Art of the Terraces- The truth behind fashion in football Page 9

By Matthew Buckley

Football has always had an influence on many peoples fashion across the UK. From “hooligans” to the average fan, the sport tends to have an impact on their choice of clothing.

The Walker Art Gallery recently hosted an exhibition named “Art of the Terraces” to show this off and tell the story of a movement that defined sports culture of the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s. It showed the work of contempary artists and designers who have been influence by the fashion over the last 40 years whilst celebrating the cultural scene that has been overlooked by the mainstream art world. In the exhibition there was a range of paintings and displays telling the story of the changes in fashion amongst the terraces. Mark Leckey, an artist in the exhibition, said “we wanted to give people a chance to come and explore the our pieces that really tell the story of the terraces through a creative eye.”

The gallery took you through different stages of the football fashion from away days to the north and then as far as the trainers people would wear. It showed the background of the sports shoes in Liverpool and Manchester where the football casuals shifted to wearing brands such as Adidas, Puma, Diadora and Nike in the 1970’s. This has consequently stuck and carried on in to modern day football with the trainer still being the go too footwear for the self described “hooligans”. Leckey said “most fans can connect with our work, whether that’s the shoes, or the rest beecause any proper fan from that era has once worn the same clothes.” It was clear in the gallery that the fashion of the terraces was the same throughout.

Fashion not only changes in the terraces but on the pitch. Footballers tend to change their styles regularly depending on sponsorships and brand deals. Often it seems footballers go by the saying, “look good, feel good, feel good, play good, get paid good.” However, it doesnt always tend to go right with what the players decide to rock up in.

In recent years there has been many “failed” attempts at fashion which often creates a platform for people to joke about it on social media. Two faces who have played in Liverpool this season have been at the brunt of the jokes. Dominic

Calvert-Lewin and Anthony Gordon have both encountered their fair share of criticism to do with their dress sense. This has come with their more outlandish approach to what they wear from wacky sunglasses to interesting turtle neck. It’s all just proof of the change of fashion in football. From the standard “hooligan” attire of the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s, to the crazy pieces of clothing today, their has been a huge change in the way footballers and football fans dress. Despite this their are still the “hardcore” fans who grew up loving the game and the away days, dressing the way they did back in their youth.

To be filled due to Ross extension-10th April

To be filled due to Ross extension-10th April

To be filled due to Ross extension-10th April

To be filled due to Ross extension-10th April