What to Wear to a Football Game: How to Look Elegant While You Cheer (or Pretend You're Watching)

Football season is here, and going to a game, whether live or on TV, is one of those occasions when you could find yourself wondering, "What in the world should I wear?!?" Warmth, comfort, and a dash of personality are all important. It's not a bad idea to give your game day attire some thought. You want to put on something that is both useful and fashionable.

GAMEDAY OUTFIT IDEAS FOR THE LADIES

Let’s start with the ladies. For the big game, you need an outfit that’s easy to move in (too-tight dresses are a no-go), classy and bursting with school spirit. Before we dive into it, let’s go over a few major don’ts of the game day fashion

• Leave pricey jewellery at home

• Wear comfortable shoes-

• Choose your handbag wisely

With that out of the way, here are a few ideas to give you some game day fashion inspo:

• PREPPY CHIC - You really can’t go wrong with prep-inspired clothing at a football game. For a preppy-chic look, consider wearing a striped t-shirt dress in your school’s colours. Pair it with classic sneakers for a cute look that is perfect for playing tailgate games or cheering from the stands. 

• CASUAL LOOK - Prefer a casual outfit that doesn’t go overboard with game-day spirit? Wear an off-the-shoulder top in your team’s colours with a cute pair of women's khaki shorts and sandals. On top of being super versatile, this look is guaranteed to beat the brutal heat of those first few games of the season. 

• WHAM, GLAM, THANK YOU, MA’AM - Want to look glamorous for the big game? Consider wearing a game day dress in your home team’s colours for a stylish yet spirited look. Opt for a classy pair of heels and be sure to keep a more practical pair of shoes in your purse

• KEEP IT CUTE - Sometimes, all a girl really wants in a game day outfit is something cute and classic. We’re talking about the classic game day outfit: A collegiate t-shirt, a cute pair of denim shorts and some fashionable sneakers. Throw on a baseball cap, some football eye black stickers and maybe some glitter, and there you have it—a no-fuss outfit that you can play up in a million different ways.

• JERSEY GIRL - The first way to wear a football jersey is to treat it like a dress (just make sure that it’s long enough for this) and pair it with a cute pair of white Vans (cowgirl boots work well, too). Wear some spandex shorts underneath so you can run around, play tailgate games, do a keg stand—you know, the usual tailgate activities.

GAMEDAY OUTFIT IDEAS FOR THE GUYS

Now, it’s time for the guys. You would think that guys would have an easier time dressing for a football game. Just wear your best collegiate tailgate apparel and call it good, right? 

Well, it’s not quite that simple. In fact, there are a few quick rules we need to go over:

• Skip the body paint

• Read the Room

• Say no to beer hats

• Don’t wear shirts that show sweat stains. Pit stains just aren’t a good look on anyone.

• Check the forecast before you leave for the stadium

 Okay, let’s move on to some game day outfits for men

• BEAT THE HEAT IN CLASSIC STYLE - a lot of guys just want to look good for the big game without sacrificing their comfort or style. If this sounds like you, keep it simple yet classic by wearing blue jeans and a performance polo shirt in your team colours. Complete the look with a fresh pair of kicks and make sure to wear moisture-wicking socks.

• MATURE WITH A SIDE OF TEAM SPIRIT- For the guy who wants to look mature and professional without appearing too stuffy, this one’s for you: Wear a nice pair of trim-fit chinos with a classic Oxford shirt in your team colours. Finish the look with comfortable, white sneakers.

• PREP-INSPIRED FOR FALL - As we mentioned earlier, preppy clothing fits right in at any sporting event. Why not ramp up the prep-inspired look with a button-down shirt underneath a collegiate quarter-zip pullover and chino pants? This preppy men’s outfit is perfect for chilly days in the fall and is a classic look you can wear anywhere.

• COMFORTABLE, BUT YOU STILL WANT TO LOOK GOOD - For a comfortable yet pulled together game day look, opt for a pair of dark brown chinos (for additional style points, cuff ’em like they do here) and a plaid shirt in your team’s colours. Wear a sweater vest over it and a beanie emblazoned with your team’s logo

Now, go forth and rock your fall Saturdays in true football style. See you in the stands and watch parties!