Engeland – United Kingdom
In the early 80s
Football casuals are football supporters who distinguish themselves from less fanatical supporters by their style of clothing. Whereas most people take their most expensive outfit out of the closet for a date or wedding, it’s a little different for casuals. Casuals leave their club colors at home on match day and go to the stadium in style instead. And in style means, they wear a complete outfit from specific casual brands. From Adidas trainers to a C.P. Company jacket to a Burberry scarf.
Stone Island is one of the most well-known clothing brands within the football casual scene. The Italian label became popular early on among football supporters across Europe and is especially recognized for its distinctive compass patch on the left sleeve. Within the casual subculture, Stone Island plays a key role due to its mix of bold design and technical quality. Jackets are the most commonly worn items, but polo shirts, trousers, and hoodies are also part of the typical football casual wardrobe. The brand is often chosen for its strong visual identity, its association with matchday culture, and its long-standing presence in stadiums and on the street. For many football casuals, wearing Stone Island is simply part of what you wear when you support your team.
C.P. Company is slightly less mainstream than Stone Island but holds a strong reputation among football casuals, often seen as a brand for those who are more deeply rooted in the culture. One of the most recognizable features of C.P. Company clothing is the use of built-in goggles. These are usually placed in the hood, drawing inspiration from military uniforms and functional workwear. The idea behind this design is both stylistic and practical—the goggles allow the hood to function almost like a balaclava, making it possible to stay anonymous when needed. Over time, the brand has expanded on this concept, placing goggles in other parts of the garment as well, such as the sleeve of a pullover. For many football casuals, C.P. Company represents a blend of subtle branding, function, and a strong connection to terrace culture.
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Natural Casual isn’t just clothing, it’s made for the terraces. Born from football culture, it speaks to supporters who value loyalty, identity and understated style. Each design is limited to 100 pieces—once sold out, it never returns. No loud logos, no gimmicks. Just pure, honest casual wear that feels right on matchdays and beyond. It’s not for everyone. And that’s exactly the point.
Most popular from Natural Casual
Lyle & Scott has been a familiar name among football casuals for years. In recent times, the brand has seen a noticeable resurgence, particularly among younger supporters. Its clean designs and accessible pricing make it a popular choice for those just entering the casual scene. Compared to more expensive labels, Lyle & Scott offers a similar look without the high cost, which appeals to casuals who value style but are working with a smaller budget. That said, the brand isn’t limited to newcomers—many from the older generation still rate Lyle & Scott for its heritage, simplicity and connection to terrace culture. It’s a brand that bridges generations without losing its place in the scene.
Fred Perry is a true classic within the football casual scene. Unlike Stone Island or C.P. Company, it’s not Italian but proudly British—something that resonates strongly in UK terrace culture. The brand has deep roots in British subcultures and has long been embraced by football supporters across the country. Its most iconic item is without doubt the polo shirt, often worn on matchdays and instantly recognisable by the laurel wreath logo. Fred Perry combines simplicity with heritage, making it a staple for casuals who value tradition and subtle style. While trends come and go, this brand continues to hold its ground in the casual wardrobe.
Weekend Offender is a brand closely tied to the football lifestyle and worn almost exclusively by supporters. The name itself comes from the term “weekend offender,” referring to someone who lives for matchdays—travelling to the stadium, backing their club, and heading to the pub with mates afterward. The phrase originally came out of Wales, but the clothing has since found its way into stadiums and city centres across Europe. Known for its practical designs and bold attitude, the brand captures the spirit of the terraces without trying too hard. For many football casuals, Weekend Offender represents a no-nonsense choice that’s rooted in the rhythm of matchday life.
The North Face has become one of the most popular brands among football casuals in recent years. Its rise within the scene began when certain groups of hooligans started dressing entirely in black. The idea was simple but effective—an entire group in matching black jackets created a sense of unity and intimidation. Compared to flashy or brightly coloured clothing, the all-black look felt more organised, more serious, and more powerful. The North Face jackets, known for their durability and simple design, fit perfectly within that image. While the brand wasn’t originally connected to football culture, it has since been fully embraced by casuals who favour a low-profile but coordinated look on matchdays.
