Tailgate Chic: One Fashionista’s Tips for Getting Gameday-Ready

By Alcalde Staff in 40 Acres, Special, The Style Section on September 14, 2013 at 7:50 am | 3 Comments

When tailgating in this Texas heat, often the hardest decision you have to make isn’t about the beer or the grill—it’s what you should wear. And with those always-spiffy Ole Miss Rebels rolling into town this weekend, a jersey just might not cut it.

In this week’s episode of The Football Show, co-hosts Wendy Wheless and Andrew Roush turned (albeit reluctantly in Andrew’s case) to an expert on gameday fashion for advice on how to stay both burnt-orange chic AND cool at this weekend’s UT-Ole Miss matchup. Texas Ex Tessie Watson Crow, BS ’09, Life Member, is the owner of Longhorn Fashions, an Austin boutique and online store dedicated to fashionable burnt-orange clothing and accessories. Founded in 2010, Longhorn Fashions carries more than 20 brands, including the work of many local designers.

“I wanted to make it easier for busy alumni and students to find stylish apparel that can be worn to more than just a game,” Crow says, “and at a price that doesn’t break the bank. I also carry limited quantities of each style so women don’t show up to a tailgate in the same outfit as four other people.”

Below, Crow uses Longhorn Fashions merchandise to show us how to stay stylish (and sweat-free!) during Texas tailgates this season.

Tip #1: Break up the monotony with bold, burnt-orange patterns.

“Don’t be afraid to rock patterned shorts, tops, or dresses on gameday,” Crow says. “They will always help you stand out in a crowd.” Think you need more burnt orange? Crow suggests adding a necklace or a Longhorn face tattoo.

Ivory lace top, $38
Patterned shorts, $25
Burnt-orange rock necklace, $60

Tip #2: Accessorize your burnt-orange with bright turquoise accessories.

“It’s no secret that burnt orange and turquoise go flawlessly together,” Crow says. “And the best part about purchasing turquoise accessories for gameday: you can wear them every day, too.”

Dress with diamond back, $46
Camel belt, $15
Turquoise statement necklace, $12
Turquoise bracelet, $18

Tip #3: Invest in a versatile burnt-orange top that can be worn to both day and night games.

“If you purchase one item this season, make it a versatile blouse that can be worn day or night,” Crow says. “The details on this blouse are so intricate and beautiful that it works for nighttime events.” She suggests pairing it with jeans and sandals for a dressed-down day look.

Gatsby top, $88

Tip #4: Stay cool by opting for a fun pair of shorts and booties.

Switch out your cowboy boots and jeans for a more breathable combo of shorts and booties, Crow suggests. “Add accessories and a sleeveless blouse, and you’re golden,” Crow says. “This outfit looks complete, but is most importantly comfortable and cool.”

Tribal print shorts, $28
Burnt-orange necklace, $25

Tip #5: Stand out from the crowd by choosing pieces with unique accents.

“Open-back dresses and tops are perfect for games because of the extra breeze,” Crow says. “Plus, they are sassy yet classy!” Add a bandeau top underneath for extra support.

Open-back dress with bows, $38
Turquoise necklace, $36
Turquoise bracelet, $18

Tip #6: Stay cool by wearing white on top.

“Pair a flowy, lightweight white top with skinny jeans to sweat-proof your gameday look, ” Crow says. A chunky necklace adds just enough burnt orange without adding an extra layer to the outfit.

Ivory top, $25
Burnt-orange skinny jeans, $48
Statement necklace, $28

Hear more of Crow’s gameday fashion advice on this week’s episode of The Football Show.

Top, from left: Alcalde assistant editor Jordan Schraeder; advocacy editor and The Football Show co-host Andrew Roush; and vice president of marketing and business development and The Football Show co-host Wendy Wheless.

Bottom, Tessie Watson Crow, owner of Longhorn Fashions.

Photos by Anna Donlan.

Tags: Longhorn Fashions, tailgates, Tessie Watson Crow, The Football Show