While I may not be a football expert, I do recognize its undeniable influence on fashion and beauty. From David Beckham’s iconic hair bands to the modern-day curtain bangs of Jack Grealish, football has always served as a platform for stylish expressions. However, it was during the 90s and early 2000s that a golden era of female beauty emerged, driven by the wives and girlfriends of football players, affectionately known as WAGs.
The WAGs of that era were synonymous with luminous tans, high-octane highlights, and a glamorous aesthetic that was considered the epitome of cool. Their over-plucked eyebrows and ultra-glam looks perfectly captured the spirit of the times. While we might chuckle at those trends today, in the age of the ‘natural’ look, it’s important to remember that back then, everything was about going big and bold. It was a time of Macarena dances and uninhibited exuberance.
Fast forward to today, and the WAGs continue to set beauty trends, although their influence is now more readily seen on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The modern WAG embraces a polished and preened aesthetic, drawing inspiration from icons like Victoria Beckham, Abbey Clancy, Cheryl Cole, and Coleen Rooney. Big bombshell blow-outs have made a triumphant return, the love for bronzer remains eternal, and the French manicure has re-emerged as a hot nail trend.
As the Euros 2024 unfolds, it’s the perfect time to reminisce about the legendary beauty moments of the past. Victoria Beckham, in her prime, embodied the WAG aesthetic, from her signature tan to her oversized sunglasses, effortlessly radiating a sense of effortless style. Her sweeping side fringe became a defining WAG hairstyle, embracing volume, big-barrel curls, and smoldering eyes.
Abbey Clancy, another iconic WAG, knows how to work the look. Her style exudes confidence and glamour, showcasing the best of WAG beauty. It’s impossible to forget the time Shakira graced the WAG scene, bringing a more undone, natural aesthetic to the forefront. Her long-term relationship with Spanish footballer, Gerard Piqué, solidified her place as a fashion icon.
Elen Rivas, a former partner of Frank Lampard, also epitomized the WAG style. Her pin-thin eyebrows, fake tan, and slicked-back hairstyle perfectly captured the essence of the era. So, while trends may evolve, the essence of WAG beauty remains timeless. As we celebrate the Euros 2024, let’s take a moment to appreciate the enduring legacy of WAG fashion and beauty.
