Overview:
As Haiti participates in the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, a wave of Haitian and Haitian American designers has released their own takes on the national soccer jersey, blending pride, storytelling and style.
Saeta has provided the Haiti soccer kit for over 5 years but this year, as Haiti plays in the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, there are several additional versions of the home team’s jersey. The Haitian community is excited about the game, but they’re also looking for fashionable pieces to celebrate this win. Here are seven that stand out.
PStudio’s artistic goal
Photo courtesy of Pierre Jean-Baptiste.
Brooklyn-bred Haitian-American painter and artist Pierre Jean-Baptiste’s tee is a reflection of his own artwork. He took a photo of his original painting and turned it into wearable art. While not quite a jersey, Jean-Baptiste’s version of the celebration is a reflection of his desire to, “open conversations about Haiti” he told The Haitian Times via text message.
His limited-edition Haiti Dreamer tee comes in long and short-sleeves options. The front reads “For the Love of Ayiti”. Jean-Baptiste created something he wanted to see every day and notes that, “as an artist it is important for us to show the times, and this is my contribution.”
Brooklyn Circus’ old school take
Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Circus.
Ouigi Theodore, Founder of Brooklyn Circus, has never shied away from his Haitian roots. Having previously popularized a Haiti jersey made in Haiti, this new one is slightly different. It is reminiscent of the previous generation’s style: short-sleeved, styled, tucked in with loafers to cap off a classic silhouette. The beige paneling gives it a nostalgic feel, while the date 1804 directly references the Haitian Revolution.
Theodore told the Haitian Times via email that his approach to this project is similar to the approach he took to the varsity jacket over 20 years ago. “It was as much about style as it was character — the intersection of sports and life. A canvas to tell these true stories that needed a bigger voice.”
Stella Jean remixes the style
Photo courtesy of Stella Jean.
Stella Jean, a Haitian-Italian designer, has built her career on bold pattern mixing. Her iteration of the Haitian soccer jersey is no different. The jerseys from this special edition are colorful and hand-stitched.
This is a welcome surprise after she “won” the Olympics with her revolution-inspired gear. Jean also leverages the power of time. Instead of emphasizing the year Haiti claimed its independence, she features the number “26” on the back “marking the year of rebirth.”
Gade Vedette does not mince words
Photo courtesy of Gade Vedette.
Gade Vedette’s bi-color top takes on a contemporary rugby polo look, available in three different styles. This option is not explicitly a soccer jersey, but it establishes itself and what it stands for boldly. Founder Ghandi Leveille told the Haitian Times via email that Gade Vedette “wanted something that you can wear anywhere and represent. Just like you can walk down the street and see someone wearing apparel from their favorite sports team or college, or someone wearing a Brazil or Jamaica shirt even though they’re not from there.”
Gade Vedette uses the coat of arms, the flag’s bicolors, and a large-scale print of “Haiti” to ensure onlookers know which team you’re on.
“I feel especially right now in the state of the world where the narrative the U.S. government is trying to spin about Haiti and Haitians, it’s imperative that we still stand and represent with pride,” Leveille said.
Vinshēk Checks the Timeline
Photo courtesy of Vinshēk
Vinshēk, a clothing line established by Haitian designer Garvenchy Nicolas, also adds the latest date to his iteration of the jersey, showing the first and most recent times Haiti has qualified for the World Cup.
He shared with the Haitian Times via text that, “the main inspiration is having a piece that not only celebrates the Grenadiers of 1974 but also what we call the New Immortals of 2026. It’s celebrating both teams.”
Nicolas also offers a bodysuit, socks and sneakers. Nicolas does many things with this jersey: focuses on Emannuel “Manno” Sanon, the Haitian striker who scored against Italy in 1973, created with performance-based fabric but also designs with a modern air and ensures that a story is told through his clothing, “we approach everything as storytelling, and we want to tell the story of our times and history as well.”
Vinshēk and Tadia Toussaint Strike a Match
In addition to the two jerseys, Gravenchy Nicolas collaborated with Tadia Toussaint to offer a soccer jersey dress replete with tassels that reminds one of their Haitian mother’s untouchable living room. This collaboration came about as a result of them looking for “an alternative to provide to the female fanbase, and we always had the idea to eventually do a jersey dress” Nicolas said. Their conversation produced a dress, similar to the jersey that offers “storytelling, elegance, and comfort.” There aren’t many jersey dresses that have been created, and this alternative may not be the last of their collaboration.
The Haitian Croissant’s Practical Approach
Photo courtesy of the Haitian Croissant.
Designer and creative director Ayida Solé is behind The Haitian Croissant, a brand focused on “carrying where you come from”. The Haitian Croissant’s knit jacquard jersey takes a different approach to the sport. She wanted to create something that “felt fashionable enough for me to want to wear,” she told the Haitian Times via a direct message on social media.
While clients will be purchasing for style, not to play, this jersey was specifically made for everyday wear. Using a limited drop style, The Haitian Croissant’s unisex top puts comfort and style at the forefront. This is a jersey you can wear for everyday errands, not just to the local sports bar.
“I believe a fashion piece like this is necessary because it is a timeless design,” Solé said. “As a designer, it is our interpretation of color, silhouette and form that we share with our community.”
Maison Demar Sets the Scene
Photo courtesy of Maison Demar.
Maison Demar, a Haitian-American brand, chose to focus on the World Cup setting. Featuring an aerial view of a soccer arena, the brand created something the consumer can throw on and go, reminding anyone walking behind them that Haiti will be participating in the World Cup.
Several designers said they plan to restock, though demand has outpaced supply for many of them. For now, they’re taking their time to fulfill existing orders.
Regardless of how one chooses to style their fandom, these Haitian creators made something else that unifies the people: a reminder that regardless of how long it takes, the wait is always worth it. Haiti’s return to the World Cup after 52 years has brought with it a wave of memories, archives and fashion that will become its own phenomenon.
