Football is more than an activity; for a large portion of people they are a way of life. In the many fan subcultures which have emerged through the decades but none is as distinctive and iconic as the casuals of football. Originating from the terraces of the UK Casual movement is a blend of passion for football and a passion for fashion and a sense of rebellion. This article explores the roots, evolution, and the influence of casuals in football Casual Store Deutschland.
The Origins of Casual Football
The movement to become a football casual started in the latter part of the 1970s and into the into the early 80s of United Kingdom. It was born out of the need to stand out in the throng of football fans that were associated with the punk and skinhead culture. Casuals wanted to differentiate themselves from the gangs, which they did through the use of high-end sportswear and designer clothing.
Brands such as Fila, Lacoste, Ellesse, along with Sergio Tacchini have become the clothing of choices for casuals. They represented exclusivity and aesthetics, a stark contrast to the raucous and rebellious look of various fan clubs. Football fans who returned from European away matches brought back fashionable clothing that was not widely made available within the UK, sparking a trend that would soon sweep across the country.
The Style That Defined a Subculture
At its base, the casual style is all about fashion. The casual look usually includes:
Designer Tracksuits Brands like Fila along with Adidas were the go-to for tracksuits. They were often available in colorful and striking designs.
Stonewashed Denim worn with casual sneakers Denim was a go-to for match-day outfits.
Iconic fashion: Trainers from Adidas in particular, these Samba as well as Gazelle styles, would become iconic among the casual crowd.
Outerwear Jackets from brands like CP Company, Stone Island and Burberry made for a practical, yet fashionable look to the outfit.
Accessories: Casuals often sported the baseball cap and scarf, subtly mixing the colors of their club with their fashionable outfits.
This zeal for style wasn't just about looking good but also a way of avoiding detection. In a manner of dressing casually in designer wear, casuals could blend in with crowds and avoid security at sporting events, particularly during a time when there was a lot of football-related hooliganism.
The Culture of Football Casuals
Beyond fashion, football casuals embodied the values of loyalty, and camaraderie. The movement was based on three pillars:
Football Casuals were, first and foremost, loyal supporters to their respective teams. They were devoted to their teams on match days, as was supporting their club an act of pride.
Territorial Pride: Casuals portrayed their regions, and matches often became arenas where rival groups could establish their dominance. This territorial aspect fueled rivalries, which sometimes turned into clashes.
Unity and Identity The casuals' distinct style created a sense belonging. Wearing the same brands and sharing similar interests helped to create an intimate community.
While casuals have at times been linked to hooliganism, it's important to be aware that not all casuals participated in violent activities. For many, it was more about the sport of football and celebrating individuality by wearing fashion.
The Evolution of the Casual Movement
The casual scene has morphed significantly since its inception. In the 1990s, there was declining numbers as football became more commercialized, and the game's traditional working-class roots began to erode. However, the casual style wasn't entirely gone, but it evolved and changed.
Today, the influence of casuals is observed in the mainstream fashion. Brands like Stone Island and CP Company that were once considered to be niche labels for the terraces, have become popular with celebrities and fashion collectors. The revival from the era of sportswear that was popular in past times has brought classic Adidas sneakers and Fila tracksuits into the spotlight.
Modern footballers are still embracing aspects of the casual look, blending it with contemporary streetwear. The legacy of the game is evident on the field as well as in the streets.
Casuals in Popular Culture
The football casuals have left a permanent mark on popular culture. Films such as The Football Factory and Green Street have depicted the lifestyle, albeit generally focusing on its violent aspects. Similarly, music genres such as Britpop in the 90s were heavily influenced by casual fashion and bands such as Oasis and Blur adopting the style.
Social media has also played an important part in keeping the movement alive. Platforms such as Instagram showcase modern interpretations of casual style, encouraging younger generations of football enthusiasts to embrace the style.
The Global Spread of the Casual Movement
What started in the UK has since swept across the globe. There are football casuals in countries like Italy, Russia, and Brazil with each bringing their individual twist to the style. The common love for football and fashion transcends borders as it brings together fans of an international culture.
In countries like Italy casual wear has been incorporated into elements of high-fashion brands like copyright and Prada, reflecting the country's roots in fashion. In Eastern Europe, the movement generally adopts a more practical and rugged style that combines streetwear with the traditional casual look.
Conclusion
The movement of casual football is an intriguing blend of style, sport and subculture. Its influence extends well beyond the pitch, forming style trends as well as influencing popular culture. The idea of using football as a means to allow football fans to express individuality and loyalty has become a global phenomenon, proving that the intersection between sport and style is a powerful force.
For those who enjoy the life of a casual, it's a lot more than just clothing and football--it's a statement of identity that celebrates communities, and a tribute to the wonderful game.