England Unveils 12-Piece World Cup Wardrobe as Palace Collaboration Sells Out in Days
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 17
England Unveils 12-Piece World Cup Wardrobe as Palace Collaboration Sells Out in Days
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 17
Summary
A 12-piece navy-and-cream Marks & Spencer collection has become England’s off-pitch World Cup uniform, replacing the old three-piece suit with mix-and-match jackets, polos and loafers.
Fashion experts said the look projects a modern, approachable image — “Italian chic” and “very Bond” — while its relaxed tailoring and lack of ties better fit athletes and current smart-casual norms.
Palace and Nike have widened that strategy beyond formal teamwear: England wore a pale grey Palace tracksuit before a Costa Rica friendly and baby blue Nike tracksuits on arrival in the US, with Palace items selling out within days.
The styling is also meant to balance unity with individuality, experts said, helping players look cohesive without elevating one superstar and making the squad feel closer to fans.
Not all reactions were positive — one Times fashion editor called the pale blue tracksuit a “monstrosity” — but the broader push aims to connect with younger audiences as England open their World Cup against Croatia in Dallas.