Every little style aesthetic and fashion trend seems to be dubbed a cute little name these days. And honestly, if you’ve started tuning out the sound of anything to the tune of “___core”, we can’t blame you. BUT there’s one particular ‘core’ we’re getting pretty excited about lately, rooted in a comfy, nostalgic, sportswear-inspired vibe that we can definitely get behind. So excited, in fact, it’s inspired our latest collection of deliciously soft and cool garments that we’re pretty sure are about to become closet staples…
“Blokecore” has been making waves lately, and whether you’re already on board (playing ball or warming benches– we see you) or wondering what the heck this sportswear trend is all about, we want to talk about it!
So, we bring you: the ultimate Blokecore Style Guide. And along with it: the ultimate collection of sports-inspired style, created in celebration of the jersey itself. Here, we'll break down what the term actually means, where it comes from, why it's trending now, and how you can style a killer Blokecore outfit that fits your unique vibe and personal style.
Head in the game? Good, let’s get into it…
What is Blokecore Fashion?
What Does “Blokecore” Mean? And Where Did It Originate?
Basically, blokecore fashion takes its name from the British slang term "bloke," (which pretty much just means ‘dude’), and it's inspired by both the history of the sports jersey and the casual, laid-back style of football (soccer) fans in the UK. Think vintage sports jerseys, collegiate graphic Ts, baggy jeans, track pants, and iconic trainers. And it's not the first time we’re seeing this sporty trend. The blokecore aesthetic in fashion has roots in the 80s and 90s, during a wave when football culture significantly influenced streetwear. Not dissimilar from what we’re seeing right now, and in keeping with that je ne sais quoi of 90’s nostalgia!
Okay, But What Does The Blokecore Aesthetic Look Like?
Today, we are seeing elements of those 80’s and 90’s era styles and silhouettes blend naturally into 2024 fashion trends. When adding classic sports graphics into the equation, the result is all about blending nostalgia, comfort, and a love for the game into a style that's effortlessly cool.
If you wanna get specific, there are some key pieces you’ll find in the sports-inspired style world. First (and most importantly) the jersey and all that’s inspired by the iconic garment across sports, place, and time is central here. You’ll also see the laidback influence of bloke culture in loose-fitting jeans and track pants or jackets. Today, the fashion girls have embraced the aesthetic with running shorts, on-trend footwear, and oversized layers as well. But we’ll chat more about specific bloke-core pieces and how to style them just a few scrolls down…
How Did the Sports Jersey Become So Cool?
Sports jerseys have come a long way from the pitch to the streets. Initially created for athletes intending movement and team distinction, jerseys soon became fan favorites, symbolizing team spirit and sporty style. Over time, they were adopted by various subcultures and turned into everyday fashion staples. Hence, how we got here! Blokecore celebrates this history by bringing vintage jerseys back into the limelight.
When Sports Sneak Their Way into Pop Culture…
Sports and pop culture are having a major moment right now. From all things tennis and the movie "Challengers," starring Zendaya, to the headline-grabbing romance of Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce, the entertainment world can’t seem to shake sports. And as things tend to go, these cultural crossovers are making sports fashion hotter than ever.
Of course, sportswear-inspired looks making the rounds is also thanks to influencers and celebs. Bella Hadid blokecore is often the blueprint when we imagine how the look is applied to contemporary style. From track pants with baby tees to the tucking an oversized jersey into micro shorts, she perfectly captures that effortlessly cool essence.
And the fun little flirtation we’re seeing between sports and fashion is far from over. In fact, we’d imagine nothing more prepared to keep it in full swing than a Summer 2024 Olympics in Paris. In the global fashion capital, the whole world is watching— and some of us are taking notes.
How to Wear Blokecore Style
Okay–now that we’re all on the same page, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty. This Blokecore style guide is for sports fans, athletes off duty, and lovers of sporty-casual looks alike. Everyone is a first-round draft pick as far as rad sporty style is concerned. As goes for any style guide: take what resonates and mix it up to create a style that's uniquely you.
Best Sportswear-Inspired Outfits, Piece-by-Piece
To nail the sportswear-inspired look, here are some examples of key pieces you could reach for:
- The Jersey (And the Jersey-Inspired Top): Ah, the heart and soul of Blokecore. These jerseys are bold, colorful, and full of character. And the fashion world is using the classic sports uniform to inspire some really fun pieces. Graphic soccer tees, for example, are super cute, versatile, and easy to style with shorts or skirts. Collegiate graphics can always contribute to a cool, nostalgic option too.
