For the Illini, simply conceptualizing a retro leather helmet appearance wasn’t enough; they sought tangible execution. This pursuit led them to their vendors and ultimately to Armando Villarreal, owner of a Nebraska-based airbrushing company. As one of only two specialists nationwide in airbrushing football helmets, Villarreal was tasked with hand-painting each helmet, bringing the vision of Retro Uniforms to life.
The meticulous process begins with sanding each helmet before applying a sealer. Villarreal then introduces a base coat, followed by drying and texturing to mimic aged leather. This detailed preparation is crucial for achieving the authentic look of retro uniforms.
Next, a dark brown coat is sprayed, and a stencil is employed to create a genuine leather-like exterior. After drying, Villarreal masterfully airbrushes straps, stitching, and even holes, each element meticulously designed to mirror the helmets worn by Grange and the Illini in 1924. This dedication ensures the retro uniforms are historically accurate and visually impactful.
To finalize the helmets, a clear coat is applied, resulting in a matte finish that enhances the vintage feel. Each helmet, distinct in its leather-brown shade – a deliberate nuance to reflect the 1920s leather tones, subtly different from the jersey’s tan – demands one to two hours of Villarreal’s expert handwork. Josh Rosch understood this level of detail was essential to realize the team’s desired retro uniforms aesthetic.
“100 years ago, jerseys had similar designs, so a leather helmet was key to differentiate our overall aesthetic,” Rosch explained. “Hand-painting was the only way to achieve the sun pattern formed by the helmet straps. We aimed to mirror every leather piece on the helmet’s shell, creating an authentic retro uniforms appearance.” He praised Villarreal’s exceptional work and partnership in the retro uniforms project.
The entire uniform design journey began nearly two years prior. Following six to eight months of concept development and initial designs, the Illini collaborated extensively with Nike to finalize the look of the retro uniforms. Conference approval then set the project in motion.
Athletic Director Josh Whitman’s involvement was pivotal. His dual perspective as an administrator and football program alumnus significantly influenced the retro uniforms’ design process.
“This project held extra personal significance for him,” Rosch noted. “We refined numerous details to align with his vision and ensure a cohesive representation of our history through these retro uniforms.”
