Football is not just the game of football; for some it's a way of living. In the many fan subcultures that have developed over the years there is none that is as distinct and recognizable as the football casuals. Originating from the terraces of the UK, the casual movement is a mix of love for football as well as a love of fashion as well as an aura of rebelliousness. This article focuses on the roots, evolution, and influence of football casuals Casuals.
The History Of Football Casuals
The football casual movement began in the latter part of the 1970s and into the into the early 80s of United Kingdom. It was born out of a desire to stand out in the crowd of football enthusiasts which were largely associated with the punk or skinhead scene. Casuals sought to separate themselves from the punk or skinhead crowd, and did so by embracing high-end sportswear and designer clothing.
Brands like Fila, Lacoste, Ellesse, and Sergio Tacchini were the fashion selection for casuals. They were synonymous with exclusivity and elegance, a stark contrast to the raucous and rebellious look of various fan clubs. Football fans return from European away matches brought back clothes that were not readily found in UK, sparking 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 look typically features:
Designer Tracksuits: Brands like Fila as well as Adidas were the preferred choice for tracksuits, often in bold colors and unique designs.
Stonewashed Denim: Paired with casual trainers jeans were a must to wear on a match day.
Iconic Fashion Adidas Trainers Adidas in particular, these Samba and Gazelle styles, would become famous on the casual market.
Outerwear: Jackets by brands like CP Company, Stone Island and Burberry provided a practical but fashionable accent to the outfit.
Accessories Casuals usually wore scarfs and baseball caps, subtle blending colours of the club with their stylish outfits.
The obsession with fashion was not just about fashion It was an opportunity to avoid detection. By wearing a subtle style of attire, casuals could blend into crowds and escape the police's surveillance during games, especially in a time of football hooliganism was rife.
The Culture of Football Casuals
Beyond fashion, football casuals were an attitude of loyalty and camaraderie. The sport was founded on three fundamental pillars:
Football: Casuals were, in the first place, devoted fans on their squads. The days of matches were holy, and supporting their club was an act of respect.
Territorial Pride: Casuals represented their locales and games frequently became arenas where rival groups could gain dominance. This territorial aspect fuelled rivalries, which sometimes turned into a war.
Unity and Identity: The casuals' distinctive style gave them a sense of belonging. Wearing the same brands and having the same passions created a close-knit community.
While the casual style has occasionally been attributed to hooliganism. It's vital to remember that not all casuals involved in violence. For some, it was all about having fun and showing individuality by wearing fashion.
The Evolution of the Casual Movement
The casual scene has grown substantially since its inception. In the 1990s, it saw a drop in popularity, as football became more commercialized, and the game's traditional working-class roots were eroded. However, the casual movement wasn't entirely gone, but it evolved and changed.
The influence of casuals is seen in mainstream fashion. Brands such as Stone Island and CP Company are no longer niche brands that were primarily aimed at terraces, are highly sought-after by celebrities and fashion avids. The resurgence of vintage sportswear brought iconic Adidas sneakers and Fila tracksuits back to the forefront.
Modern football fans continue to embrace elements of the casual fashion by blending it with modern streetwear. The legacy of the game is evident both in the stadium and on the streets.
Casuals in Popular Culture
The casualties of football have left a mark on popular culture. Films like The Football Factory and Green Street have depicted the style of life, though mostly focusing on its more violent aspects. In the same way, genres of music like Britpop in the 90s were heavily influenced in part by casual fashion and rock stars like Oasis and Blur taking on the look.
Social media also plays an important part in keeping the movement going. Platforms like Instagram provide modern interpretations of casual style, inspiring new generations of football lovers to embrace the look.
The Global Spread of the Casual Movement
The trend that began in the UK is now a global phenomenon. Football casuals are found in countries like Italy, Russia, and Brazil, each adding their distinct twists to the movement. The common love for football and fashion transcends borders as it brings together fans of an international culture.
In places like Italy casuals have been incorporating elements of the top fashion brands such as copyright and Prada in a way that reflects the country's long-standing fashion tradition. For Eastern Europe, the movement generally adopts a more basic and rugged style that combines streetwear with the typical casual look.
Conclusion
The movement of casual football is a fascinating blend of sport, style, and subculture. The influence of the sport extends beyond the terraces, shaping fashionable fashion trends, and inspiring popular culture. What began as a way to let football fans express their personal identity and loyalty has now become a global phenomenon, proving that the interplay between sport and style is a powerful force.
If you're a fan of the life of a casual, it's a lot more than just clothing and soccer. It's a statement of identity in celebration of the community, and a tribute to the wonderful game.