'It's very Bond': Fashion experts on the England squad's off-pitch look
BBC News 2026-06-17 05:52:03
Context: The England men's football team has made a stylish impression off the pitch at the World Cup, donning a mix of smart casual wear and athleisure pieces from official partner Marks & Spencer and skateboarding brand Palace. The team's fashion choices have sparked conversation among fans and fashion experts, who praise the modern, relaxed aesthetic. As the team prepares to take on Croatia in their opening World Cup game in Dallas, their off-pitch style has become a talking point.
Key Facts
- The England squad's off-duty look features a collection of 12 mix-and-match pieces in navy and cream from Marks & Spencer, including loafers and no ties, offering a smart casual alternative to traditional formal wear.
- A collaboration with Nike and skateboarding brand Palace resulted in many items selling out on their launch, with the team wearing a pale grey Palace tracksuit to a pre-World Cup friendly against Costa Rica and baby blue Nike tracksuits upon arrival in the US for the tournament.
- Celebrity stylist Alex Longmore describes the team's overall vibe as "quite commercial" and "very Bond," comparing their slip-ons to boating shoes by Tom Ford and Jimmy Choo, and praising the look as relaxed, wearable, and aspirational.
- Fashion experts note that the team's modular look, with interchangeable pieces, is designed to promote individuality and style, while also showcasing a cohesive group identity and shared values through their consistent and stylish appearance.
- Carolyn Mair, a chartered psychologist and author of The Psychology of Fashion, suggests that the team's uniform look conveys confidence, discernment, and a sense of unity, reducing social distance and making them appear more approachable to fans.