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Football Shirts
Aston Villa / 93 days agoAston Villa players are unhappy with their current jerseys from manufacturer Castore. The issue, however, is not necessarily with the colors or design of the shirts. Instead, the material of the jerseys makes the players uncomfortable during matches. According to The Telegraph, Villa players have complained to club officials and kit manufacturer Castore about the […]
Vintage Football Shirts: The Best And Oddest From Every Big London Club
Classic vs cult collectable shirts from 12 London League clubs.
Peris Hatton is one of the UK's best-known collectors and traders of football shirts, with a seemingly magical supply of rare, vintage finds. His new book, The Shirt Hunter is a story of that obsession. It features more than 500 vintage shirts, complete with stunning visuals and eyebrow-raising anecdotes, plus an A-Z covering every aspect of the football shirt as a cult object of desire, nostalgia... And rocketing cash value.
We asked him to go through his jaw-dropping collection and pick out the coolest shirts worn by all the London clubs – one nailed-on classic, and one cult/collectable shirt that veered towards the weird...
Arsenal
Classic: 1991 Adidas away
The early '90s would see the start of a trend for garishness in football shirts, and the 'bruised banana' was one of the frontrunners. Much maligned at the time, it has since become one the most sought-after Arsenal shirts among fans, even more so than the legendary '89 Anfield shirt.
Weird: 2005 Nike home
Staying on the fruit theme, Arsenal's redcurrant home shirt caught absolutely everyone by surprise, a shocking break with tradition. Fans loved the sentiment of remembering the final season at Highbury, but the misconception that this colour was used historically by the club lets it down. And as for the missing white sleeves…
Brentford
Classic: 2000 Patrick home
Patrick is a classy, classic French brand which produced kits for British clubs from 1980 to around 2005. This long-sleeved player shirt from 2000 is a stormer, with perfect symmetry of stripes, badges classically centred on the white stripes, and a stylish collar.
Weird: 1992 Hummel home
This Hummel 'KLM' is an oddity, if only because of Brentford's ten-year sponsorship deal with Dutch airline KLM, which extended to the roof of Griffin Park's New Road stand. Situated on the Heathrow flightpath, the massive message "Next time you'd better fly KLM" surely hit the target market. And then there's the vexed question of whether those fluffy white diagonal lines are meant to represent vapour trails!?
Charlton Athletic
Classic: 1986 Adidas home
You can imagine the conversation between the Charlton chairman and the Adidas rep: "You've just been promoted to the First Division? Time to ditch Osca, the lovable local London brand, and join the sumptuous Adidas party!" Simple, stately and sublime, the 1986 shirt's classic status was further elevated by being sponsor-free.
Weird: 1996 Quaser away
Quaser were one of those blink-and-you'll-miss-'em brands from the crazy design haze of the '90s. But, boy, did they leave their mark with three of the best away shirts produced during the decade, including this purple and green striped eyecatcher – in this case an ultra-rare reserves shirt with alternative sponsor.
Chelsea
Classic: 2005 Umbro home
The last in an 18-year association between Chelsea and Umbro, both parties going out in style with the retention of the Premier League title. The commemorative club centenary badge takes it up yet a further notch along with the stunning Gold X-Static trim.
Weird: 1983-85 Le Coq Sportif home
How else could Le Coq follow up 1981-83's vertical pinstripe design except with horizontal hoops of royal and pale blue, artfully separated by thin red and white bands? Gets the nod ahead of the Blues' 'tangerine and graphite' '90s monstrosity (i.E. Highly sought-after nearly 30 years later) by dint of the players you visualise when you see this shirt. Pat Nevin, Kerry Dixon…
Crystal Palace
Classic: 1994 Nutmeg home
US brand Nutmeg, better known for basketball and American football kit, flirted very briefly with the UK football replica market in the mid '90s, and produced this classic red and blue striped effort for Palace. Shirt sponsors TDK instantly bring back memories of the '80s and '90s… and, at least in my case, hundreds of LPs home-taped on C-90 cassettes, blaring in my sky-blue Laser Capri!
Weird: 1978 Admiral home
With Palace changing their home kit colours as often as most lads changed their grundies back in the '70s, it was only a matter of time before they alighted on a sash design. And then this latest oddity slowly gained recognition as one of the finest examples in football history. Leicester-based Admiral effectively invented the modern football shirt industry, introducing glam, go-faster designs, external logos as a matter of course, adult-sized replicas and manufacturer sponsorship deals.
Fulham
Classic: 1984 Umbro home
If a shadow-stripe design gets you going, then Fulham's 1984 home shirt is the one that will see you dribble over to the point of dehydration. Matched with the stylish pinstriped V-neck collar and narrow black piping, Umbro really did tick every box here. An understated delight.
