The Guide to Kicking Off Game Day in Style
Football season is right around the corner! That means it is almost time for the early morning tailgates, pre-game pep rallies, and most significantly the SEC heat (and no, I’m not talking about the conference rivalries). I have been to plenty of Auburn football games. But coming from the Northeast, it took some time to get used to 95-degree temperatures, even in the shady spots of the student section. My game day wardrobe quickly shifted from cozy layers to lightweight linens. That said, I’ve curated some go-to style tips for beating the southern heat while showing your game day spirit through effortlessly chic outfits.
Here is my game day styling playbook:
I. Find the Perfect Fit
Starting the search for a game day wardrobe can be overwhelming. In a fast-fashion world driven by micro-trends, it’s tempting to order an entire new wardrobe every football season. However, investing in closet staples that can be reinvented Saturday after Saturday is a much better route.
For example, the brand Cartolina recently released a timeless game day collection for universities that takes football fashion to the next level. Filled with classic silhouettes in solids shades, their pieces make accessorizing effortless. (I just bought the Hadley Romper, which comes in the perfect Auburn orange!)
Another approach that I love is renting through Instagram closet accounts. Roommates, friends, and sorority sisters combine their closets to rent out outfits for all kinds of events, with game days drawing massive interest. It is sustainable, budget-friendly, and lets you feel like you have a new wardrobe piece for a fraction of the price.
II. Stay Away from the Heavy Fabrics
Being from the Northeast, my instinct is always to grab a pair of jeans for a football game. But in September down South, denim is the perfect way to overheat (my only exception is the Iron Bowl in late November). Flowy sundresses and skirts are much more comfortable options. Look for breathable, natural fabrics like cotton and linen instead.
One of my absolute favorites for lightweight pieces is Hill House. Their famous “Nap Dresses” are 100% cotton, making even their maxi lengths a great choice for hot game days. The elastic smocked upper body adds to the comfort and ease of planning a game day outfit... no battling zippers, buttons, or complicated undergarments!
III. Find “The Boots Made for Walkin”
I will be the first to admit that as a northeastern girl, it did not take me long to fall in love with cowboy boots for game day. And if we’re talking SEC game day, boots are practically a requirement… which is why I splurged on a pair as soon as I decided on going to Auburn.
If boots aren’t your speed, fashion sneakers or fun sandals are great alternatives. They are both easy, classic ways to elevate your outfit using shoes already in your closet.
So, what’s my secret to staying comfortable in cowboy boots from the start of the tailgates through the end of the fourth quarter? A square toe, a wedge instead of a heel, and a good pair of socks. It does wonders when you’re walking miles in the heat. (Though you’d be surprised how many people end up taking off their shoes in the student section once everyone is standing on the bleachers!)
IV. Elevate the Infamous “Clear Bag”
People say there are no rules in fashion. They’re wrong. SEC stadium clear bag policies are the exception. While I’m not usually a fan of clear bags and sometimes opt for a smaller purse that meets the stadium dimensions instead, you can easily make a transparent bag look more fashionable, and even a statement piece to your outfit.
Beaded straps are a fantastic alternative for the standard plastic handle of the clear bag and have become huge across the SEC. They hook right on and come in solid colors, patterns, university slogans, or even custom monograms. Tying or weaving a coordinating silk scarf around the handle or adding bag charms gives your clear bag a completely new appearance, including the perfect pop of color.
V. Add Your Own, Unique Spirit
The final piece of advice I have for your game day wardrobe is to put your personal style on display. Accessorizing is the best way to do this. Due to the heat, stick to lightweight jewelry like delicate stacked necklaces or layered bracelets. Adding other touches like printed scarves around belt loops or ribbons on cowboy boots is another one of my favorites. And when humidity threatens your hair, claw clips and ribbons are perfect for keeping your hair up in a stylish way.
Customizing your pieces makes your look feel truly yours. I knew if I was ever going to wear denim to a game, it had to be special. That’s why I had a pair embroidered with blue and orange Auburn details, including tiny paw prints on the back pockets!
Finally, my favorite part of accessorizing for game days in the SEC is all the pins, stickers, and buttons I’ve collected since coming to Auburn. I have an entire makeup bag full of them, so I always have one perfectly matching my game day outfit. Sharing buttons with siblings, friends visiting from home, and even friends from Auburn feels like its own little love language. Whether it says, “War Eagle!” or features your organization, they are the perfect finishing touch to make your game day outfit complete.
At the end of the day, SEC game days are about showing spirit for your school while feeling confident in what you’re wearing. Navigating the early-season heat may take a little extra planning, but it is all a part of the college football experience. With the right lightweight pieces and accessories, creating a game day outfit becomes second nature. With all that said, it’s time to break out the boots and get ready for kickoff! War Eagle!
