History Of F.C. Real Bristol (F.C.R.B)
To learn about F.C. Real Bristol (F.C.R.B) we have to go all the way back to 1999. Founder of Japanese label SOPHNET., Hirofumi Kiyonaga, had always been a football fan and with the World Cup in Japan on the horizon in 2002, he wanted to fill a gap in the market with football specific lifestyle apparel. He saw it as a way of showing his support for the tournament in the way he knew how - through his passion for design.
Prior to the creation of SOPHNET., Kiyonaga worked under the tutelage of Jean Touitou of A.P.C. Touitou is one of the most famous street fashion designers in France, so the ability to work closely with him allowed Kiyonaga to learn the importance of creating on a fundamental level, placing significance on all details and ideas—not just producing clothing for the sake of it.
Prior to the creation of SOPHNET., Kiyonaga worked under the tutelage of Jean Touitou of A.P.C. Touitou is one of the most famous street fashion designers in France, so the ability to work closely with him allowed Kiyonaga to learn the importance of creating on a fundamental level, placing significance on all details and ideas—not just producing clothing for the sake of it.
During these early years, Kiyonaga had always fantasised about having his own professional team and designing the kits and off-field gear. If he couldn't do it in a real physical sense, he thought he could conceptualise a fantasy-style team and create gear for players and supporters under a club banner that didn't actually exist—F.C. Real Bristol.
His interest in music, especially from Bristol in the UK, was a big influence on his new brand. Bands like Massive Attack, pioneers of the 'Bristol Sound', served as the inspiration behind the F.C. Real Bristol name. Massive Attack was so influential to him that he decided the FCRB brand logo should pay homage to the Massive Attack logo.
For twenty years now, the brand has aimed to infuse street-style with athletic clothing staples, creating unique sportswear and streetwear. The brand strives to be a pinnacle product that, while stylish, also remains functional.
In the early 2000s, it wasn't long before Nike noticed the heat emerging from Japan and became involved in collaborations. Nike embraced the new creative concept and decided to develop the gear.
It's pretty amazing to think that one of the biggest companies in the world got involved to sponsor an imaginary football club at the time. This connection significantly elevated the FCRB brand into another realm, sparking immense interest not only in Japan but globally.
Kiyonaga eventually materialised the imaginary concept into the real world when he secured a deal to sponsor his local football club, Oita Trinita.
The club currently competes in the J1 League after a five-year absence from the top flight. Kiyonaga attends every home game in Ōita to support the club, hoping to witness their return to the J-League soon.
In addition to sponsoring an outdoor football team, Kiyonaga also initiated a futsal collection, FCRB-FIVE, and sponsored Oita Vasagey in the Japanese F League.
FCRB's contribution to the football scene, viewed through the lens of the fashion industry, has garnered significant support from top J-League athletes. In 2021, FCRB continues to grow as an influential imaginary big club.
Since its inception, FCRB has collaborated with brands such as Casio, Mastermind, Helinox, Swarovski, New Era, and now the Spanish-based football brand, Meyba
Those of you who know us well will remember our Meyba Season 1 lifestyle collection earlier this year. With FCRB and Meyba now collaborating... stay tuned. We might have something big on the horizon.
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