Weird: Osca 1981 away
If lower-division football was your thing in the early '80s, the chances are you'll have seen an Osca shirt being worn by several of the capital's clubs. This is a typically smart, no-nonsense template from the local London manufacturer – it's just a coincidence that it brings to mind the crew from Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Leyton Orient
Classic: 1989 Ribero
Ribero produced some belting kits in the late '80s and early '90s – we're talking Norwich 'egg and cress', Brighton 'Chewits' – with this businesslike O's shirt from 1989 representing the smart and sensible end of their spectrum. Classic period V-neck, subtle version of the shadow print that gave rise to Coventry's legendary 'shattered windscreen' shirt. And the obligatory nostalgia-inducing lower-division sponsor!
Weird: 1980 Adidas home
If Ribero made some belters then we shouldn't forget the braces! The 1980 Adidas 'braces' design, to be precise! Following on from a similar design by Admiral the previous season, I'm struggling to understand why the designers thought it would be a good idea to persist with this apparently useless idea – unless it had something to do with Madness's 'Baggy Trousers' of the same year?
Millwall
Classic: 1976 Bukta home
You can't talk about Millwall and football kits from the past 48 years without mentioning Bukta. This one was from the first of their three partnerships – the 1977 home shirt in the proper blue, with old-style badge and smart white striping on the collar and cuffs. The only potential oversight was the lack of Bukta's contemporary logo tape running down the sleeves, featuring rows of little stylised bucks.
Weird: 1995 Asics away
The Asics design team went the way of so many others in the mid '90s, either completely running out of ideas or aiming to be outrageous just for the sake of it. This half-and-half 1995 away shirt was a washing-machine accident just waiting to happen, with the white half inevitably ending up a creamy green colour. Decent sponsor, though!
QPR
Classic: Adidas 1985 home
The utter madness of QPR's ever-changing branding and kit design during the '70s was swapped for the serenity of stability from around 1983 onwards. This proper all-time classic is not only augmented by the introduction of red to the V-neck, three stripes and cuffs but also by having one the iconic shirt sponsors – raised yet a further notch by that font.
Weird: Umbro 1974 away
We wanna look like Feyenoord! "No problem at all," replied Umbro, promptly serving up this outlandish but quite magnificently stylish away kit from 1974, which was also produced by Adidas for the club. Completely random yet undeniably irresistible.
Tottenham Hotspur
Classic: 1981-82 Le Coq Sportif away
Any shirt that you wear in a Wembley Cup final where you get to lift the silverware is going to be lovingly remembered – as indeed is this silky Le Coq Sportif away shirt from 1982. Why, it's almost enough to forgive the manufacturer for putting the team badge in the centre of the shirt.
Weird: 2006 Puma away
Puma thanked Spurs for adopting them as kit suppliers in 2006 by producing a thoroughly memorable third shirt. What colour should they go with? Dark blue? Yellow? Green? No, we're going with brown! Of course, there's a reason why brown is one of the least used colours in the football spectrum, namely the additional abuse that fans (both for and against) will throw at the team if the game isn't going well. The only redeeming feature here is the gold trim, which should look like cheap and tatty bling… but does kinda make it work!
West Ham United
Classic: Fila 1999 away
This terrific away shirt illustrates how Fila sportswear really does belong on the football pitch – not just on the tennis court, or on the Boleyn Ground terraces sported with lemon-yellow golf slacks by Casual devotees. Heck, it just oozes sex appeal… talking of which, you can just picture Paolo di Canio wearing it in his pomp!
Weird: Adidas 1984 home
While mid-'80s Adidas kits are commonly acknowledged as some of the finest ever made, this 1984 Hammers outfit decidedly divides opinion. Something about it is just plain wrong. That big, basic light-blue panel across the chest, perhaps a botched reference to the claret hoops of the '60s? And that overstated sponsor logo doesn't help. Anyone who hated Admiral's fussy chevrons in the '70s probably hated this one as well.
AFC Wimbledon
Classic: Osca 1981 home
The wonderful 1981 Osca home shirt brilliantly combined the Dons' now-regular home colours of blue and yellow. This was the forerunner for the Spall version worn in the historic Cup final in 1988 when they beat a certain team from the north west – and, curiously enough, it's on the same template as the 'weird' Fulham selection!
Weird: 1997 Lotto away goalkeeper
Finally, a big thanks to the 1990s for not only giving us garish and hugely oversize 'baggy' shirts and shorts but also a comedy selection of over-the-top goalie shirts, designed using Spirograph, which resembled explosions in a paint factory. Clearly, there was some sort of competition going on among the brands of the time, and this Lotto entry is a real contender. Where's me sunglasses?