Adidas holds the number eight spot in the list of most popular football casual brands—and it earns that place entirely thanks to its iconic trainers. We’re not talking about tracksuits here, but about the classic silhouettes that have been part of terrace culture since day one. Models like the Gazelle, Samba and Spezial have been worn by football supporters for decades and are still seen on matchdays across Europe. These trainers are simple, timeless and instantly recognisable. They offer the perfect balance between comfort and style, making them a natural fit for long days on the move. You can’t walk into a stadium without spotting at least a few pairs. For many casuals, Adidas on your feet is as essential as your jacket on your back.
Ellesse is a classic name in British casual culture and has long been associated with the football scene. In earlier years, it was especially known for its tracksuits, which were widely worn by supporters on matchdays. These bold, sporty sets became part of the casual identity, particularly during the 80s and 90s. Today, the focus has shifted more towards jackets and T-shirts, which still carry that same retro feel. While Ellesse hasn’t fully taken over the football casual scene across all of Europe, it remains popular in countries like Belgium and Germany, where the brand is seen more frequently around stadiums. Its connection to old-school terrace style keeps it relevant among supporters who appreciate heritage and nostalgia in their wardrobe.
Napapijri is without doubt one of the most recognisable names in the football casual scene—though also one of the trickiest to pronounce. The brand is best known for its jackets, especially the iconic anoraks featuring a large Norwegian flag on the front. Despite what the logo might suggest, Napapijri isn’t a Norwegian brand at all. Like many other staples in casual culture, it actually originated in Italy. The combination of bold branding, functional outerwear and strong street presence has made Napapijri a popular choice among football supporters. Its jackets are often worn for their practicality on cold matchdays, but also for their place in the wider terrace aesthetic.
Lacoste is, like Ellesse, a brand closely tied to the golden era of football casuals in the 1970s and 1980s. While it didn’t originate from football culture, its sharp polos, minimalist design and iconic crocodile logo quickly made it a staple on the terraces. Back then, wearing a Lacoste polo wasn’t just about fashion—it was about showing you belonged. The brand offered a cleaner, more refined look that contrasted with louder styles, which made it ideal for casuals who preferred subtle status symbols. Today, Lacoste remains popular among football supporters, with its classic polos still seen on matchdays. Its long-standing presence and timeless design keep it firmly rooted in casual culture.
Burberry is perhaps the most typical casual brand there is. Its connection to football culture—especially in the UK—is undeniable. The classic Burberry check, whether on a scarf or a cap, has long been part of the uniform for many British casuals. In England, it’s almost impossible to find a firm or supporter group where no one owns at least one piece from the brand. Despite this strong presence in the UK, Burberry hasn’t reached the same level of popularity across the rest of Europe. Outside of Britain, it’s mostly worn by the more dedicated football casuals—the ones who know the roots of the culture and deliberately choose brands with deep terrace history. For them, Burberry is not about fashion, but about identity.
Ma Strum is a relatively new name in the football casual scene, especially when compared to classic terrace brands. Founded in 2008, this English sportswear label has quickly gained ground—particularly with its technical jackets that appeal to modern-day casuals. While it doesn’t carry the long-standing legacy of brands like Stone Island or Fred Perry, Ma Strum has built a strong following thanks to its sharp designs and functional details. The brand focuses heavily on innovation, with outerwear that blends military influences and high-performance fabrics. Today, Ma Strum jackets are a common sight on matchdays, especially among younger supporters who prefer a more contemporary take on the casual look. It’s not a heritage brand, but it has definitely earned its place on the terraces.
