Outside the Lines: Sarah Bern

From the front row for club and country, Sarah Bern is known for her physicality and presence on the pitch. Away from the game, her style offers a different kind of expression.

Relaxed, confident and always evolving, she uses fashion as a way to reflect who she is. Whether she’s leaning into more tailored looks or keeping things simple, it’s all about feeling comfortable and authentic.

How would you describe your personal style?

It shifts with the weather, but it’s definitely on the bolder side. I love mixing masculine and feminine pieces and putting unexpected looks together.

What does a typical off-day outfit look like for you?

Whatever makes me feel good. It’s all about expressing personality and showing who I am through my clothing.

Do you think your style has changed since becoming a professional rugby player?

Definitely. Mackenzie Carson (Mack) would say she’s responsible - apparently I used to live in skinny jeans. My sister, who studied fashion, has also had a big influence.

As I’ve grown more confident in myself, my style’s become bolder too. I’ve learned to dress for my body and to celebrate it. I’m unique, so I want my style to reflect that.

Is there anything that you incorporate from rugby style into your personal style?

Rugby is definitely influencing fashion again; I see classic rugby shirts everywhere. For me, it’s less direct, but the sport has helped me embrace masculinity in my style.

I love the contrast between having my hair down, nails done, makeup on, but pairing it with ties, gilets, or traditionally “menswear” pieces. Rugby has given me the confidence to explore both sides.

Do you think feeling confident in what you wear off the pitch feeds into your confidence on it, or do you think that's just a completely separate thing?

100%. Confidence in yourself carries into everything. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, people notice that energy.

I wasn’t naturally confident growing up, I was quite shy, so it’s something I’ve had to build. Sometimes it’s about faking it until you make it. Putting yourself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable, is where you grow.

Matchday Sarah vs non-matchday Sarah - how different are they style-wise?

Completely different. Matchday is clean, focused, and practical with my hair tied back, ready for the job. Off the pitch, it’s much more instinctive. I’ll open my wardrobe and build an outfit around whatever I’m excited to wear that day.

Have you got any staple pieces that are your favourites, or that you've worn more recently?

I’ve got one of my dad’s old Timberland shirts. He doesn’t actually know I took it, but it means a lot to me. Pieces with that kind of connection are really special.

I also love my Air Jordan bomber jacket. Michael Jordan is someone I really admire, and I like how sport and streetwear overlap - wearing pieces that inspire confidence both on and off the pitch.

Who or what inspires your style in any sort of way, whether that's teammates, social media, designers, or just life around you?

It’s quite personal, but I take inspiration from everywhere. People like Reneé Rapp and Lola Young, a lot of pop culture, and definitely queer icons.

My Pinterest right now is full of oversized suits, ties, and that ‘70s to ‘90s crossover with big tailoring, high-waisted, flowy trousers. I’ll take those ideas and adapt them to what works for me and my body.

How important do you think it is for women’s rugby to show players’ personalities and style away from the pitch?

I think it's vitally important. Women are often judged on how they look, so the more we celebrate different styles and identities, the better. It helps bring new fans in too. Someone might connect with a player’s style before they even watch a game. That visibility can really grow the sport.

If you could collaborate with one brand on a PWR collection, who would it be?

There are so many. Damson Madder would be a great fit, but also brands like New Balance, Nike, or Carhartt. There’s a big opportunity there, I think women’s rugby and fashion could work so well together.

What fashion trend would you bring back from the grave?

Full-on ‘80s athletic wear. Princess Diana’s style was iconic, so maybe a nod towards that.

Maybe not the perms… but never say never.