Football players have a long history of being shabby. It appears that having good fashion sense has never been a top priority, even with the staggering incomes. However, things are shifting now that players are more cognizant of cultural differences. Pogba and Lingard’s dancing feet in the Premier League are always decked up in the newest streetwear sneakers. The legendary Andrea Pirlo is one of the most well-respected individuals in Italy, if not the entire globe, for his sense of style.

The days of football players topping every global list of the worst dressed people are long gone. Rather, they are featured in periodicals where the conversation mostly revolves around their fashion sense, newest watch, or most beloved catwalk ensembles. Football players now frequently appear in fashion displays, drawing all eyes to their outfits. Some have impressed us with their streetwear and sense of style. Some have dazzled us with exquisitely crafted items that would leave James Bond envious.

But Karim Benzema, Real Madrid’s longtime icon, is leading the group with well chosen costumes and unrivaled influence. If he’s found it tough to establish himself as Los Blancos’ leading man, he hasn’t had any such challenges in terms of style.

And he’s the best person to learn from if you want to make an impression this summer. You can pick up some fashion tips from Benzema:

1. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication

First lesson: just keep things easy. Keep it simple when trying to impress. No whistles or bells. Instead, go for modesty, choose the appropriate accessories, and wear them with assurance.

Benzema keeps everything put together, from the undone (we assume on purpose?) shoes to the solitary gold chain.

2. Cargo pants are a must-have

The cargo pants are possibly the most adaptable pair of pants. They’re appropriate for almost any event (but don’t wear cargo pants to the wedding, please), and they provide both flair and utility. They have gained enormous popularity in recent years, and style icons like Travis Scott and A$AP Rocky are frequently spotted sporting a pair.

You should be able to trust them if they are suitable for them.

3. Printed T-shirts are the way to go

Occasionally, a bold t-shirt is all you need to add flair to an ensemble. Not the kind that will get you in jail, though. Choosing a straightforward image that is relevant to the culture will work well. A patterned t-shirt gets you halfway there, however you’ll still need to carefully consider the remainder of your ensemble.

4. Pay attention to colour coordination

The Devil, as they say, is always in the details. Making sure you pay attention to them, then, is as important as anything else – but whilst you’re at it, don’t overdo it. There’s a fine line between matching your shoelaces to your outfit and changing your phone case to match every colour in your wardrobe.

5. Out with the skinny, in with the baggy

Slowly, but surely, the trend of slim and skinny fits are being phased out. For better or worse? We’ll leave that to you. To stay on cue with the style kings, though, opt for a slightly roomier pair of trousers/joggers/jeans than usual. If done well, the results – as evidenced by Benzema – can be spectacular.