Football is more than just a game; for many it's an integral part of life. Among the various fan subcultures that have developed over the decades, none is as distinct and memorable as casuals of football. The roots of the casuals are in the terraces and fields of the UK, the casual movement is a fusion of enthusiasm for the sport and a love for fashion and a spirit of discontent. This article explores the origins, evolution, and influence of football casuals Casual Store Deutschland.
The History Of Football Casuals
The football casual movement started in the latter part of the 1970s and into the around the beginning of 1980s across the United Kingdom. It was born from a desire to stand out among the crowd of football supporters, many of whom were associated with the punk or skinhead scene. Casuals wanted to distance themselves from these groups, and did so by wearing high-end sportswear and designer clothes.
Brands such as Fila, Lacoste, Ellesse and Sergio Tacchini became the uniform of popular choice for casuals. They were synonymous with exclusivity and design, in stark contrast to the tough and rebellious images of the other clubs. Football fans that returned home from European away games brought designer clothing that wasn't widely found in UK which sparked a new trend that would soon spread across the nation.
The Style That Defined a Subculture
At its core, the casual trend is all about fashion. The casual fashion typically includes:
Designer tracksuits Brands such as Fila and Adidas were the best-known for tracksuits, often in vibrant colors and designs.
Stonewashed Denim worn with casual trainers jeans were a must for a casual outfit.
Iconic Clothing Adidas Trainers Adidas including the Samba as well as the Gazelle versions, become iconic within the casual fashion scene.
Outerwear jackets from designers such as CP Company, Stone Island and Burberry made for a practical, yet fashionable accent to the outfit.
Accessories: Casuals often sported the baseball cap and scarf, subtly blending colors from the club with their trendy outfits.
This obsession with fashion was not just about looking fashionable it was also a method to avoid detection. In a manner of dressing casually in designer wear, casuals could blend into crowds and evade officers at games especially in a time 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 fundamental pillars:
Football Casuals were, first and foremost, loyal fans of the teams they played for. Game days were sacred as was supporting their club an act of honor.
Territorial Pride: Casuals represented their local areas and games often turned into venues for rival groups to make their mark. This aspect of territoriality fueled rivalries, which sometimes turned into fights.
Unity and Identity The casuals' distinctive fashion style gave them a sense belonging. Wearing the same brands and sharing the same passions fostered the formation of a community.
Although casual wear has at times been linked to violence, it's important be aware that not all casuals participated in violent activities. For many, it was about enjoying football and showing their individuality through fashion.
The Evolution of the Casual Movement
The casual scene has morphed dramatically since its beginning. In the 90s, it experienced a drop in popularity, as football became more commercialized and the game's working-class roots started to disappear. However, the casual movement did not completely disappear; it developed and changed.
The influence of casuals can be observed in the mainstream fashion. Brands such as Stone Island and CP Company used to be niche brands for the terraces are now loved by celebrities and fashion fans. The revival of vintage sportswear brought classic Adidas footwear and Fila tracksuits to the forefront.
Modern soccer fans are continuing to embrace elements of the casual aesthetic, blending it with contemporary streetwear. The tradition of the sport is still alive, both in the stands and on the streets.
Casuals in Popular Culture
The football casuals have left a enduring mark of popular culture. Films like The Football Factory and Green Street have depicted the lifestyle, albeit usually focusing on its most violent aspects. In the same way, genres of music like Britpop in the 1990s were heavily influenced and influenced by casual clothing, with bands like Oasis and Blur adopting the fashion.
Social media also plays an important part in keeping the movement alive. Platforms such as Instagram showcase modern interpretations of casual style, inspiring new generations of footballers to embrace the style.
The Global Spread of the Casual Movement
What began in the UK has since spread to other countries. Football casuals are found in countries like Italy, Russia, and Brazil Each one adding its distinct spin on the fashion. The love for football and fashion transcends boundaries as it brings together fans of an all-encompassing culture.
In some countries, such as Italy casuals have been incorporating elements of fashion brands such as copyright and Prada which reflect the country's deep-rooted fashion history. In Eastern Europe, the movement tends to adopt a more traditional and rugged look which blends streetwear and more traditional casual look.
Conclusion
The movement of casual football is a fascinating blend of styles, sports, and subculture. Its influence goes beyond the playing fields, influencing trending fashions and inspiring pop culture. What started as a way for football fans to show an individuality and devotion has evolved into a global phenomenon, proving that the connection between sport and style can be a significant force.
If you're a fan of the easygoing lifestyle, it's far more than just clothing and football. It's a declaration of identity and a celebration of community, as well as a celebration to the wonderful game.