Dedicated followers of fashion follow in Gareth's waistcoat way
Gareth Southgate is not just making an impact in Russia, his fine form abroad has also set trends in the fashion world.
Marks & Spencer says sales of all waistcoats have gone up by 35 per cent, despite the recent heatwave.
Big stores across the Midlands have sold out and are telling customers they will have put in an order and wait.
The retailer has been England's official suit sponsor since 2007, and Southgate has now made the waistcoat everyday attire for many.
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The 47-year-old's light blue shirt, red, white and blue tie and dark navy blue waistcoat outfit has become a symbol of the England team, with some saying that's what's bringing England's form.
Rachel Williams, Store Manager at M&S Shrewsbury said: “With England making it through to the semi-finals of the World Cup, there’s been an amazing atmosphere in the town.
"We're now having to do Southgate's exact waistcoat to order here as it's a smaller store, but our team is very proud to see the M&S waistcoat worn by Gareth Southgate getting so much national attention and people across the country rushing out to buy one.”
Sam Gavin, Senior Account Manager at M&S, said: "Some say the waistcoat is sending the team good luck, and we're asking the nation to get behind our team and show them support.
"Let's show our boys and the world’s most stylish manager our support for bringing it home."
David Binns, Head of Menswear Buying at M&S said, “We launched our national waistcoat day for the quarter finals, and now England have reached the semi finals, and frankly, we could not be more excited.”
To celebrate the waistcoat sales, Marks & Spencer launched National Waistcoat Day on the day of England's quarter final clash with Sweden.
