Hollywood heartthrob Timothée Chalamet and reality TV mogul Kylie Jenner made waves this weekend as they stepped out together at the Indian Wells tennis tournament in California. The couple, who have been the subject of intense media scrutiny since their relationship went public, turned heads not just for their high-profile pairing but for Chalamet’s bold fashion choice: a vintage Saint-Étienne jacket. The unexpected nod to the French football club sparked a flurry of reactions, blending the worlds of cinema, fashion, and sport into one unforgettable moment.
Chalamet, known for his eclectic and daring style, has long been a trendsetter in the fashion world. From his iconic Haider Ackermann harness at the Venice Film Festival to his casual yet chic streetwear looks, the 28-year-old actor has consistently pushed the boundaries of red-carpet and everyday fashion. His choice of a Saint-Étienne jacket at Indian Wells, however, was particularly intriguing. The green-and-white jacket, emblazoned with the club’s crest, is a throwback to the 1970s, a golden era for the team when they dominated French football under the leadership of legendary players like Michel Platini.
The jacket’s appearance at a high-profile event like Indian Wells, where celebrities and athletes mingle in the California desert, was a masterstroke of fashion-meets-sport crossover. Saint-Étienne, or “Les Verts” as they are affectionately known, may not be a household name in the United States, but the club holds a special place in football history. Their 10 Ligue 1 titles and iconic green kits have made them a symbol of French football heritage. Chalamet’s decision to wear the jacket not only showcased his appreciation for vintage sportswear but also introduced a new audience to the storied legacy of the club.
Kylie Jenner, meanwhile, complemented Chalamet’s look with her own signature style. The 26-year-old beauty mogul and reality TV star opted for a sleek, neutral-toned outfit that allowed her boyfriend’s jacket to take center stage. The couple’s coordinated yet contrasting looks were a testament to their individual fashion sensibilities, blending effortlessly as they enjoyed the tennis matches and mingled with other A-listers in attendance.
The Saint-Étienne jacket quickly became the talk of the tournament, with fans and fashion critics alike speculating about its significance. Was it a nod to Chalamet’s French heritage? (The actor’s father is French, and he has often spoken about his connection to the country.) Or was it simply a case of the actor’s penchant for unique, statement-making pieces? Whatever the reason, the jacket’s appearance at Indian Wells underscored the growing trend of football culture influencing high fashion. In recent years, vintage football jerseys and club merchandise have become staples on runways and red carpets, with designers and celebrities alike embracing the sport’s aesthetic.
The moment also highlighted the global appeal of football, even in a country where the sport is still growing in popularity. While soccer may not yet rival American football, basketball, or baseball in terms of viewership in the U.S., the influence of European football culture is undeniable. From the rise of MLS to the increasing visibility of international stars like Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, the sport is carving out a significant niche in American popular culture. Chalamet’s Saint-Étienne jacket, with its retro charm and European flair, is a perfect example of this cultural crossover.
Social media erupted with reactions to the couple’s appearance, with fans of both Chalamet and Jenner praising their style while football enthusiasts celebrated the unexpected spotlight on Saint-Étienne. Memes and tweets flooded platforms, with some joking that Chalamet’s jacket was the most attention the club had received in years. (Saint-Étienne, once a powerhouse of French football, has struggled in recent years, even suffering relegation to Ligue 2 in 2022.) Others speculated about whether the actor was a secret fan of the team or if the jacket was a gift from a friend or stylist.
The couple’s outing at Indian Wells also provided a glimpse into their relationship, which has been the subject of intense media fascination since they were first linked in early 2023. Chalamet, known for his private nature, and Jenner, one of the most followed people on Instagram, make for an unlikely yet captivating pair. Their appearance at the tournament, where they were seen laughing and enjoying each other’s company, offered a rare moment of candidness in a relationship that has largely played out away from the public eye.
For Saint-Étienne, the unexpected publicity is a welcome boost. The club, which is working to regain its former glory, has seen its global profile rise thanks to Chalamet’s fashion statement. Merchandise sales, particularly vintage items, are likely to see a spike as fans and fashionistas seek to emulate the actor’s look. The jacket itself, a rare piece from the 1970s, has already become a sought-after item among collectors.
As the tennis tournament wrapped up and the couple departed Indian Wells, the image of Chalamet in his Saint-Étienne jacket lingered in the minds of fans and fashion critics alike. The moment was a reminder of the power of celebrity to bridge cultures and industries, bringing together the worlds of film, fashion, and sport in a single, stylish statement. For Chalamet, it was another example of his ability to captivate audiences both on and off the screen. And for Saint-Étienne, it was a moment in the spotlight that celebrated their rich history and enduring legacy.
In the end, Timothée Chalamet’s Saint-Étienne jacket was more than just a fashion choice—it was a celebration of football’s cultural impact and a testament to the actor’s unique ability to turn heads and spark conversations. As the worlds of Hollywood and sport continue to intersect, moments like these remind us of the universal appeal of style, passion, and heritage.
