@Dopekits is a side hustle of mine that designs uniforms for various sports teams, seasonally, and explores brand design for teams' logos and identity.

Just in time for Summer, @Dopekits is releasing NCAA Mens Baseball concepts for our favorite blue-chip programs, and even some schools that don't have baseball programs (maybe Syracuse will take note). Check out some of the concepts below, and continue reading for a breakdown of details, and my personal favorites.

The explorations in baseball this year share a motif: rethinking retro. I explore how teams can make a call-back to the older days, and the heritage and nostalgia of those older looks, while incorporating patterns, textures, and font packages that are fresh and current. Mullets are back…it's time for some 80s baseball references!

My favorite element here is the introduction of mascots back into the mix. Even teams without an illustrated mascot are given one— in a fun cartoony style that feels lighthearted not fierce. It's reminiscent of Redlegs Mr. Met, Chief Wahoo, the Oriole bird, and more.

Another detail is the use of pattern and subtle graphic textures to add visual energy to the shirt. Whether its the tone-on-tone checkerboard for Kentucky, or the "blood bath" marbling on the Arkansas Razorbacks', these patterns dial it up a bit and give the design more complexity and substance.

Every jersey should have ties to the history of the team. That criterium should touch everything from the font and numbers, the color scheme, patches, and mascot— referencing location, history, and personality. The exciting part about designing team uniforms is that each season is a new chance to get people excited, rallying behind, the time capsule that is a uniform. Not to say change should be frequent, but fresh updates keep fans engaged and players feeling confident.