Blokecore has taken socials by storm, but what is it, and why should you care?
Perhaps you didn’t know there was a name for it, but you don’t have to scroll TikTok for long before you see it. The vintage footy shirt (that’s ‘soccer’ for any Americans in the building); the light-wash Levi’s; the Adidas sneakers. It’s not exactly a cutting-edge look, particularly if you’re from the UK where this is pretty much the unofficial match-day uniform down the local boozer. But now the aesthetic has been adopted by a younger, more fashionable and largely American crowd. Welcome to what the social-media generation is calling ‘blokecore’.
Like most modern trends, blokecore was born and bred on the Discover page and the For You feed. Its proponents post content fetishising UK working-class culture – from necking lager and fanboying over the Gallagher brothers to trailing thrift-store rails for retro football regalia and pre-loved Stone Island. It’s all served up with a nice crisp pint of irony, but that hasn’t stopped it from catching on.
Maybe you’ve heard the word and thought you’d give it a Google. Or perhaps you’re a would-be adopter looking for the best blokecore brands to nail the look. Whatever your questions are, we’ll do our best to answer them here.
What is blokecore?
At its core, blokecore is a trend born in 2022 that borrows heavily from the UK football terraces of the ‘80s and ‘90s. The term ‘bloke’ refers to the average working-class UK man, and the blockcore aesthetic leans into that idea.
Rooted in football, blokecore has its origins in the ‘casual’ movement – a UK subculture based around militant sports fandom, post-match brawls and expensive European designer clothes. The casuals split their time equally between football and fashion, but for the blokecore crowd, it’s less about the beautiful game and more about the clothes.
Key blokecore pieces
Retro Football Shirts
The retro football shirt is central to blokecore. Vintage football kits, whether club or national, stand as the most iconic part of this look. These shirts, often oversized and sporting bold logos or nostalgic sponsor designs, create an effortless, terrace-inspired aesthetic.
They add history and personality to an outfit, serving as a key statement that ties blokecore together. Teams like England, Arsenal, and Manchester United have seen their vintage shirts rise in popularity again, partly due to brands reissuing classic designs. Whether matched with denim or track bottoms, retro shirts give an immediate nod to football culture and bring a splash of colour.
Straight-Leg Jeans
Straight-leg jeans are another blokecore essential. Their simple cut and relaxed fit reflect the casual, practical spirit of the trend. Football fans have worn them for decades, finding the perfect balance between function and style.
In blokecore, these jeans are often paired with vintage shirts or simple tees, creating a laid-back silhouette that aligns with the aesthetic. Levi’s has long dominated this style, with classic options like the 501 offering durability and timeless appeal. Whether in light or dark washes, straight-leg jeans should feel effortless, not overly styled. Comfort and ease of movement are at the heart of this look, rather than tight, form-fitting cuts.
Adidas sneakers
Adidas sneakers are an essential component of blokecore. Think of them as the anchor for the entire aesthetic. Classics like the Samba and Gazelle are a huge part of the look, and have become cultural icons in their own right, worn by football fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.
These sneakers perfectly match the blokecore vibe, with their clean lines, bold colours, and iconic three-stripe design. They provide the comfort needed for match days but have the style to be worn casually in the pub too. The resurgence of these models in recent years is a testament to their enduring appeal. If you're sick of Sambas, check out the Spezial line for some less common classics from the Three Stripes archives.
Bucket Hats
The bucket hat has become a blokecore icon, heavily tied to the 'Madchester' music movement with its connections to football casuals. Originally worn by football fans for rain protection, it now offers a retro, stylish edge to outfits.
Its round, relaxed shape pairs perfectly with blokecore’s casual, low-key vibe. The bucket hat works with nearly any outfit, making it a versatile piece that completes the look without standing out too much. Whether choosing muted tones for a minimalist look or bold colours to pair with a retro football shirt, the bucket hat effortlessly ties the outfit together.
The Brands Behind Blokecore
Adidas Originals
Adidas Originals has played a pivotal role in the rise of blokecore, with its deep-rooted connection to both football and streetwear. Its classic designs, especially the Samba and Gazelle, have long been fan favourites.
These shoes, known for their simple yet enduring style, are a go-to for blokecore followers. Adidas Originals extends beyond just footwear. The brand has also reissued a variety of retro football shirts, tracksuits, and windbreakers, which are key pieces in blokecore fashion. Whether on the terrace or the streets, Adidas is central to blokecore's identity.
Levi’s
Levi’s is synonymous with denim, making it a natural fit for blokecore. Its iconic straight-leg jeans, particularly the 501 and 505 models, have become staples for blokecore enthusiasts.
Levi’s combines durability and heritage with style, fitting neatly into blokecore’s ethos of practicality. These jeans form the perfect base for casual, effortless blokecore outfits, whether paired with vintage football shirts or classic trainers. As trends come and go, Levi’s denim continues to maintain its place in blokecore fashion.
Fila
Fila’s retro sportswear has cemented its place as a key brand in blokecore. Known for bold colour blocking and clean lines, Fila tracksuits and sweatshirts have become symbols of the 90s revival in this trend.
The brand’s history in both tennis and football naturally connects it to blokecore’s sporting roots. Fila’s appeal is in its ability to capture the essence of the era while staying current. Whether in classic red, white, and navy or more subdued tones, Fila is a favourite for those looking to channel blokecore.
Sergio Tacchini
Once a staple among football fans in the 80s and 90s, Sergio Tacchini has found new relevance through blokecore. Its iconic tracksuits and polo shirts are back, now appreciated by a new generation.
Tacchini’s designs, with their understated branding and subtle colourways, fit seamlessly into blokecore’s minimalist aesthetic. The brand’s long history in sportswear ensures its ongoing relevance in blokecore wardrobes.
Lee
Lee’s workwear roots make it a natural match for blokecore’s practical approach to fashion. Known for its durable denim and straightforward design, Lee offers jeans and jackets that reflect the no-nonsense spirit of the trend.
The brand’s reputation for quality craftsmanship has made it a mainstay in blokecore, where authenticity is key. Lee’s denim pairs effortlessly with blokecore’s vintage football shirts and Adidas trainers, solidifying its role in the movement.
Stone Island
Stone Island is one of the most recognised names in football culture, and its influence is undeniable in blokecore. The brand’s technical fabrics and military-inspired designs have made it a favourite on the terraces and beyond.
With its signature compass patch, Stone Island’s jackets and sweatshirts offer a refined take on casual sportswear, making them highly sought-after pieces. Their blend of innovation and quality has made Stone Island a symbol of blokecore’s evolution from football terraces to fashion runways.
C.P. Company
C.P. Company, much like Stone Island, has its roots in technical sportswear that have been adopted by football fans. Known for utilitarian designs and unique elements like goggle hoods, C.P. Company’s pieces add an edge to the blokecore aesthetic.
The brand’s focus on materials and innovation has built a cult following within blokecore. Jackets, bombers, and overshirts from C.P. Company provide the right balance of function and style, making them essential in any blokecore wardrobe.
Umbro
Umbro has been deeply connected to football since its inception, making it a natural part of the blokecore movement. Best known for its football kits, Umbro has re-emerged with a line of vintage designs that are perfect for blokecore followers.
From retro jerseys to windbreakers, Umbro’s long-standing ties to football make it an essential brand in blokecore. Its pieces capture the laid-back, sport-inspired style that defines this trend.
Looking for the right shoes? Check out our handy Adidas Samba sizing guide before you buy
