Football Games in the South: What to Wear

(From left) Nikki Denkler and Chloe Jones, students at the University of Texas, hang out at a tailgate before a Longhorn football game. 

In the South, football games are king. They involve not just football, but tailgating, dressing up and having fun with friends. Whether you’re a guy or girl, it’s a great opportunity to show off your cute school-color-themed outfit. Now that football season is upon us, it’s time to step up your wardrobe. Don’t get left out of game day pictures because of your inappropriate outfit. I’m here to help!

(From left) Alex Alexander, James Long and Enrique Walsh watch the Rice football team play on a hot fall morning in Houston. 

If you want to go for the fancy look, a great option for girls is a cute summer dress. It will keep you cool when hour two of the game starts and the sun starts beating down on the stadium. Gladiator sandals are fun, and cowboy boots are always a great Southern staple to pair with dresses or skirts.

For guys, a nicer look could involve a polo in school colors, or embroidered with the school mascot/name. Khaki shorts and tennis shoes are always a comfy option. Jeans or khaki pants and boots really make a game day outfit look sharp.

(From left) Lily Yeager, Ellie Smith, Laura Ragsdale and Mackenzie Pierce, Pi Phis at Texas Tech, pose for pictures before going to cheer on the Red Raiders at a football game. 

I like to go more casual to football games, and at some schools, there’s a lot less pressure on the dress code. My go-to outfit choice is jean shorts (I live in them) and a Rice t-shirt, paired with my favorite pair of navy Converse and a necklace that ties it all together (either navy/white necklace, or my Rice necklace that has an owl charm - go Owls!).

The most important things to remember for game day are accessories. Sunglasses, sunscreen, your student ID and cash are a must. You never know what will happen in the multiple hours during which a game takes place, so come prepared. Make water your favorite accessory. Overall, have fun, be safe, look cute, and cheer as loud as you can for your team!

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