Aquascutum is a luxury British clothing brand with deep roots in classic menswear. While the company is now owned by Chinese investors, its heritage remains distinctly British. Within the football casual scene, Aquascutum is best known for its scarves, which feature the brand’s iconic check pattern. This distinctive design makes them instantly recognisable, especially among supporters who value subtle status symbols. Although the brand is more formal than many others on the list, certain items—particularly outerwear and accessories—have found a lasting place on the terraces. Aquascutum represents a more refined side of football casual culture, often worn by those who appreciate traditional style with a sharp edge.
Fila is a true classic within the football casual scene, with its roots in the Italian town of Biella. Before the brand moved into sportswear in the 1970s, Fila was known mainly for producing underwear—and had no real presence in football culture. That changed quickly when the brand began releasing bold, colourful tracksuits that caught the attention of football fans across the UK and Europe. During the rise of the casual movement, Fila tracksuits were bought in large numbers and became a defining part of the terrace look. While the brand isn’t as dominant today as it once was, Fila still holds nostalgic value among older casuals and remains part of the subculture’s early identity.
Paul & Shark is another clothing brand with Italian roots, founded in 1975. Once considered a true classic among football casuals, it held a strong presence on the terraces, especially during the 80s and 90s. Known for its nautical-inspired style and high-quality knitwear, the brand offered something slightly more refined within the casual scene. Back then, seeing Paul & Shark jumpers and jackets in the stadium was common—often worn by older casuals or those with a more understated look. These days, the brand is far less visible among football supporters, which many see as a loss. While trends have shifted, Paul & Shark still carries weight for those who value tradition and remember its place in terrace history.
Levi’s is such a widely known and mainstream brand today that it’s easy to forget its early role in football casual culture. During the rise of the scene, Levi’s jeans were a common part of the terrace outfit. Their clean look, reliable quality and subtle branding made them a perfect match with bold jackets and designer trainers. The small red tab and leather patch on the back were enough to signal style without shouting for attention. While Levi’s has grown far beyond the subculture, it still holds a place in the history of casual fashion—especially among those who remember how important the right pair of jeans once was on matchday.
As the name suggests, Hackett London is a brand with its roots in the British capital. Founded in 1983, it has built a reputation for classic menswear with a refined and understated style. While Hackett isn’t as deeply embedded in football casual culture as some of the more street-oriented brands, its clean designs and British heritage have earned it a quiet place among certain supporters. The brand appeals especially to those casuals who prefer a smarter look—think fitted polo shirts, wool scarves and tailored jackets. It’s not the first name you’d associate with terraces, but for those who mix tradition with terrace culture, Hackett London fits the bill.
Fjällräven is the only brand in this list with its roots in Sweden, specifically in the small town of Örnsjöldsvik. Surrounded by water, forests, and mountains, the brand naturally developed a focus on durable outdoor clothing. While not originally created with football culture in mind, Fjällräven has found its way into the casual scene—particularly among supporters who value function as much as style. Its jackets are ideal for cold, rainy weekends and long afternoons in uncovered stadiums. The simple design, muted colours, and strong materials make it a practical choice without stepping too far outside the casual aesthetic. It may not be traditional terrace wear, but for many, Fjällräven is exactly what you want when comfort and weather resistance matter just as much as appearance.
Henri Lloyd was founded in Manchester and originally designed as a sailing brand, known for its technical fabrics and weather-resistant clothing. Despite its nautical roots, it didn’t take long before football supporters embraced the brand—especially those drawn to clean, practical outerwear with a premium feel. Over time, Henri Lloyd became a familiar name within the casual scene, particularly in the UK. Its jackets and knitwear fit naturally into the terrace look, offering a mix of function and understated style. Today, the brand is owned by Swedish investors, but its connection to British football culture remains. While it may not be as dominant as it once was, Henri Lloyd still holds its place among casuals who value heritage and purpose-built clothing.
