As a Fashion Editor who is passionate about football, here are 5 trendy styles you should be aware of to become a World Cup expert.

      Few experiences rival the thrill of a World Cup summer, and with the 2026 FIFA World Cup in full swing, whether you're a devoted football aficionado or a so-called "glory hunter," the tournament guarantees a season filled with lively watch parties and excitement. Football and fashion, while distinct industries, are closely connected. The culture around football and its fans has developed a unique style that resonates with personal flair and team spirit. Trends arising from both spheres feel more refreshing and distinctive than ever. Credit goes to designers like Martine Rose, Grace Wales Bonner, Priya Ahluwalia, and Conner Ives, who have long drawn inspiration from football kits and fan fashion, leading the way in demonstrating that showing support can transcend the traditional football fan look that usually revolves around team merchandise. Personalization now extends beyond just adding your name to the back of an official England jersey, and your options go well beyond choosing between home and away kits. Notably, these designers have fostered a sense of inclusivity in the sport. When it comes to football fashion, personalization nowadays means more than simply putting your name on an official England shirt; there are countless ways to express your support in a manner that feels uniquely 'you'.

      Vintage football shirts have been a staple for supporters seeking an alternative style for quite some time, but with a staggering 840% increase in searches for "World Cup Shirt" on Pinterest, interest has surged. Independent brands, often spearheaded by female designers like Hattie Crowther, Nicole Chui, Sophie Hird Studio, and Renata Brenha, are redefining traditional football aesthetics, making them feel one-of-a-kind (often their creations are unique) or hyper-feminine. Playful slogan tees adorned with phrases like "the ref can't hear you babe" and "I just want both teams to have fun" cater to those who enjoy Y2K styles or prefer a lighter, more humorous approach. Additionally, many brands now offer 'football inspired' clothing that captures the vibe without being tied to any specific club. From Acne Studios to Miaou, Adidas, and ASOS, you can display your allegiance as readily for your favorite brand as for your favorite team. Even Harry Styles’ tour merchandise embraces this style. This shift encourages greater self-expression: pink! polka dots! personalization! Whatever your preference, there’s probably a football jersey that suits you.

      Styling your football shirt often comes up as a common inquiry. My honest advice is to treat it like any other top in your wardrobe—just because it's visually more striking than a plain white tee doesn't mean you can't style it in the same way. Sure, pairing it with jeans and sneakers works, but why not get creative? Lace midi skirts, capris, and thong sandals layered over dresses add a fun twist! Embrace the glam! Also, expand your horizon beyond just jerseys. Sports shorts, whether short and sleek like Harry Styles’ or longer Bermuda styles, are currently trending. Don't overlook football socks, sports jackets, track pants, and graphic wool jumpers—there's a wealth of options beyond the classic shirt. Pay attention to beauty and accessories as well—consider scrunchies, scarves, jewelry, or even nail art and tooth gems. The bottom line? There are no real limitations... or should we say, nothing off the pitch? So whether you’re backing England, a different team, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s a multitude of choices. Here are the key football fashion trends to keep in mind, along with the best items to shop before the FIFA World Cup 2026.

      1. The WAG Is Back

      Football culture extends beyond the players; it often highlights their wives and girlfriends. The pinnacle of WAG culture emerged during the 2006 World Cup in Baden-Baden, Germany, where figures like Coleen Rooney, Cheryl Cole, Abbey Clancy, and the iconic Victoria Beckham became synonymous with the tournament. They garnered tabloid attention, stirred up the local scene with their partying and shopping, and were generally perceived as a distraction. If you’re a fan of the Y2K era, these original WAGs can serve as the perfect inspiration for supporting our team this summer. Think oversized sunglasses, baby tees and tank tops with cheeky slogans, mini skirts, and a healthy amount of lip gloss—styles that remain just as important now as they did back then. And while it has been 20 years since that time, we are witnessing a resurgence with WAGs 2.0. From Tolami Benson, Saka's fiancée, to Gabrielle Figueiredo, the wife of Arsenal and Brazil player Gabriel Magalhães, many fashionable partners are supporting this year, boasting brand deals and social followings. They may not create as much buzz as before but their style is still a major point of interest. Be sure to follow them if you’re not already.

      2. "Mel C-Core"