- Baggy Jeans or Track Pants: Relaxed fit denim that screams comfort and style is always a nice touch on this look. Or of course, track pants with key aesthetic identifiers like a doubles stripe are such a cool, comfy take on the sporty-chic outfit.
- Bomber Jackets and Track Tops: When it comes to layers, think varsity, baggy rugby sweaters, and hockey-inspired long sleeves. Add an extra layer of both warmth and cool, if you will.
- Running Shorts and Boxer Shorts: These have been everywhere lately. And we can’t complain– they basically feel like PJs. Pair it with any of the aforementioned statement sporty tops and add sneakers and some simple jewelry for a perfect relaxed, sporty look.
- Sneakers: If there is one shoe for the blokecore style aesthetic, it is the sneaker. And if there is one sneaker, of course, the Adidas Sambas has been reigning it-shoe for a while now. But, the world of sneakers is fun and personal. Remember that the style everyone has is not necessarily what you “need”.
For some fab pieces that bring the history of the jersey to modern-day looks, check out our Benchwarmers collection. We curated looks from an oversized jersey tee that screams “Karma is the guy on the chiefs” to a vintage-inspired graphic baby tee with a super flattering cut, perfect for nailing your own take on the Blokecore vibe.
Key Styling Tips for Blokecore Outfits
It’s not just about buying all the pieces to match the fit. It’s about noticing what you’re gravitating toward and working it into your authentic, personal style. Here are a couple of tricks out our personal blokecore playbook…
Play Up the Graphics and Colors: Go bold with vibrant colors and graphics. This is what makes the sporty vibe so fun. Every color, stripe, and number is there on purpose. Play it up!
Mix with Other Aesthetics: Combine Blokecore pieces with elements from other styles to create a look that's all yours. It’s so cool to see the unexpected ways people have been styling garments as classic as the jersey.
Comfort is Key: This not only feels good but helps to achieve the laissez-faire vibe.
Add Jewelry and Accessories: This part can help take it from a comfy look to a comfy-cool, comfy-chic look. A good shoulder bag, the right socks, a pair of sunnies, and some jewelry just makes it all look more intentional.
Incorporating Trends into Your Personal Style
Sports and sports fan attire- at its roots- has so much to do with identifying oneself within a community and is wrapped up in these amazing traditions of personalization. So, this look is best paired with fun ways to really make it your own. And no, you don’t have to wear that one Brazil top to build your blokecore wardrobe. When you’re taking inspiration from any fashion trends, it’s so important to thoughtfully integrate an aesthetic in a way that resonates with your personal style. When we’re mindful about choosing pieces that can hang with what’s already in your closet, we ensure they’ll be well-loved for years to come.
For instance, if you’re already a graphic tee enthusiast, start by playing around with adding the collegiate graphic or sporty double stripe.
Remember– the best looks come from a place of getting playful with personal expression. Maybe you pair a graphic soccer tee with a super feminine skirt. Or layer a sporty baby tee and boxer shorts under a chic blazer. Don’t be shy here: experiment with different combos. That’s how the most stylish people we know are rocking these sports-inspired fashion trends.
Tricks For Mixing this Aesthetic With Your Personal Style:
Layering: Classic sport-style piece can add depth and ‘cool’ to what you already have on hand with bomber jackets or track tops.
Customize Your Jerseys: Personalize with patches or embroidery.
Mix High and Low: Pair vintage sportswear or oversized sporty tees with some chic, elevated shoes or bags.
Experiment with jewelry: On that note–jewelry and accessories are such a key tool in tying things together. Elevate the comfiest look with some gold hoops or define your edge with silver rings and voila: a fit.
So here’s the scoop on blokecore: If you’re into bold graphics and colors with a nostalgic vibe, love being the comfiest person in the room while looking the coolest, or feel your best with a dash of sporty spice… this aesthetic might be for you. And if it all just seems a little overwhelming (or even if you’re sitting there saying “Put me in coach”) Daydreamer’s Benchwarmers collection is a great place to start. We are sporting our finest and turning heads on and off the sidelines with this one. Let’s play👏 ball👏!!