10 Tailgate Outfits Perfect for Game Day
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Tailgate season isn’t just about football games and parking lot parties - it’s a whole style playbook. Storytime: I looked around at our tailgate party a few years ago and realized my go-to dress for the season - while cute! - was wildly out of tailgate fashion. I was wearing peach for goodness sake when the team colors were blue and white! Plus, the temps dipped to low 60s during the night game and I was freezing.
Since then I've made a conscious effort to up my gameday outfits, and I'm bringing you along for the ride. Here are a few tailgate outfits perfect for you to replicate for college football, basketball games - wherever your tailgate parties are taking you this season.
10 Tailgate Outfits Perfect for Game Day:
1. A Classic Jean Shorts + Graphic Tee Combo
You can’t go wrong with denim shorts and a vintage-wash graphic tee in your team’s colors. It’s literally a perfect tailgate look - especially in those preseason days! - that screams a laid-back vibe. I love that this look also pairs easily with cowboy boots or classic white sneakers.
2. The Game Day-Ready Dress
Game day dresses in your team or school colors are such an MVP move, especially if they have pockets. Most of these options come in multiple different colors (bonus!), and universally have a flattering fit for every body type. I snagged the denim one this season!
3. Go for the Faux Varsity Look
Nothing says collegiate like adding a little varsity accessory into your tailgate wardrobe. Think stripes paired with solids - all of these options come in multiple colorways too.
4. Crop Top + High-Waisted Jeans
For a sporty, effortless cool vibe, pair a sleeveless top or crop top with high-waisted jeans. Add a baseball cap for sporty sun protection or one of those top-knotted twill headbands everyone seems to have in their accessories drawer these days. This is my go-to game day outfit.
5. Two Piece Sets That Double as Day Wear
When all else fails, a matching two-piece set in solid colors is a great way to instantly elevate game day - it always looks so pulled together! In addition to being comfortable, it's just so dang easy move around in during tailgate parties. I own the first one pictured and love it.
YOU HAVE THE ‘FIT…
Now let’s refresh your tailgate: Here are 7 Must Haves for Tailgating in Football Season
More Tailgate Outfits Perfect for Game Day:
6. The Black Top + Baggy Jeans Play
If school colors aren’t your thing, black tops with straight-leg or baggy jeans is a good start for a tailgate 'fit base. (I'm personally partial to barrel jeans this season!) Layer with a faux leather bomber jacket or a classic jean jacket for cooler weather or a night game.
7. Denim Mom Shorts + Shackets
The shacket came into our lives a few years ago and I think it's here to stay, k? Pair with denim shorts - and maybe some tall boots or running shoes? - and you have what's going to be my #2 look in the parking lots this season.
8. Something Sparkly
I've had this sparkly faux-jersey dress on my wish list for a year now - this might be the time to hit purchase. Maybe it's the infusion of Taylor Swift sparkle on the sidelines, but I'm obsessing over adding a bit of sequins to my tailgate.
9. The Elevated Game Day Look
Don't know about you but sometimes I just want to dress up a little. My aunt always wore these elaborate gold hoops to tailgates and it instantly elevated her look, so I'm taking a page from her book this season by bumping up my wardrobe just a bit for game days.
10. A Solid Stadium Bag
Okay maybe not a full outfit idea per se, but when I find a good bag, I can build from there. Most stadiums require clear bags these days for security, and these are a few on my list this season (bonus for the adjustable shoulder strap because IYKYK). In fact, I've owned option #3 for years and love it.
