Our Colours: Why Claret and Amber?

There’s no documented reason why Manningham suddenly adopted claret and amber colours in September 1884. However, given the proximity of Belle Vue barracks, it’s almost certain that Manningham copied the claret and amber colours of the local regiment - the Prince of Wales Own (West Yorkshire) Regiment.
Manningham played in claret and amber hoops and white shorts for their entire history. When the decision was taken to adopt the round ball game, the new Bradford City football club kept Manningham’s colours, but opted for stripes. However, they did play at least part of the 1903-04 season in Manningham’s hoops, presumably while awaiting the arrival of the new strip.
City’s distinctive claret and amber stripes are an integral part of the clubs identity. Thanks to the world wide television exposure of the club's recent Premiership sojourn, the old colours are instantly recognisable to millions of football fans - a far cry from the utilitarian red and white or blue and white combinations used by so many clubs.