Football is more than the game of football; for some players, it's a way to live life. In the many fan subcultures which have emerged through the decades however none is as distinct and memorable as casual footballers. The roots of the casuals are in the terraces and fields of the UK the casual movement is a mix of love for the sport as well as a love of fashion and a spirit of rebelliousness. This article examines the origins, evolution and influence of football casuals Brands:.
The History of Casual Football
The movement for casual football started in the late 1970s and around the beginning of 1980s across the United Kingdom. It was born from an need to stand out in an influx of football fans, many of whom were associated with the punk or skinhead scenes. Casuals wanted a way to stand out from the skinhead and punk groups, and they did so by wearing high-end sportswear and designer clothes.
Brands such as Fila, Lacoste, Ellesse, and even Sergio Tacchini have become the clothing of choices for casuals. They represented exclusivity and design, in stark contrast to the raucous and rebellious images of the other clubs. Football fans who returned from European away games brought fashion-forward clothing that wasn't readily available in the UK that sparked a trend that was soon to spread across the nation.
The Style That Defined a Subculture
In its essence, the casual style is all about fashion. The casual style typically includes:
Designer tracksuits: Brands like Fila along with Adidas were the best-known for tracksuits. They were often available in bold colors and unique designs.
Stonewashed Denim Wear it with casual trainers jeans were a common choice for casual attire.
Iconic footwear trainers from Adidas, especially those of the Samba along with the Gazelle fashions, became iconic within the casual fashion scene.
Outerwear Jackets from brands like CP Company, Stone Island, and Burberry made for a practical, yet elegant layer to the look.
Accessories Casuals frequently wore capes or scarves made of baseball, subtilly blending colours of the club with their stylish outfits.
This style obsession did not only revolve around looking nice but also a way to avoid being caught. In a manner of dressing casually in designer garments, casuals could be spotted in crowds and get around security at sporting events, especially during the time when football violence was rampant.
The Culture of Football Casuals
Beyond fashion, football casuals were the spirit of loyalty and camaraderie. The movement was founded on three pillars:
Football Casuals were first and foremost, dedicated supporters on their squads. Game days were sacred as was supporting their club an act of respect.
Territorial Pride: Casuals were a representation of their region The games were frequently arenas where rival groups could assert dominance. This territorial aspect fuelled conflicts that often escalated into fights.
Unity and Identity The casuals' distinctive fashion style gave them a sense belonging. Wearing the identical brands and sharing the same passions fostered an intimate community.
While the casual movement has occasionally been attributed to hooliganism. It's vital to note that not all casuals involved in violence. For the majority of them, it was about having fun and showing individuality by wearing fashion.
The Evolution of the Casual Movement
The casual scene has changed dramatically since its beginning. In the 1990s, it experienced an increase in popularity as football became more commercialized and the game's traditional working-class roots diminished. However, the casual movement did not completely disappear; it developed and changed.
The influence of casuals is evident in popular fashion. Brands like Stone Island and CP Company which were once affluent labels for the terraces, are now loved by celebrities and fashion people. The resurgence in retro-style sportswear is bringing traditional Adidas trainers and Fila tracksuits into the spotlight.
Modern footballers continue to appreciate aspects of the casual design and mix it with modern streetwear. The legacy of the movement continues, both in the stadium and on the streets.
Casuals in Popular Culture
The casualties of football have left an indelible mark to popular culture. Films like The Football Factory and Green Street have depicted the lifestyle, albeit typically focusing on its violent aspects. In the same way, genres of music such as Britpop in the 90s were heavily influenced by casual style and bands such as Oasis and Blur taking on the look.
Social media has also played in keeping the movement alive. Platforms like Instagram display modern interpretations casual styles, and inspire new generations of football lovers to embrace the look.
The Global Spread of the Casual Movement
The trend that began in the UK has since spread to other countries. Football casuals can be found in countries such as Italy, Russia, and Brazil each with their own unique spin to the movement. The passion shared by football fans and fashion transcends boundaries as it brings together fans of an all-encompassing culture.
In some countries, such as Italy casuals have also incorporated elements of top fashion brands like copyright and Prada and reflect the country's deep-rooted fashion history. For Eastern Europe, the movement generally has a more traditional and rugged look by combining streetwear and the more traditional casual look.
Conclusion
The movement of casual football is a fascinating mixture of style, sport and subculture. Its influence extends far beyond the pitch, forming trending fashions and inspiring pop culture. The idea of using football as a means for fans of football to show their an individuality and devotion has evolved into an international phenomenon, proving that the interplay between sport and style is a formidable force.
For those who live a informal lifestyle, it's much more than just clothing and football. It's a declaration identity as well as a celebration of communities, and a tribute to the wonderful game.