Clearly, this is the summer of soccer. Of course, there’s the behemoth that is the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including six matches hosted in Toronto in June and July. But also AFC Toronto — the city’s professional women’s soccer club — started their Northern Super League season back in April, while the Toronto FC are kicking their way through their 21st season.
In recent years, we’ve seen the rise of sporting events doubling as personal style arenas for both athletes and spectators across the NBA and WNBA, NHL and Formula One, for starters. But fashion is nothing new in soccer.
Football casualwear of the ‘80s served as the inspo for the recent “blokecore” esthetic; David and Victoria Beckham’s looks wowed the world in the late ’90s and early 2000s; and Spanish coach Pep Guardiola has been known to don cult-favourite designer Rick Owens on the sidelines. Then there are the team fashion partnerships, like Paris Saint-Germain and Dior, Real Madrid and Louis Vuitton and most recently, Liverpool FC and Tommy Hilfiger.
Across the pond, match-day style leans quite smart. Tailored coats over jerseys, stylish sneakers and statement outerwear are staples in Europe, said Kaela Hansen, a defender for AFC Toronto. “[Here], you’ll see more casual, relaxed ‘fits, but the creativity is growing every season!” she said.
If you’re wondering what to wear to watch the World Cup (or really any game), we asked Hansen and more fashionable soccer personalities for ideas to take your style into goal-scoring territory.
Melanie Pace, stylist and wife of player Richie Laryea
How would you describe your relationship to soccer?
“[I] married into the soccer life and now it is the foundation of our everyday decisions. I call it the crazy beautiful chaos and try to think about these being the best experiences for us and our kids. My favourite part though is I get to watch a mini Richie love the game just as much as his dad does!”
Who are your teams?
“I’m American but I’m Team Canada and TFC! I support whoever Richie plays for.”
How will you be celebrating the World Cup?
“Honestly, I don’t think there’s anything more special than having the World Cup in the city my husband grew up in, while also getting to watch him be part of it. Toronto already means so much to our family, so seeing it host something this big feels really emotional and exciting. I’m most looking forward to the energy in the city, celebrating with family and friends and just taking in a moment that is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
What’s the overall style vibe at a soccer game?
“Well, this all depends on the weather! We have so many freezing games in the beginning of the season so it’s puffer coats, scarves, mittens and lots of layers! Most of the time it’s all team spirit gear. The rest of the season I see a lot of jerseys styled in different ways, fan scarves and comfortable outfits.”
What do you like to wear to a soccer game?
“I usually tend to grab a pair of pants — jeans, cargos, black trousers — and style from there. Occasionally, when it’s really hot I’ll wear a skirt, but only if I have a longer blazer or jacket that keeps it from flying up! Blazers, bombers or leather jackets are a must. And a pop of something team spirit: hats are always an easy item to pull that off.”
What do you recommend a first-timer wear to a game?
“Jerseys are fun and for obvious reasons: support your team! You can style them in so many ways. If you don’t want to commit to a full jersey look, try all black or neutral colours and wear a pop of team colours on your shoes or a bandana wrapped around your neck.”
Kaela Hansen, soccer player for AFC Toronto
When you’re not playing, who are your team(s)?
“I watch a little bit of everything; I’ll tune into National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) games, not only watching my old teammates play, but to watch the competitiveness, speed and grit that the league brings. I also like to watch the Women’s Super League (WSL). Teams like Chelsea and Man United that bring consistency, creativity and tactical discipline make it fun to watch. And I’ll always support the teams I’ve played for — you don’t lose that loyalty.”
How will you be celebrating the World Cup?
“Being in Toronto during the World Cup is going to be an incredible experience. As a professional player, I’m really looking forward to being around that level of competition and soaking in the atmosphere of such a major global event. I’ll be spending time with teammates and friends, watching matches and just taking in the energy of the city. I think what I’m most excited for is seeing the game continue to grow on such a big stage and being inspired by the level of play — it’s a reminder of what we’re all working toward.”
What’s the style vibe at a soccer game?
“Effortlessly cool. It’s expressive but not overly polished. You see everything from head-to-toe kit looks to elevated streetwear layered with team pieces. Scarves are iconic — they’re practical, but they’re also symbolic. There’s a confidence in how fans dress. It’s less about dressing up and more about dressing with intention.”
What do you like to wear to a soccer game?
“For me, the arrival outfit sets the tone. When I feel put-together walking in, it carries into how I warm up, how I compete. Style is an extension of mindset — and on game day, mindset is everything.
I love contrast; something structured or tight paired with something relaxed and loose. It keeps the look effortless but stylish. Accessories are where I bring in personality: a great pair of sunglasses, simple gold hoops or layered chains.”
What do you recommend a first-timer wear to a game?
“Check the weather! Soccer is an outdoor sport and conditions change quickly. Start with comfortable basics: loose fit jeans or tailored trousers you can sit and move in easily, a breathable top or basic tee and a versatile jacket. Shoes are also important. I would say sneakers would be the best way to go. Leave anything delicate at home — there’s a lot of walking and celebrating. Most importantly, wear something that lets you participate fully. You’ll be standing, singing, reacting. The best game-day outfits don’t restrict you, they let you be part of the moment.”
Katarina Mogus, content creator
How would you describe your relationship to soccer?
“I grew up playing and even played semi-pro, then studied sports management and worked in professional sports, so I’ve been connected to the game from a lot of different angles. And as a Croatian-Canadian, it’s also a big part of my culture and community.”
Who are your teams?
“Toronto FC and Croatia national soccer team.”
How will you be celebrating the World Cup?
“I’m so excited to celebrate the World Cup in Toronto, especially watching the Croatia games here. The Croatian-Canadian community in the GTA is huge, so it’s going to be so fun seeing everyone come together and celebrate our culture through the love of the game.”
What’s the overall style vibe at a soccer game?
“The vibe is really spirited, colour-coordinated and fun. Everyone is wearing their team colours, and people add little details to match, so the whole stadium feels really energetic and unified. It’s a fun mix of sporty and stylish.”
What do you like to wear to a soccer game?
“I usually start with a jersey and then style it in a way that feels a bit more polished or feminine, like pairing it with a skirt or cute matching sneakers. I also love to colour co-ordinate with accessories, like a matching bag or sneakers, to tie the whole look together. For me, the fun part is balancing the team spirit with something a little more styled, so you feel part of the energy of the game while still expressing your personal style.”
What do you recommend a first-timer wear to a game?
“Start with a jersey so you feel part of the energy right away. Comfort is key, so I’d go for something sporty and easy like sneakers and a relaxed outfit. You can always grab a team hat at the stadium and wear the team colours too. You want to be able to really be in the moment — cheering for your team, standing up, celebrating goals and just enjoying the atmosphere of the game.”
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