Completing the breakdown of the 30 bespoke looks at our On A Plate event in Atlanta, stylist Rebecca Tsuki gives us the inspirations behind the designs.
Merging soccer culture with high fashion, ON A PLATE Atlanta showcased the power of creativity in a groundbreaking way. This exclusive runway event, curated by stylist Rebecca Tsuki, redefined the intersection of football and fashion, unveiling the latest MLS jerseys for the 2025 season. Each design was meticulously crafted to honour the essence of the jerseys while transforming them for the runway. The result? Bold, innovative pieces that exemplify the ongoing evolution of football fashion. Building on our conversation with Tsuki, we take a closer look at the inspiration behind each unique design, counting down from 2009 to 2024, following on from part 1, which focussed on 1995 to 2009.
2009 – Philadelphia Union
The kit’s lightning motif references Benjamin Franklin’s key experiment, symbolizing a revolution. The bold bolt design, influenced by Philadelphia’s vibrant street art scene, is further amplified through textured, graffiti-inspired techniques like glue washing.
2010 – Portland Timbers
Celebrating the club’s 50th anniversary, this jersey features gold-accented tonal patterns inspired by tree rings. The cross-section of wood mirrors the club’s deep-rooted history, tying nature and legacy into the design.
2011 – Vancouver Whitecaps
Inspired by the never-ending continuity of the community, this design utilizes repeated jersey elements to craft a seamless, infinite piece, reinforcing unity and resilience.
2012 – CF Montreal
Referencing Miguel Adrova’s Fall 2012 collection—the first upcycled football collection—this look embraces sustainability and reinvention.
2013 – NYCFC
Drawing from Moncler’s 2013 ice show, this ensemble embraces an iced-out aesthetic, incorporating metallic and reflective elements to create a winter-inspired vision.
2014 – Orlando City
Reflecting Florida’s dramatic weather, this kit takes inspiration from The Perfect Storm—a phenomenon where converging sea breezes create intense conditions. The exaggerated, wind-like effect is achieved through a handmade flared skirt crafted from jerseys.
2015 – Atlanta United
A sleek, structured look inspired by Givenchy, channeling bold sophistication and high fashion aesthetics.
2016 – Minnesota United
Symbolising the confluence of the city’s two rivers, this flowing silhouette mimics the movement of water, creating a dynamic, fluid look.
2017 – LAFC
Embodying the club’s signature black and gold, this design takes cues from royal color palettes and wedding attire. Inspired by Louis Vuitton and Virgil Abloh, the look exudes luxury and exclusivity.
2018 – FC Cincinnati
This outfit is a nod to Vetements’ football-inspired collaboration, merging streetwear with sports culture.
2019 – Inter Miami
The club’s logo features two great white herons with interlocked legs forming an “M.” The model’s heron-like stride and a striking pink wig enhance this avian-inspired vision.
2020 – Nashville SC
A modern aesthetic infused with the club’s tagline boldly sprayed across the chest, embodying an edgy, urban feel.
2021 – Austin FC
Taking cues from Jeremy Scott, this look includes a custom beret, blazer, and bag, all repurposed from the team jersey to create a high-fashion ensemble.
2022 – Charlotte FC
Inspired by medieval knights’ armour—symbolising protection of the Queen—this design features embossed patterns and regal details, capturing the essence of a royal affair.
2023 – St. Louis City SC
A dramatic, fashion-forward look influenced by Balenciaga, embodying oversized silhouettes and avant-garde styling.
2024 – San Diego FC
Playing into the club’s chrome branding and woven tagline, this design reimagines jerseys into a custom interlocked jacket and pant set, merging futurism with craftsmanship.
Next: onto LA!