Football casuals are a unique subculture that emerged in England during the 1970s and 80s. It began when hooligans from clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, West Ham United, Nottingham Forest, and Everton traveled across Europe to attend away matches. After clashes and disturbances, they returned to England wearing expensive Italian and French designer clothing—sometimes bought, often stolen. This marked the start of what we now know as the “football casuals” style.
At a time when police were mainly looking for rowdy fans wearing club colors, these supporters had a clever tactic. By dressing in expensive brand clothing without logos, they were less noticeable. They looked like wealthy young people instead of aggressive hooligans. This allowed them to blend into crowds and avoid police attention more easily.
In the beginning, no one paid much attention to supporters wearing designer jackets from brands like Sergio Tacchini or Fila. The police were focused on skinheads in bomber jackets and Dr. Martens—not someone in a Burberry coat or a Lacoste polo. But what started as a way to fly under the radar quickly evolved into a full-blown fashion movement.
By the 1980s, casual culture was growing fast. It was no longer just a way to hide—it became an identity. Young men began to compete over who wore the most exclusive or expensive clothing. It wasn’t just about football anymore; it was about status, style, and recognition within the group.
With the rise of acid house and rave culture in the late 80s, the violent edge of the casuals seemed to fade. The subculture started leaning more toward music, fashion, and lifestyle. Still, the connection to football remained strong.
In the 1990s, the casual culture made a comeback. Supporters now wore brand-name clothing as a kind of uniform. It became a way to show that you were one of the ‘real’ fans—not just an average supporter with a scarf and jersey.
Popular brands at the time (many still today) included:
Stone Island
Iconic for the compass badge on the sleeve. Expensive, stylish, and with a tough image.
C.P. Company
Known for their jackets with goggle hoods—practical and instantly recognizable.
Burberry and Aquascutum
British classics with a polished, upper-class look.
Fred Perry and Lyle & Scott
Polo shirts and sweaters that were worn both in and out of the stadium.
Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, and Paul & Shark
Premium casualwear that offered both quality and prestige.
Fake clothing was—and still is—absolutely frowned upon in this scene. A true football casual can spot a counterfeit in seconds.
In the early 2000s, things started to shift again. The “standard” casual look had become too mainstream. Even people who’d never stepped foot in a stadium were now wearing Stone Island and Lacoste. True casuals began to search for something more exclusive once more.
Brands like The North Face started gaining popularity. With black hooded jackets, many fans stayed anonymous—a useful tactic in an age of surveillance and security cameras. Labels such as MA.STRUM, adidas Spezial, and even Scandinavian names like Norse Projects started making their way into the casual wardrobe.
One striking moment in this evolution was when some supporters began removing the Stone Island compass badge from their jackets—not out of shame, but because the logo had become too common among outsiders.
The famous compass patch of Stone Island caused controversy too. Some police units believed it resembled the Celtic cross—a symbol used by neo-Nazis. Because of that, the brand temporarily fell out of favor with certain groups. Still, Stone Island managed to retain its cult status and remains one of the most beloved football casual brands across Europe.
In the United Kingdom, football casual culture is still going strong. For over 40 years, it has been a consistent part of the matchday experience. What started as a covert way to avoid police scrutiny has grown into a fashion movement that even influences high-end designers.
Key traits of football casuals in the UK:
Passion for football
The love for the club remains central. Home or away, casuals show up.
Style-conscious
Football casuals follow fashion trends—but they do it on their own terms.
Sense of community
This subculture is all about brotherhood, identity, and unspoken codes.
Generational influence
What started with young lads in the 80s now includes fathers and sons dressed alike on matchday.
In 2025, the subculture is more vibrant than ever. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok play a major role in spreading the style, but they also contribute to its dilution. Because of that, hardcore casuals continue seeking new, lesser-known brands or vintage treasures to maintain authenticity.
The newer generation is also more environmentally conscious. Sustainable alternatives to fast fashion are gaining traction within the scene. Still, what matters most is not the brand itself, but how you wear it.
Why has the football casual style remained so popular?
