Sustainability Expo

Oct 22, 2024

The Power of Fashion, The Power of World Star: Elevating Global Stardom Through Sportswear

When fashion and football intersect, the result is a powerful force that goes far beyond style. At SX 2024, ASEAN’s largest sustainability expo, the SX Talk Stage became a platform for an inspiring dialogue on how sportswear fashion plays a transformative role in shaping world-class athletes. More than just aesthetics, it is about the stories, identities, and aspirations embedded in each piece—energizing athletes and captivating fans worldwide.

In the session titled “The Power of Fashion, The Power of World Star”, held on September 30, 2024, experts from the worlds of football, business, and fashion came together to explore how the design of sportswear can strengthen brand identity and elevate athletes to global recognition.

Key figures included:

Thrithep “Leesaw” Winothai, former professional footballer, Police Tero FC
Pimchanya Sasomsap, Team Manager, Nakhon Pathom United FC
Haavar Dahl, Brand Ambassador
Chaiyot Chaichinda, Director, Police Tero FC
Asst. Prof. Dr. Nattsupa Charoenyingwatana, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Bangkok University
Fashion design students from Bangkok University

The session was also accompanied by a striking fashion show titled “Rising Star: From Kickoff to the World”, where professional players from Nakhon Pathom United and Police Tero FC took to the runway wearing student-designed sportswear collections. The show highlighted that football kits are more than uniforms—they are symbols of pride, aspiration, and global potential.

The Rising Star Sportswear Project: Where Creativity Meets the Pitch

The Rising Star Sportswear initiative is a groundbreaking collaboration between Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Nakhon Pathom United FC, Police Tero FC, and Bangkok University. Its aim is to design sportswear that’s not only performance-driven but also fashionable and wearable in everyday life.

The 18 showcased outfits were entirely conceptualized and produced by fashion design students from Bangkok University. This project serves as a springboard for young creatives to enter the professional design world with real-world experience and tangible outcomes.

A Collaborative Vision: Behind the Scenes of a World-Class Project

Asst. Prof. Dr. Nattsupa Charoenyingwatana shared insights into the origins of the initiative, noting the invaluable industry partnerships that made it possible—particularly with the two football clubs. With ThaiBev’s strategic guidance, students gained access to the inner workings of professional football organizations, working closely with staff from both clubs over several months. This hands-on collaboration enriched the students' learning experience and prepared them for real industry challenges.

From Runway to Reality: Nakhon Pathom United Embraces Student Talent

Pimchanya Sasomsap, Team Manager of Nakhon Pathom United, emphasized that the project offers more than learning—it opens doors to real opportunities. She announced that the winning design would be manufactured and released commercially as official fan gear or training apparel. This not only motivates students but also adds value to their work in a meaningful, professional context.

She praised all 18 designs, highlighting her personal favorites while expressing admiration for the creativity and dedication shown by the students. Regardless of the final results, she urged every participant to take pride in being part of such a significant and career-shaping project.

Fashion as a Strategic Asset: Police Tero’s Vision for the Future

Chaiyot Chaichinda, Director of Police Tero FC, views the project as a win-win collaboration—benefiting students, universities, and the club alike. While students gain practical experience and exposure, the club receives innovative, youth-driven design ideas that help shape a fresh, relatable identity.

He also stressed how fashion can empower athletes. Well-designed kits enhance confidence and performance on the field while appealing aesthetics attract fans, foster loyalty, and increase commercial potential. Sponsors are more likely to support teams with strong visual branding, making stylish uniforms a smart investment.

For Police Tero FC, participating in this project represents a strategic move: building a stronger brand, creating meaningful community connections, and expanding long-term marketing value.

Connecting Design, Identity, and Community Pride

Thrithep “Leesaw” Winothai added a former player’s perspective, underscoring the importance of involving athletes in the design process. A thoughtfully designed kit can boost morale and embody team spirit. He also discussed collaborations with Bangkok University that incorporated local identity—such as using traditional Thai checkered fabric (pa kao ma) in jersey designs.

According to Leesaw, sportswear today transcends its original function. It is now a form of everyday fashion and a marketable product. Teams can turn these designs into special-edition merchandise that generates revenue and builds emotional connections with both players and fans.

In essence, sportswear is no longer just apparel—it is a bridge between club and community, a vehicle for storytelling, and a source of pride.

Fashion as a Force for Global Stardom

SX 2024’s SX Talk Stage ignited a new appreciation for the transformative potential of sportswear. Through collaboration between seasoned professionals and emerging designers, this initiative illuminated how clothing can capture identity, inspire performance, and connect with global audiences.

“The Power of Fashion, The Power of World Star” is not merely a campaign—it is a testament to how sportswear can transcend fabric and stitching. It symbolizes ambition, pride, and possibility, uniting athletes, designers, and fans in the pursuit of excellence.