World Cup fever swept the globe in June, so it might be hard to remember what else happened this month. Thankfully, The Style Ref was paying attention! Check out June's hails (worth cheering about) and fails (worth sneering about) in sports fan fashion and style.
HAIL!
Footwork isn't the only thing that's fancy on the field at the 2014 World Cup - soccer cleats are having a moment and we can't take our eyes off them. Players have been sporting a stylish array of cleats in bright colors, mesmerizing patterns and even mismatched combinations that prompt a double-take (like did he forget his other cleat somewhere?). Even if you've never worn a pair of soccer cleats, it's easy to appreciate the artistry of their design.
fail.
The caxirola was supposed to be Brazil's version of the memorable vuvuzela that fans couldn't get enough of during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Guess it didn't live up to expectations - the noisemaker is nowhere to be seen or heard. Better luck next World Cup!
HAIL!
One of the best things about the World Cup, much like the Olympics, is the national pride it inspires around the world. Individuals, communities and nations come together through sports to celebrate universal values like hard work, determination and hope. On this global stage, every country has an opportunity to make their mark and no matter where you're from, it's an incredible event to witness.
fail.
Beats by Dr. Dre had been doing everything right: first a historic announcement that Apple would acquire the headphone company for $3 billion, then a mini movie featuring World Cup soccer stars and all the while, lots of talk about the coronation of hip hop's first billionaire, Dr. Dre, the majority owner of Beats Electronics. The headphones were poised to make a big splash at the World Cup, until FIFA banned players from wearing them due to a licensing deal with Sony. Bye bye, Beats.
HAIL!
If you haven't heard of 11-year-old golf phenom Lucy Li, here's your wake-up call. She may be young, but her fresh, youthful style is injecting new energy into a sport that battles an image problem: many find golf just plain boring. Li is exactly the boost it needs, especially since she seems to have a flair for fashion, something golf could definitely use more of to attract new fans.
fail.
The Washington Redskins have experienced decades of unresolved controversy over its team name; that's old news. However, the United States Patent and Trademark Office recently reignited the conversation when it canceled the team's trademark registration because the name is "disparaging to Native Americans." The same thing occurred 15 years ago, but was later overturned by a judge. Could this time be different?
Sports are supposed to bring people together, so instead of waging legal battles over the team's name, all parties should come to the table to finally reach a compromise. In the end, this fight is all about a word that some feel unfairly characterizes Native Americans. If we all agree that one word doesn't define a population, why should it define a team? No matter what happens, the Washington Redskins are much more than a name.
Do you think TSR got it right? Leave your Hails and Fails for June in the comments!
XO,
The Style Ref
Images via For the Win 1 & 2, University Herald, National Catholic Reporter, Deadspin, Before It's News
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