Argentina uses its flag for sartorial inspiration. Holland looked back to its royal past to find its psychedelic look. Just like those countries, the United States has plenty to draw on for sartorial inspiration: three colors, the stars and stripes, and a bunch of rich symbols. In fairness, the National Team has shown a sense of style at times. The problem has been picking a style and sticking with it.

This picture shows what is still arguably American soccer's finest hour: a 1-0 win over England in the 1950 World Cup. Goal scorer Joe Gaetjens, a Haitian immigrant, is shown here being carried off the field in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Gaetjens is wearing a tasteful white jersey with a red diagonal sash and blue piping, as well as a USA crest over the left breast. It could have been the start of, dare we say, a tradition. But it wasn't.