World Cup 2026 Fashion: Teams Flaunt Style with Animal Prints, Birkin Bags, and Suits!

The World Cup 2026 is not just a showcase of premier soccer talent but also a stage for high fashion. As the tournament unfolds across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 48 participating teams have swapped their casual sportswear for more sophisticated attire, featuring designer brands and vibrant local influences.

This year marks a notable surge in the intersection of soccer and high fashion. Major luxury brands are now outfitting national teams; for instance, Nike collaborated with Jacquemus for France’s travel outfits, while Loewe secured a significant partnership with Spain’s team.

The glitz of the tournament was evident from the start, with Katy Perry dazzling in a silver fringed outfit by Stella McCartney during the opening ceremony at SoFi Stadium.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Stylish Debut

The Democratic Republic of Congo certainly made a grand entrance. Known as Les Léopards, the team landed in Houston wearing bespoke black suits detailed with animal print sashes and cheetah brooches, designed by Congolese designer Alvin Junior Mak, who also created matching travel bags.

This appearance is especially significant as it marks DR Congo’s first participation in the World Cup since 1974, a historic moment for the first sub-Saharan African nation to qualify for the tournament.

France, as expected, also showcased their style prowess. The French team arrived at Boston Logan Airport flaunting an array of high-end designer bags.

Forward Michael Olise was spotted with a large black Hermès Birkin bag, while winger Ousmane Dembélé carried two, one in black and another in tan. The fashion show continued on the tarmac with Marcus Thuram sporting a lime-green Chanel x Pharrell bag, Robin Risser with a Louis Vuitton Keepall, and Rayan Cherki with a sand-colored Hermès Kelly Maxi bag.

Japan and Spain’s Elegant Arrivals

Japan maintained a classic look, continuing their long-standing partnership with British fashion house Dunhill. The Samurai Blue team arrived in navy three-piece suits adorned with silk pocket squares featuring traditional woodblock prints.

Adding a local touch, each player received a cowboy hat from Samuel García, the Governor of Nuevo León, during their welcome in Monterrey.

Spain debuted outfits by Loewe, marking the Madrid-based brand’s first foray into dressing a national team. The ensemble, designed by creative directors Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez (formerly of Proenza Schouler), included tailored suits, polo shirts, leather Puzzle bags, and large Amazona 180 totes.

African Nations Showcase Cultural Heritage

Côte d’Ivoire’s team, known as Les Éléphants, landed in Philadelphia wearing orange-and-yellow tie-dye jackets with the national animal embroidered on the back, a nod to traditional Dida cloth, designed by Ivorian designer Ibrahim Fernandez.

Senegal’s Lions of Teranga carried on their tradition from the Africa Cup of Nations, arriving in stylish gray-and-green outfits crafted by Dakar-based label Xakeb.

The tournament will continue until July 19, leaving the competition open not only for the coveted trophy but also for the unofficial best-dressed title.