College Game Day Outfit Ideas: From Tailgate to Stadium

Written by: Tess Helbig

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Time to read 4 min

Big Ten football teams have raised the stakes this season so why not level up your game day outfit too! Don't settle for the same tired and reworn t-shirt, at Fan Girl we believe that one of the best ways to enjoy a game is when your outfit showcases your confidence, individuality and style. Don't stress about finding an outfit can that can withstand the pre-game tailgate and the final whistle at the stadium, we've got game day outfit ideas that mean you don't have to compromise on style or comfort. With a couple of our favorite in-season styles and some tips on how to style them, you’ll look and feel like an MVP from tailgate to touchdown! ✨🏈

Game Day Outfits Ideas: Tailgate to Stadium

Short & Sweet Victory

Looking to stay on trend and comfortable for game day? Statement shorts are a touchdown! From boxer shorts, to bloomers, and athletic shorts, they provide a laid-back and stylish alternative to jeans or a skirt when cheering on your team. Their versatility means you can wear them with cropped or oversized game day apparel and show off your team spirit in style!


Styling Tips

  • Boots add a little structure and edge to the causal feel of that shorts bring. Whether you opt for a cowboy or biker boot, a durable shoe will help you get from the tailgate to the stadium with stylish twist, so you can stand out from the crowd, or above it.
  • A Statement Purse adds a curated and fashionable twist to a more causal game day look. Mixing textures, fabrics, and subtle patterns will create visual depth in your look.
game day outfit ideas

Styles Pictured:

  • Michigan State Embroidered Supersoft Crew
  • Buckeyes Vintage Oversized Crew

Denim for the Win

When paired with the right accessories, denim won't look as simple as it sounds. Jeans provide a ton of versatility and allow you to let your creativity shine. You can experiment with different washes and fits, from dark wash barrel jeans to mid-rise and light-washed, denim is a definite win and one you already have in your wardrobe!


Styling Tips

  • A Colorful Shoe is an easy way to make a bold statement without much effort. Wearing your teams colors on your feet can tie in the colors in a crewneck or tee, adding visual interest and cohesion to simplest outfit, like one styled around jeans.
  • A Baseball Hat in your team's colors or with their logo shows exactly who you're cheering for while creating cohesion to your casual look. For a little nostalgia, try a vintage hat!

game day outfit ideas

Styles Pictured:

  • Mizzou Tigers Vintage Oversized Crew
  • Iowa Football Throwback Crew

On the Move

For a game day full of pre- and post-game fun, breathable and sporty pieces will keep you comfy all day long and prepped to be on the move. Biker shorts and jumpers are super buildable pieces that let you layer up or down, making them perfect for changing game day environments.  


Styling Tips

  • Sneakers are a simple and comfy choice. For cohesion, sneakers pull your athletic inspired look together. Sneakers will keep you comfortable and ready for any and all game-day festivities. Try classic white sneakers for a timeless look, or opt for colorful kicks.
  • Accessories give you the chance to showcase a little personality and are the best way to really pull a look together, adding that cherry on top. By adding statement earrings, a necklace or two, stackable bracelets, a baseball hat or your favorite pair of sunglasses, you add a little extra glamour and elevation to your athletic inspired look.
game day outfit ideas

Styles Pictured:

  • Row the Boat Minnesota Vintage Crew
  • Northwestern Vintage Oversized Crew

Ready, Set, Twirl

On game day, the key is to wear something you can move and keep things comfy, and a skirt makes for the perfect combo of the two. Skirts in your team colors or in a fun pattern bring a unique, feminine aesthetic that stands out among typical game day outfits. For a day spent inside and outside, skirts make it easy to layer with and you'll be ready for both.


Styling Tips

  • A Small Purse is the perfect blend of practicality and style. Keeping all your game day essentials close, without weighing you down. Most stadiums have bag size restrictions, and a small purse is easy to bring along without and worry or hassle.
  • Bows are having a major moment right now. With a skirt, they amp up a playful style while subtly showing team spirit. Whether they're styled in your hair, attached to a bag, or boots, bows in your team’s colors are a chic and understated nod to your school pride.
game day outfit ideas

Styles Pictured:

  • Hoosiers Band Tee
  • NDSU Vintage Oversized Crew

No matter what team your cheering for, you should do it style! ✨ Whether you opt for a causal look with jeans and baseball hat or a skirt and cowboy boots, there’s no shortage of ways to show off your style while cheering on your team. Don't overthink how to combine your love for fashion and your love for college team! For a day filled with spontaneity, comfort is key, but a little flair never hurt anyone—whether it’s a statement purse or a colorful pair of sneakers. Above all, wearing your game day outfits with confidence is the best look! So, win or lose, let your love for the team shine through in every outfit you wear. 💜

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