A Guide to Collecting Vintage Football Casual Clothing
Football Casuals A Subculture Defining Passion and Style
Football is more than just the game of football; for some they are a way of life. While there are many fan subcultures that have developed over the decades and are as distinct and memorable as football casuals. In the terraces in the UK, the casual movement is a blend of passion for the sport and fashion, as well as a desire for style and a sense of rebellion. This article discusses the roots, development, and impact of casual football.
The Origins of Football Casuals
The movement for casual football started in the late 1970s and beginning of the 1980s within the United Kingdom. It was born from the desire to stand out among an influx of football fans which were largely associated with punk or skinhead scenes. Casuals sought to separate themselves from such groups and they did it with high-end sporting wear and fashion-forward clothing.
Brands such as Fila, Lacoste, Ellesse and even Sergio Tacchini became the uniform of choices for casuals. These brands represented exclusivity as well as fashion, which was a stark contrast against the rebellious and rugged style of different fan groups. Fans of football coming back from European away games brought back stylish clothing that wasn't available in the UK creating a style that would soon sweep across the country.
The Style That Defined a Subculture
In its essence, the casual trend is all about fashion. The casual look typically features:
Designer tracksuits Brands such as Fila or Adidas were the top choice for tracksuits. These were usually vivid colors and in unique designs.
Stonewashed Denim: Paired with casual trainers, jeans were a staple for casual attire.
Iconic Shoes Nike trainers Adidas particularly these Samba as well as Gazelle model, became famous among the casual crowd.
Outerwear Jackets from top brands like CP Company, Stone Island, and Burberry have added a practical and fashionable accent to the outfit.
Accessories Casuals frequently wore the baseball cap and scarf, subtly mixing the colors of their club with their fashionable outfits.
This style obsession wasn't only about looking stylish but also a way to avoid being caught. By wearing a subtle style of clothes, casuals were able to blend in with crowds and avoid officers at games especially in a time of football violence was rampant.
The Culture of Football Casuals
Beyond the fashions, football casuals created an attitude of loyalty and camaraderie. The movement was built around three principles:
Football Casuals were, in the first place, devoted supporters of their clubs. They were devoted to their teams on match days, and backing their team was an act of pride.
Territorial Pride: Casuals were a representation of their region and matches were often arenas where rival groups could take on the upper hand. This territorial element fueled rivalries, which sometimes turned into fights.
Unity and Identity The casuals' distinctive style created a sense of belonging. Wearing the same brands and having the same interests created a close-knit community.
While the casual lifestyle has occasionally been attributed to violence, it's important note that not all casuals involved in violence. For many, it was a matter of the sport of football and celebrating individuality by wearing fashion.
The Evolution of the Casual Movement
The casual scene has evolved significantly since its inception. In the 1990s it witnessed a drop in popularity, as football became more commercialized, and the game's roots in the working class were eroded. However, the casual style has not gone away completely; it developed and changed.
Casual Clothing of casuals can be seen in fashion trends. Brands such as Stone Island and CP Company which were once affluent labels for the terraces, have become loved by celebrities and fashion people. The resurgence from the era of sportswear that was popular in past times has brought iconic Adidas tracksuits, trainers and Fila tracksuits back to the limelight.
Modern football fans continue to embrace elements of the casual fashion mixing it with modern streetwear. The tradition continues to be cherished, at the football field and in the streets.
Casuals in Popular Culture
The casualties of football have left a permanent mark over popular culture. Films like The Football Factory and Green Street have been able to portray the style, but mostly focusing on its more violent aspects. The same goes for music genres like Britpop in the 90s were heavily influenced by casual fashion and bands such as Oasis and Blur taking on the look.
Social media has also played a role in keeping the trend alive. Platforms like Instagram provide modern interpretations of casual style, inspiring new generations to embrace the style.
The Global Spread of the Casual Movement
What began in the UK has now spread globally. Football casuals can be found in countries such as Italy, Russia, and Brazil each with their own unique spin to the movement. The common love for football and fashion transcends boundaries connecting fans to a universal culture.
In some countries, such as Italy casual clothing has incorporated elements of luxury brands like Gucci and Prada as a tribute to the country's deep-rooted fashion heritage. For Eastern Europe, the movement tends to adopt a more utilitarian and rugged aesthetic by combining streetwear and the more traditional casual look.
Conclusion
The casual football movement is a fascinating mixture of sport, style, and subculture. Its influence goes beyond the football field, influencing the fashion scene and influencing popular culture. What began as a way for football players to express individuality and loyalty has become an international phenomenon that proves that the connection between fashion and sport is a formidable force.
If you're a fan of the easygoing lifestyle, it's far more than just clothes and football. It's an expression of identity and a celebration of community, and a homage to the beautiful game.