16 CROATIA

Because ...

ŠAHOVNICA CHIC

In an era of blackouts and whiteouts and monochromatic kit conformity (we're looking at you, FIFA and MLS), the šahovnica—or checkerboard—stands out. Croatia doesn't worry about fashion trends or if its jersey looks good with jeans. Instead, it asserts national pride with an unmistakable five-centuries-old symbol. Croatia will be styling again, especially with Luka Modrić and Ivan Rakitić in checkers.