Futbol Casuals

Style and Aggression

Football casuals were a subculture of football fans that emerged in the UK during the 1980s and 1990s. They were known for their distinctive fashion sense, which was heavily influenced by European designer labels, and their involvement in football-related violence.

The term "casual" originated from the way that these fans dressed. They would wear expensive designer clothing from brands such as Stone Island, CP Company, and Lacoste, often in muted colors such as navy and black. The clothing was often worn in a particular way, with items like shirts and jackets buttoned all the way to the top and collars turned up.

The casual style was often associated with the music subculture of the time, particularly the acid house and rave scenes, and was seen as a way of expressing a certain level of sophistication and individuality.

While they were not necessarily involved in the same level of violence as earlier generations of football hooligans, they were still associated with disorder and confrontations with rival fans. They would often travel to away matches to meet and socialize with other casuals, as well as to engage in violence and confrontations with rival fans.

Casuals had their distinctive language, which included slang terms and coded phrases that were used to identify themselves and communicate with other casuals. This language was often used to obscure the true meaning of what was being said by outsiders.

This subculture also had a positive side, with a strong emphasis on fashion and style, as well as on the social aspects of following football. Many casuals saw themselves as part of a wider community, united by their shared interest in fashion and football.

However, the casual subculture eventually began to decline in the 1990s, as football became more commercialized and all-seater stadiums were introduced, making it more difficult for hooligans to engage in violence. Many casuals began to move away from football altogether, focusing instead on other interests such as music or fashion.

Today, the casual subculture remains part of British football culture, and its influence can be seen in the way that many football fans dress and behave. However, it is no longer associated with the same level of violence and disorder that it was in the past, and has largely faded away as a distinct subculture.

Photos: Grailed, The Face Magazine, Lower Block