It radiates confidence and toughness
It shows you’re in-the-know, without needing to say a word
It’s a clear but subtle expression of identity
It combines comfort and style—perfect for long matchdays
On platforms like Instagram, you’ll find thousands of profiles dedicated to casual fashion. From mirror selfies to curated flat lays of outfit combinations, the culture is well-documented. The downside? It becomes easier for outsiders to mimic the style. That’s why loyal casuals keep innovating and seeking the next hidden gem.
At its core, football casual culture is about more than clothing. It’s about loyalty, self-expression, unity, and passion. Whether you support Celtic, Ajax, AS Roma, or Millwall—the values are often the same.
Trends come and go, but football casuals are here to stay. As long as football exists, there will be supporters who want to stand out. Who see clothing not just as a necessity, but as a badge of honor.
Football casuals are more than just stylish football fans. They represent a brotherhood with unique codes, iconic clothing, and a rich history. From the streets of Liverpool to the metros of Rotterdam, the subculture is alive, evolving, and as captivating as ever.
What does the term ‘football casuals’ mean?
Football casuals refer to a subculture of football supporters who express their passion for the game not just through chants or banners, but through high-end, stylish clothing. Originating in the UK in the late 1970s, the term “casuals” was used to describe fans who deliberately avoided wearing club colors or jerseys. Instead, they opted for premium brands like Stone Island, Lacoste, and Fred Perry to stay under the radar of police while attending matches. Over the decades, this evolved into a fashion-driven movement that signifies identity, exclusivity, and loyalty to both club and community.
Which brands are most associated with football casuals?
Several designer labels have become synonymous with the football casual aesthetic. The most iconic is Stone Island, known for its signature compass badge and durable outerwear. Other staples include C.P. Company with its goggle jackets, Fred Perry polos, adidas Spezial sneakers, and high-end British brands like Burberry and Aquascutum. Over time, more streetwear and outdoor brands like The North Face, MA.STRUM, and Norse Projects have found their way into the scene. The key is that clothing must be both stylish and practical for matchday wear, while also carrying a sense of exclusivity.
Is football casual fashion only for football fans?
While the roots of the casual style are deeply connected to football, the aesthetic has moved far beyond the stadium. Today, football casual clothing is worn by people who may never attend a match. However, within the subculture, authenticity is still vital. Those considered true casuals often have years of connection to the sport and the lifestyle. That said, the crossover into mainstream fashion has brought new life into the look, with designers and influencers embracing elements of the casual wardrobe in everyday streetwear.
Are football casuals linked to hooliganism?
Historically, there is a connection between the rise of football casuals and hooligan firms in the UK. During the 70s and 80s, wearing designer clothing was a tactic used by hooligans to avoid detection by the police, who were focused on fans wearing club kits or traditional hooligan attire like bomber jackets. However, today the casual scene is much broader and more fashion-focused. While the aggressive and territorial roots can’t be ignored, most modern casuals are more interested in the cultural, aesthetic, and social elements than in violence or confrontation.
How can I dress like a football casual?
To embody the football casual style, focus on classic pieces with heritage and brand recognition. Start with a neutral-colored Stone Island jacket—preferably with the compass badge still attached. Combine it with slim-fit jeans, adidas sneakers (like the Samba, Gazelle, or Spezial), and a polo shirt or lightweight sweater from brands like Fred Perry or C.P. Company. Layering is key, as is keeping your look clean and coordinated. Avoid flashy colors or oversized logos. Football casuals pride themselves on understated style that still sends a strong message to those in the know.
Why do some casuals remove the Stone Island patch?
The Stone Island compass badge is one of the most recognized symbols in the football casual world. However, as the brand became more popular with the general public and was adopted by non-football fans and celebrities, some hardcore casuals began removing the badge to reclaim exclusivity. To them, the compass patch had become too visible, too mainstream. By wearing the garment without the logo, they maintained the quality and style of the brand while subtly signaling their deeper connection to the culture.