Football isn't just an activity; for a large portion of people it's a way of living. Among the various fan subcultures to have emerged over the years however none is as distinct and recognizable as the casual footballers. Originating from the terraces of the UK Casual movement is a blend of passion for the sport along with a love of fashion and a sense of rebelliousness. This article examines the roots, development, and the influence of casuals in football Brands:.
The Origins of Football Casuals
The football casual movement began in the late 1970s and mid-80s throughout the United Kingdom. It was born out of an desire to stand out from an influx of football fans who were associated with punk or skinhead culture. Casuals sought to dissociate themselves from the skinhead and punk groups, which they did through the use of high-end sportswear and clothes that were designed by designers.
Brands like Fila, Lacoste, Ellesse along with Sergio Tacchini were the fashion choices for casuals. These brands symbolized exclusivity and elegance, a stark contrast from the rough and rebellious look of various fan groups. Football fans that returned home from European away matches brought back designer clothing that wasn't widely available in the UK, sparking a trend which would soon be sweeping across the country.
The Style That Defined a Subculture
At its base, the casual movement is about fashion. The casual look usually includes:
Designer Tracksuits Brands like Fila along with Adidas were the most popular for tracksuits, often in striking colors and distinctive designs.
Stonewashed Denim Affixed to casual trainers, jeans were a staple for match-day outfits.
Iconic fashion Shoes from Adidas in particular, that of Samba as well as the Gazelle model, became famous within the casual scene.
Outerwear jackets from designers like CP Company, Stone Island and Burberry provided a practical but elegant layer to the look.
Accessories Casuals commonly wore sports caps or scarfs. They subtly mixing shades of club colours with their fashion-forward clothes.
The obsession with fashion wasn't only about looking stylish; it was also a way of avoiding detection. In a manner of dressing casually in designer clothes, casuals were able to be spotted in crowds and get around security at sporting events, particularly in the era of the gangs of football were rampant.
The Culture of Football Casuals
Beyond fashion, football casuals were an attitude of loyalty and camaraderie. The sport was founded on three principles:
Football Casuals were, in the first place, devoted fans on their squads. It was a sacred day to play, and supporting their team was an act of pride.
Territorial Pride: Casuals portrayed their regions and games frequently became arenas for rival groups to gain dominance. This territorial aspect fueled rivalries, which sometimes turned to fights.
Unity and Identity: The casuals' distinct style gave a feeling of belonging. Wearing the same brands and sharing similar interests helped to create the feeling of belonging to a tightly knit community.
While the casual movement has sometimes been linked to hooliganism, it's crucial to remember that not all casuals involved in violence. For some, it was all about celebrating football and expressing individuality through fashion.
The Evolution of the Casual Movement
The casual scene has grown substantially since its inception. In the 1990s, there was declining numbers as football became more commercialized, and the game's roots in the working class were eroded. But the casual game never truly disappeared; it evolved and changed.
The influence of casuals can be seen in fashion trends. Brands such as Stone Island and CP Company which were once affluent labels for the terraces, are sought-after by fashion and celebrity lovers. The revival in retro-style sportswear is bringing classic Adidas shoes and Fila tracksuits back to the limelight.
Modern footballers continue to adore elements of the casual aesthetic by blending it with modern streetwear. The tradition of the sport is still alive, in the stands as well as in the streets.
Casuals in Popular Culture
The casualties of football have left a permanent mark upon popular culture. Films like The Football Factory and Green Street have presented the culture, albeit typically focusing on its violent aspects. Similar to music genres, such as Britpop during the 1990s were heavily influenced in part by casual fashion and rock stars like Oasis and Blur adopting the fashion.
Social media also plays a role in keeping the trend alive. Platforms such as Instagram show modern versions of casual styles, and inspire new generations to embrace the style.
The Global Spread of the Casual Movement
The trend that began in the UK is now spreading across the globe. There are football casuals in countries such as Italy, Russia, and Brazil all of which have their distinct twists to the movement. The love of football and fashion transcends borders by uniting football fans into one universal society.
In regions like Italy casuals have also incorporated elements of luxury brands like copyright and Prada as a tribute to the country's deep-rooted fashion heritage. When it comes to Eastern Europe, the movement generally adopts a more traditional and rugged look which blends streetwear and typical casual look.
Conclusion
The movement of casual football is an interesting blend of sports, style and subculture. The impact of this movement extends far beyond the pitch, forming trending fashions and inspiring pop culture. What started as a way for football fans to express dedication and individuality has become an international phenomenon, proving that the combination of fashion and sport is a formidable force.
For those who live a easygoing lifestyle, it's far more than clothes and football. It's an expression of identity as well as a celebration of community, and an ode to the beautiful game.