Hardcover
The Golden Age of Italian Football Fashion
In the sweltering summer of 1992, as Paul Gascoigne stepped onto Italian soil sporting his trademark cheeky grin, few could have predicted the seismic shift about to rock the footballing world. Blair masterfully captures this watershed moment in 'Football Kit Italia', painting a vivid portrait of an era when Serie A wasn't just the best league in the world—it was in a league of its own.
The author's meticulous attention to detail shines through as he chronicles how the distinctive designs of Italian football kits became cultural touchstones. Blair's narrative skilfully blends the artistry of kit manufacturers such as Kappa and Diadora with the vibrant personalities who donned them, resulting in a tapestry brimming with both style and substance.
Take, for instance, his brilliant analysis of Fiorentina's infamous 1992-93 away kit, complete with its unintentionally controversial geometric patterns. Blair doesn't merely describe the kit; he contextualises it within the broader cultural landscape, explaining how these designs reflect Italy's fashion-forward sensibilities while simultaneously pushing boundaries in sports aesthetics.
The author's passionate exploration of the relationship between Channel 4's groundbreaking coverage and British football culture is particularly enlightening. Through firsthand accounts and previously unpublished interviews, Blair reveals how James Richardson's Saturday morning cappuccino-and-Gazzetta routine became as much a part of British football culture as a pie at half-time.
Blair's work truly excels in its ability to establish connections between fashion, football, and cultural evolution. His examination of how Roberto Baggio's distinctive purple Fiorentina kit influenced an entire generation of football supporters is both scholarly and deeply personal. The author's own experiences as a kit collector add an authentic voice to the narrative, making complex design histories accessible and utterly engaging.
Blair's ability to capture the essence of what made this period so special—the combination of charismatic players, innovative broadcasting, and revolutionary kit design that transformed Serie A into a global phenomenon—is perhaps most impressive. His description of Gabriel Batistuta's iconic celebration in the 1998-99 Fiorentina home kit serves as a perfect metaphor for the era itself: bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Delivered to You 1st Week September 2025
Some publishers release new titles early, so our ETA above could change.
Published: August 28, 2025
Price: £29.99
Paperback: 256 pages
ISBN-10: 1836801750
ISBN-13: 9781836801757
Dimensions: 286 x 246 (mm)
Why Pre-order?
Since 2022, we've observed that publishers often opt for smaller print runs to manage costs effectively. This process has occasionally resulted in stock shortages. We strongly recommend pre-ordering to secure your copy and avoid disappointment.
