In celebration of Major League Soccer’s first season in 1996, today the League announced a retro-inspired apparel collaboration – Since ’96 – with global fashion licensees Mitchell & Ness, the nation’s leading nostalgia company, and New Era. Featuring 11 clubs, the throwback line of clothing is an ode to MLS’ launch and commemorates the League’s original clubs, along with additional participating clubs.
The Since ’96 collection features a Mitchell & Ness polo, sublimed mesh jersey, ‘90s color-blocked hoodie, a windbreaker jacket, and long-sleeve shirt, as well as four types of hats from New Era: the 950 Jersey Hook, 2930 Ripped, 920 Fan Fave, and the Winter Knit.
“After an amazing 25 years of Major League Soccer, we’re honored to launch our Since ’96 retro collaboration to celebrate the Clubs that laid the League’s foundation for its explosive growth,” said Carter Ladd, MLS SVP.
Featuring 11 clubs – LA Galaxy, Colorado Rapids, Columbus Crew, New England Revolution, Dallas Burn (FC Dallas), D.C. United, Seattle Sounders, The Wiz (Sporting Kansas City), Vancouver 86ers (Whitecaps), Portland Timbers, and San Jose Clash (Earthquakes) – the collection will feature an embossed ‘since ‘96’ hangtag. Clubs established in 1996 will also have a ‘founding club’ embellishment on the garment.
“As the leading sports nostalgic company, Mitchell & Ness is thrilled to be a part of the initial re-launch of the throwback MLS logos,” Kevin Wulff, Mitchell & Ness CEO. “Fans have waited 20+ years to see these marks reintroduced, and we can't wait to deliver this authentic product to market."
Slap bracelets will be available as a gift with purchase at all team stores and will feature the retro club marks in a ‘90’s inspired pattern.
“New Era is excited to partner with MLS and celebrate its legacy by bringing iconic logos to life again through our Since 96 Collection,” said Tom Dickinson of New Era. “Fans will appreciate this product as it embraces the 25-year journey of the league’s rich history.”
The collection is now available in team retail stores, stadiums, Dicks Sporting Goods, and online at MLSstore.com, with apparel prices starting at $30.
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER:
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer features 27 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, in addition to future expansion teams in St. Louis, and Charlotte. For more information about MLS, visit www.MLSsoccer.com.
ABOUT MITCHELL & NESS:
For over 100 years, Mitchell & Ness has been pioneering the resurrection of authentic jerseys and headwear significant to sports history. With licenses from the MLS, NBA, NFL, NCAA, MLB, and expanding our reach with strategic lifestyle brand collaborations, the Mitchell & Ness brand is producing premium apparel and headwear worldwide for the fashion and sports consumer. For more information on Mitchell & Ness, visit www.mitchellandness.com.
