World Cup arrivals have become just as much about fashion as football, with players showcasing tailored looks, luxury watches and designer handbags. From timeless Hermès classics to statement-making pieces, footballers proved that the luxury bag has become an essential part of the modern man’s wardrobe.
Once, the briefcase was the defining accessory of the well-dressed man. Today footballers are embracing a wider and more expressive approach to luxury, carrying Birkins, structured totes and designer travel bags with the same confidence once reserved for traditional leather cases. The World Cup offered plenty of examples of how today’s footballers are redefining men’s luxury accessories.
Hermès remained the standout brand throughout the tournament, with Dembélé, Haaland, Messi and Camavinga all opting for bags from the French fashion house. Renowned for exceptional craftsmanship, quality and exclusivity, Hermès has become one of the ultimate status symbols in luxury fashion. Among the silhouettes spotted were the Haut à Courroies (HAC), Kelly and Birkin, proving that these iconic designs are no longer confined to women’s wardrobes.
Louis Vuitton’s roots in luxury travel make it a natural choice for footballers constantly moving between clubs, international fixtures and tournaments. Originally founded as a trunk maker in 1854, the house has built its reputation around refined travel pieces. Jude Bellingham’s monogrammed Louis Vuitton bag perfectly balanced practicality with timeless style.
Gucci also made an appearance at the tournament, with Lamine Yamal carrying the Mini Gucci Horsebit 1955 bag ahead of the final between Spain and Argentina. One of the Italian fashion house’s most recognisable designs.
For those favouring a more understated aesthetic, Bottega Veneta offered a quiet luxury alternative. Recognisable through its signature Intrecciato woven leather rather than prominent logos, the brand has become synonymous with discreet sophistication. Cyril Ngonge’s choice reflected the growing appeal of subtle luxury over overt branding.
Perhaps the biggest surprise was Chanel. Traditionally associated with womenswear, the French fashion house has increasingly found its way into men’s wardrobes through vintage pieces, accessories and celebrity styling. At this year’s tournament, Dembélé and Lamine Yamal embraced the brand with confidence, showing how traditional fashion boundaries continue to blur.
Once defined by leather briefcases and business cases, men’s luxury accessories have evolved into something far more expressive. The modern footballer isn’t simply travelling with a bag, he’s making a style statement before he even reaches the changing room.
By Sayhrah Noor Asif-Ali
