with brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma stepping onto the scene. They weren't just making gear; they were branding entire teams. It wasn't long before sponsors wanted a piece of the action, with logos starting to appear on shirts.

1980s-1990s: Bold Designs and Big Brands

By the 1980s, soccer jerseys had gone full-on commercial. Not only were big brands plastering their logos on kits, but teams were also experimenting with bold, colorful designs. The simple, clean looks of the past were replaced by pinstripes, patterns, and brand-specific details. Sponsorship deals grew, too, with companies paying big bucks to get their names on the backs (and fronts) of players across the globe.

2000s-Present: High-Tech Fabrics and Sustainable Trends

In the 2000s, soccer jerseys became more than just a uniform—they became pieces of high-tech sports gear. Modern kits are made from advanced synthetic materials designed to wick away sweat, regulate body temperature, and enhance performance.

In the past decade, sustainability has become a big focus, with brands using recycled materials and eco-friendly processes to create jerseys. Many teams now sport kits made from recycled materials, contributing to environmental efforts. 

Some teams are even using their kits to pay homage to culture and music. Ajax's 2021-2022 third kit, inspired by Bob Marley, showed how modern kits can incorporate elements beyond traditional club colors.

Soccer Jerseys: An Important Piece of Fabric in Soccer Apparel History

Soccer jerseys have gone from heavy, simple garments to the stylish, high-performance gear we see today. They're more than just something players wear—they're a blend of technology, fashion, and team pride, evolving with the game every step of the way.

Here at Storelli, we’re part of this jersey evolution. For well over a decade, we have produced a wide range of soccer jerseys and tops that incorporate modern technology to maximize comfort and performance. From moisture-wicking fabrics to impact-absorbing materials, our jerseys help players unleash their full potential while redefining what soccer jerseys can do.