Game Day Outfits for Football Season
Cheer on your team in style. Game day outfit ideas for college and NFL games, tailgates and watch parties, with layering tips for every kind of fall weather.
From college Saturdays to NFL Sundays, football season is one of the great American traditions. Whether you are at the stadium, tailgating in the parking lot or hosting a watch party, the right outfit shows team spirit and keeps you comfortable from kickoff to the final whistle.
Start with team colors
You do not need a full uniform. Choose one or two pieces in your team's colors and keep the rest neutral.
- A team jersey or T-shirt with jeans.
- A sweater, scarf or hat in team colors.
- Neutral clothes with a team-colored bag or sneakers.
Check stadium bag rules. Many stadiums only allow clear bags of a limited size. Look up the policy before you go.
Dress for the weather
Football season starts in late summer heat and ends in winter cold.
Early season (August and September)
Light, breathable layers: a team tee, denim shorts or a skirt, sneakers, a cap and sunglasses. Bring sunscreen for day games.
Mid-season (October)
The classic fall look: a team long-sleeve top or sweater, jeans, a flannel shirt or vest, and ankle boots or sneakers.
Late season (November and beyond)
Real layers for cold stadiums: thermal base layers, a hoodie or fleece, a puffer jacket, a beanie, gloves and a blanket. Waterproof boots are a smart choice for snowy or wet games.
Outfit ideas for women
- College game day: a team-color sundress or skirt with cowboy boots or sneakers, a classic in the South.
- Casual fan: a fitted team tee, high-waisted jeans, a flannel tied at the waist and white sneakers.
- Cold weather: leggings or jeans, a cozy team sweatshirt, a puffer vest, a beanie with a pom and warm boots.
Outfit ideas for men
- Classic fan: a team jersey over a long-sleeve tee, jeans and sneakers.
- Tailgate host: a team quarter-zip, chinos or jeans, and comfortable boots.
- Cold weather: thermal layers, a team hoodie, a down jacket, a beanie and insulated boots.
Tailgating essentials
Tailgates mean hours outdoors on your feet.
- Wear shoes that can handle grass, gravel and spills.
- Bring a layer for when the sun goes down.
- Choose darker jeans that hide barbecue sauce stains.
Hosting a watch party
At home, you can be comfortable and still look put together: a team tee or sweatshirt with joggers or jeans, and clean sneakers or slippers.
The takeaway
Show your team spirit with one or two pieces in team colors, layer for the time of year, and choose shoes made for a long day. Check the stadium bag rules, plan for the weather, and enjoy the game.
