As we close out this series on uniform-inspired athlete style, it becomes clear: true fashion influence doesn’t come from excess or trend. It comes from consistency, clarity, and a reverence for identity. The most stylish sportsmen across generations have mastered the art of wearing clothing with intention—making everyday essentials feel like ritual, and simple silhouettes feel iconic.
At Secret Society Studio, our approach to design is deeply shaped by these figures. Their blend of athletic poise and sartorial discipline continues to influence the way we build capsules, uniforms, and identity pieces across industries.
Michael Jordan – The Blueprint of Iconic Confidence
MJ’s impact on style is legendary—not just for his Air Jordans, but for the way he carried himself on and off the court. Suits tailored to athletic builds, tonal layering, and team-branded outerwear defined his look. He moved like someone who knew the power of a clean silhouette and consistent palette. His clothing was confident, never noisy.
Lapo Elkann – Sport, Fashion, and Italian Lineage
Though more businessman than athlete, Lapo embodies sporting elegance through lineage and lifestyle. As the grandson of Fiat’s founder and a lifelong supporter of Ferrari and Juventus, his wardrobe mixes motorsport precision with Italian tailoring. Structured blazers, racing-inspired knits, and crested jackets speak to his role as a modern gentleman of the track.
Paolo Maldini – Football’s Quiet Icon
A career defender for AC Milan, Maldini became a fashion symbol by default. His style is minimal, smart, and never performative. Crisp white shirts, neutral jackets, tailored trousers—he rarely strays from clean, masculine lines. He’s a reminder that style in sport isn’t about standing out—it’s about showing up the same way, every time.
Jean-Claude Killy – Olympic Gold with Alpine Refinement
The French alpine skier turned luxury ambassador, Killy’s post-athletic style embodies mountain elegance. Think turtlenecks, fine knits, structured ski jackets, and quietly branded apparel. His legacy helped define the look of après-ski clubwear—something we continue to reference when designing for winter sports-inspired capsules.
Kelly Slater – Surf Culture with Uniform Discipline
While surf style is often laid-back, Slater’s take is more architectural. His colour choices lean monochromatic, his silhouettes are close but relaxed, and he always looks composed—whether in wetsuit or woven shirt. There’s an attention to material and feel that reflects his respect for nature, performance, and self.
The Final Word on Athletic Style as Uniform Language
Across this three-part series, we've seen that what unites the most stylish athletes isn’t just their sport—it’s their commitment to aesthetic codes. They choose their clothes the way they choose their plays: intentionally, consistently, and with respect for the story they’re telling.
This is exactly how we design at Secret Society Studio. Whether you're building uniforms for a modern club or crafting apparel that aligns with your values, remember this: style rooted in identity lasts far longer than anything seasonal.
Design Like an Icon
Let our studio help you create identity-led garments inspired by the world’s most timeless athletes. Build your collection with us—from the fit to the final thread.
