A Gentleman, Refined: Style on and off the Field

As faithful Culprit Magazine readers are aware the September issue contains a very good article entitled “The Commandments of Tailgating,” which details how to throw a great tailgate party. This month’s style column takes a cue from author Henry LaRosa, and instructs you on looking good while at the big game.

Labor Day has come and gone and that can only mean one thing: football returns. This is the peak of the year for sports. Baseball is gearing up for the playoff push while college and pro football are just beginning. But would the big game really be that big without an epic party beforehand? Let’s be honest, the best part about a sporting event is the tailgating. Here is what you need to know to look good from the pre-game show until the post-game locker room interview.

Color is Primary

The best way to show team pride is to wear your team’s colors. The majority accomplishes this by wearing their team’s jersey, hat or t-shirt. It’s tried but it’s also tired, it’s true but it’s also trite. You are a discerning individual as evidenced by the fact that you are reading “Culprit Magazine.” You owe it to yourself to show a little more effort come game time. We are not that far removed from a time when coaches wore suits on the sidelines and fans wore bow ties in the bleachers. Today it is easy to find bow ties in the color schemes of most school and professional teams. If you can’t find your alma maters colors at the campus bookstore, check the web. A site like www.southernproper.com has a large selection of ties, and can even custom make one for you.

If you are not willing to go the tie route, you can still do better than jeans and a t-shirt.  Step it up with a pair of chinos and a rugby shirt in a team color. This look is fashionable yet comfortable enough to allow you to take part in all the epic tailgating shenanigans. Fall is the perfect time to rock that team inspired sweater, and if you do it right, Mr. Rogers will have nothing on you.

Style is Elemental

You can have all the style in the world but it won’t do you any good if your super sweet sweater is covered up by a poncho (don’t even think about a trash bag with neck and arm holes cut out) or a ski jacket. If there is a chance of rain, take an umbrella. Yes, you will be the only guy with an umbrella, but that won’t seem so bad when that female fan you have been trying to work up the nerve to talk to, seeks you out to be her shelter from the storm. Cold temperatures and wind are also elements that you will want to be prepared for, and the best way to handle them is a heavy coat. Pea coats are a stylish yet casual answer to this problem. Traditionally they are navy but you can get them in many other colors such as khaki, charcoal and black. Wrap a team colored scarf around your neck for the appropriate dash of team spirit and enjoy the tailgating and the game in comfortably warm style.

Remember, if you have specific style questions post them below.

Michael R. Simons