The iconic red and black striped kits of AC Milan are a staple in world football. Though their stripe thicknesses may have changed throughout the years the consistency of the Rossoneri’s home kits is a comforting thing amidst a modern shirt climate where no traditions seem sacred.
In the first of a new series, I’ll be exploring the origins of the famous looks we all know and love. Have these teams always played in their default aesthetic, or did it come about partway through their history?
"We will be a team of devils. Our colours will be red like fire and black to invoke fear in our opponents!”
Is there a deeper meaning behind a shade or shades, or were the colours chosen simply because someone thought they looked good?
Let’s take a look.
Have AC Milan always played in red and black stripes?
Yes, AC Milan have always worn red and black stripes. Though many clubs started out life in unfamiliar colour combinations and kit styles, Milan have kept the same base look since their formation in 1899.
The first AC Milan home shirt had much thinner stripes, and indeed there have been many variations on stripe thickness throughout the club’s 125+ year history, but an AC Milan home kit has always been a sure thing.
Why do AC Milan wear red and black
The origin story behind I Rossoneri (the red and blacks) is a rather poetic one. When deciding on what colours the club would wear, English founder Herbert Kilpin had a clear vision: “We will be a team of devils. Our colours will be red like fire and black to invoke fear in our opponents!”
AC Milan have stayed true to the course set out for them all those years ago, only occasionally introducing details in white or gold in support of the team’s colour identity.
Why do AC Milan wear stripes?
Though the reason behind Milan’s stripes is less clear than the choice of red and black, the answer likely lies in 1890s football and, given Herbert Kilpin’s nationality, 1890s English football in particular.
Stripes were a popular style in the late 19th century, donned by the likes of Woolwich Arsenal, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur amongst others. Fellow Italians Juventus would also famously adopt stripes just a few years after AC Milan, on account of Notts County’s black and white kits.
Whatever the reason, it was an excellent choice from Kilpin and the team which has remained timeless across generations.
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