The England 1997–99 Away Jersey, crafted by Umbro, stands as a quintessential example of late-90s kit innovation—merging tradition with bold graphic experimentation. Released for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, this shirt marked England’s return to a classic red away strip, but with a deeper tone and a design rich in symbolism.
 
The standout feature is the shadow-striped St George’s Cross motif, subtly woven into the body of the shirt using alternating satin and matte textures. This pattern not only provides visual depth but also embeds a powerful sense of national identity into the fabric itself. The vertical and horizontal blocks give it a futuristic grid-like structure that sets it apart from the minimalist trends of earlier years.
 
The shirt is accented with a navy-and-white V-neck collar, detailed with red striping, reinforcing the Three Lions’ identity. The embroidered England crest was notably modified in this version, with the three lions rendered in sky blue instead of the traditional navy, symbolizing a stylistic refresh. The central Umbro logo adds symmetry and retro charm, characteristic of kits from this era.
 
With interchangeable shorts and socks—designed to pair with both home and away kits—this strip also emphasized practical versatility, rare in that period.
 
This jersey is a timeless classic: bold in concept, rich in detail, and deeply patriotic, encapsulating the spirit of English football in the late '90s.