Enjoyed the trip down memory lane? There's hundreds more vintage shirts, with commentary, in The Shirt Hunter: One Man's Ceaseless Pursuit of Classic Football Kits, by Peris Hatton, with Derek Hammond & Gary Silke. Available now from Conker Editions
All images courtesy of Peris Hatton. Some of our links will take you to Bookshop.Org, which supports independent bookshops, and we may earn a small commission for recommending them.
Best Shapewear For Plus Size, Tried And Tested
There's nothing worse than being excited about an outfit, throwing it on for an event, a special occasion, or even everyday wear, and noticing every minor imperfection underneath the outfit. What you wear should be all about feeling confident in your clothes and loving how you look. If you crave a little assistance when it comes to making things look smooth and sculpted under jeans, dresses, and beyond, it's easy to find options like tummy control shapewear and more for a great price.
Everyone's shape is a little bit unique, so what works for one person may not be what works for another. It's important to understand the specific areas you need help with. Here is my list of eight pieces, from full body slips to stomach support panties, so you can set aside the cotton underwear for the night and feel your best in your clothes.
What to consider when choosing plus size shapewearWith so many options out there, it could be a little intimidating to know where to start if you're looking to choose the right piece for your body shape. There are a few things to take into consideration and understand before investing in a few shapewear garments.
CompressionThis is a big one because there are all kinds of firmness and compression levels, which lead to different comfort levels. If you're just looking to smooth out your natural shape, something light should do. If you're searching for a little more support, but you don't want to be too sucked in and slightly uncomfortable, medium is great. If you're looking to really cinch your waist and tighten everything up under your formal wear, go for the firm compression.
Build on your natural body typeDon't try to create something that isn't there, but rather enhance your natural look. Before buying, you'll want to understand your natural body shape to pick the right piece of shapewear. There are options out there for you; it just helps to narrow it down with so many choices on the market.
Comfortable fabricThis is a kicker, especially if you have sensitive skin. You don't want lace, clasps, or other materials rubbing up against you, causing irritation to the skin. Look for shapewear that's stretchy, but also breathes, and is ideally comfortable.
Our top picks Best budget shapewear for plus sizes: Shapermint Essentials All Day Every Day Scoop Neck Cami Before: After:The Shapermint Scoop Neck Cami is a great option, even when worn on its own under a loose sweater or with a pair of high waisted jeans. They tend to run a little small, so if you're looking for light or medium compression, maybe choose a size up. Their tank tops levels and smoothes your tummy and back, tucking in your waist a bit. The cami is comfortable and stretchy, so it's wearable all day.
Specifications:This is a great option to wear under a dress or tight shirt, or on its own with a loose sweater or with a nice pair of high waisted jeans.
Best budget shapewear for plus sizes
Shapermint Essentials All Day Every Day Scoop Neck Cami Best waist cincher shapewear for plus sizes: Maidenform Ultra-Firm Control Waist Cincher Before: After:
At first glance, I thought to myself, "There's no way that this is getting around my stomach." However, with a little elbow grease (really though, it took some effort getting it on), it creates a cinched waist look. This is definitely on the firm side, compressing tightly, so don't expect it to be the most comfortable option. The boning helps the shapewear stay in place, but if you're wearing something really tight with it, you can see it a bit. This would be a better option for something with patterns or some kind of design in the front, so you won't see the boning.
Specifications:This is a great option to suck in your stomach for formal events under a dress.
Best waist cincher shapewear for plus sizes
Maidenform Ultra-Firm Control Waist Cincher Black L Women's Best slip shapewear for plus sizes: Irisnaya Full Slip Body Shaper Before: After:
The Irisnaya Full Slip Body Shaper is so sleek and stylish, it can honestly be worn on its own. I got it in black and it creates a natural silhouette with mild tummy control and moderate compression. There is gripping around the bottom of the slip, so that it doesn't roll up, and the fabric is soft and smooth. The slip creates hourglass support that's seamless.
Specifications:This full body slip is simple and sleek, and can be worn on its own with a blazer or as a party dress.
Best slip shapewear for plus sizes
Irisnaya Women Shapewear Full Slip Tummy Control V Neck Cami Mini Under Dress Body Shaper Seamless Spaghetti Straps Lingerie (US, Alpha, 3X-Large, Regular, Regular, Black) Best tummy control bodysuit shapewear for plus sizes: SHAPELLX Shapewear Bodysuit Before: After:
If you're looking for a bodysuit that gives great stomach control and compression, this SHAPELLX seamless bodysuit is the ideal choice. There's not a huge color selection (just 2 options), but the bodysuit looks great under dresses, or simply on its own as a top. It's easy on the skin, but stretchy, leaving you with a nice shape that highlights your natural curvature. There are even buttons on the bodysuit to make using the restroom simple, without having to remove the whole suit.
