It’s probably safe to say that a love of the game isn't the thing that football fans and Alexa Chung have in common. And, we think we’re safe to assume that Chung doesn’t spend her Saturday afternoons shoulder-to-shoulder beer-swigging with stadium crowds. But, there is one element that unites this unlikely coupling - the football scarf.
In line with the current appetite for athleisure wear - see Supreme’s popularity - the humble acrylic football scarf has become a common sighting at both fashion week and the terraces. Though the team the style set support is more likely to support is Moschino than Manchester United. While Gosha Rubchinskiy and Vetements were among the first labels to pitch the scarf as a curveball trend, it’s Alexa Chung’s recent win that’s pricked our attention (see here).
Much like the scratchy renditions sold by the best of the Premier League, Chung’s is brazenly decorated with a crest, stripes and a fat graphic font. However, unlike its cheap inspiration, it’s made from a merino wool mix and is limited edition, with only 50 available to purchase.
Once upon a time fakes were a fashion no-no. Buying a counterfeit made you a try-hard, a sellout. But, then the industry discovered irony and realised there was cache in having a sense of humour. Since Alessandro Michele showed fake Gucci T-shirts and Marc Jacobs’ collaborated with bootleg-creator Ava Nirui, high-end knockoffs have become the style sets new obsession. It’s bad taste-meets-good taste at its peak.
For discerning types, pick a style that echoes that of a non-existent team, like Chung’s garnet and black piece, or Gosha’s vibrant yellow. Or, if you’re really ready to commit to the game by into a team whose kit comes in a compelling colour, like Napoli FC who wears a pretty sky blue or Scotland’s national team that favours hot pink.