Rare Finds and Vintage Fashion in Football
a conversation with “Classic Football Shirts” Co-Owner Matthew Dale
In the heart of New York City, amidst the vibrant energy, I had the opportunity to sit down with Matthew Dale, the co-founder of Classic Football Shirts, a haven for vintage football apparel enthusiasts. As we delved into the realm of iconic jerseys, rare finds, and the journey of building a thriving business, Dale shared insights and stories that encapsulate the essence of his passion.
Favorite Jerseys and Rare Gems
When asked about his all-time favorite jersey, Matthew's nostalgic smile surfaced, reminiscing about the Arsenal 95 away shirt. "It was the first shirt I ever had growing up as a child, as an Arsenal fan," he recalled, emphasizing its iconic design with zigzag patterns. The conversation seamlessly transitioned to discussing rare pieces, like the elusive one-off shirts worn in specific matches, such as Arsenal's encounter against Lens in the 1999 Champions League. Dale and his team secured one of these match-worn treasures, an achievement that highlights the dedication and meticulous pursuit of rare football apparel.
Authenticating the Essence
With 17 years of expertise, Classic Football Shirts has mastered the art of authentication. Dale shared insights into their process, emphasizing the importance of product codes and a keen eye for details. He recounted a recent encounter where an individual attempted to sell well-made counterfeit shirts as a test, validating the team's authenticity prowess and ultimately becoming a satisfied customer.
Impact of Blokecore and Vintage Fashion
Reflecting on the evolving landscape of fashion and social trends, Dale acknowledged the rise of vintage fashion, particularly the allure of football shirts in the blokecore movement. He emphasized how these shirts represent not only teams and players but also eras, becoming a fusion of fashion and football culture.
Collecting Dreams and Entrepreneurial Journey
When asked about wishlist items, Dale's enthusiasm for acquiring unique pieces shone through. He expressed a desire for exclusive match-worn shirts, showcasing a perpetual hunger to unearth rare gems. Reflecting on his journey into collecting and entrepreneurship, Dale credited his childhood passion for football shirts and the opportune moment post-university that led to founding Classic Football Shirts.
The End Goal and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Dale's vision for the future remains open-ended, driven by the overwhelming positive response received during their recent tour. His advice to young collectors and aspiring business owners echoed the importance of patience, self-belief, hard work, and persistence. He emphasized the value of consistent effort over time, highlighting that success isn't an overnight achievement but a culmination of dedicated steps forward.
Final Showdown: Messi vs. Ronaldo
As our conversation drew to a close, the inevitable question emerged - Messi or Ronaldo? Dale's allegiance leaned toward Messi, concluding our engaging discussion with a lighthearted yet definitive response.
Matthew Dale's journey through the world of Classic Football Shirts and vintage apparel is not just a testament to entrepreneurship but also a celebration of unwavering passion and dedication. His insights serve as a beacon for those embarking on their own ventures, reminding us that success stems from a blend of commitment, knowledge, and an unyielding love for what one does.