Specifications:This is a great option to smooth everything out, and can even be worn on its own with a pair of jeans and a jacket.
Best tummy control bodysuit shapewear for plus sizes
SHAPELLX Bodysuit Shapewear Tummy Control Scoop Neck Nude Tank Tops For Women Butt Enhance Waist Trainer Vest Full Body Shaper(Beige,3X-large/4X-large) Best mid-thigh bodysuit shapewear for plus sizes: SHAPERX Bodysuit Before: After:
The SHAPERX Bodysuit can be bought as a bodysuit or a full bodysuit with mid-size shorts to prevent chafing. It sucks in your stomach, while shaping your chest and booty using a "butt lifter" design meant to help lift and tighten. This is a great bodysuit under a tight dress if you're looking for a little compression and a silky, smooth appearance.
Specifications:This bodysuit—available with and without shorts—is a great option to smooth everything out underneath a tight dress.
Best mid-thigh bodysuit shapewear for plus sizes
SHAPERX Shapewear for Women Tummy Control Bodysuit Mid Thigh Butt Lifter Body Shaper Shorts,SZ5218-2-Black-2XL/3XL Best shorts shapewear for plus sizes: Shapermint Essentials All Day Every Day High-Waisted Shaper Shorts Before: After:
The Shapermint High-Waisted Shaper Shorts were by far my favorite piece of shapewear. It's definitely a lighter compression option, but it prevents chafing and just sucks you in a bit, creating a slightly smoother look. It's comfortable enough to wear all day, especially when it's hot and sunny, under a maxi dress. Just keep in mind that the shorts are a little on the longer side, so it might not work with certain short dresses.
Specifications:The shorts are a great option for a little bit of tummy and chafing control.
Best shorts shapewear for plus sizes
Shapermint Essentials All Day Every Day High-Waisted Shaper Shorts Best tank top shapewear for plus sizes: SPANX Socialight Cami Before: After:
The Spanx Socialight Cami that was delivered to me looked a little different than the picture on Amazon. It didn't have adjustable straps like in the picture and just looked like a normal tank top. At first glance, it wasn't compressed or tiny like other pieces of shapewear. It provides light compression and the material is soft and comfortable. A great light compression option for layering and smoothing. Shopping tip: Spanx also made our lists for the best flared leggings (yes, they make a shapewear option!), best t-shirt bras, and the best shapewear.
Specifications:This tank is a great option for providing light compression and support, naturally smoothing out your stomach and back slightly.
Best tank top shapewear for plus sizes
Spanx Women's Socialight Cami Tank Top Best brief shapewear for plus sizes: Naomi and Nicole Comfort Plus Hi Waist Brief Before: After:
A simple piece of underwear with a really high waist to shape your stomach and suck in that pesky muffin top under tight dresses and tops should be in everyone's wardrobe. The Naomi and Nicole Comfort Plus Hi Waist Brief is a great piece for doing just that, with silicone around the elastic to prevent rolling and slipping.
Specifications:A great piece for under a dress or tight outfit for an event, or a night out to give you good tummy control.
Best brief shapewear for plus sizes
Naomi & Nicole Shapewear Women's Plus Size Unbelievable Comfort Hi Waist Brief 7775, Size: 2XL, Med Beige How I selected the best shapewear for plus sizes
I personally tried each piece myself, while also researching reviews, good and bad, to understand the proper body types each piece would work best for.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Should you size up or down in shapewear?When it comes to your size, I suggest sticking to your regular clothing size when buying shapewear. Shapewear pieces should feel secure and sculpt the natural curvature of your body, while not squeezing you so hard it's uncomfortable.
Does shapewear really work?The proof is in the pudding. Shapewear definitely works. It momentarily smoothes out and supports your natural body shape, giving you a little confidence boost, so you feel better in your clothes.
What is the best tummy control shapewear for plus sizes?Almost every piece of shapewear out there offers some kind of tummy control, so this is a loaded question. It really depends on what level of tummy control you're looking for, but my personal best suggestion would be the SHAPELLX Shapewear Bodysuit. This bodysuit offers natural curvature and cinches your waist, while not compressing your breasts.
Is expensive shapewear worth it?Based on the reviews and my personal experience, these pieces are all affordable and work well. It doesn't necessarily need to be from one of the best lingerie brands to be a great piece of shapewear. However, a lot of luxury shapewear brands put an emphasis on using high-end materials, blending firm compression with comfort. That said, if you're looking to invest in more expensive pieces, there's a good chance it will be worth it, but again, it's not really necessary.
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