How to be sporty & stylish

Sports events like football matches can be really tricky to dress for, especially if you’re normally the kind of girl who wears feminine dresses and shies away from sports gear like me. So, whether you’re heading out to the watch your favourite team play, or even just to watch the match in your local, here are some essentials to get you through your next game.

Before you go

Since you’re possibly going to be out in the harsh sun all day, make sure you’ve nailed your make up look in advance. It should be natural, cake-free and long-wearing to get you through the day (and possibly to the pub afterwards). Don’t forget your SPF, too as even winter’s rays can be harmful on delicate skin. Finally, brush up on your knowledge of all things football related before you head off with the help of a decent football betting site. That way, you’ll be well prepared for all those pre and post-match discussions.

Now for the good stuff: your outfit! Here are some items to consider.

Shades

Let’s face it, a good pair of shades can make or break an outfit. Whether you’re going round, oversized or cat’s eye, the shades you choose give that essential nonchalant look that’s ideal for the playing field. On a practical level, shades help you focus your eyes on the pitch, as well as hiding any dark shadows from the night before. They give you that “off-duty model” look that might just get you mistaken for a footballer’s wife.

A wide brimmed hat

It seems everyone is doing the wide brimmed floppy hat look these days, and there’s no better place to try it out than the sports field. Beyoncé is a big fan and has been spotted at recent Knicks games in her hat. If you’re not one for the sporty look, this is definitely the hat for you. It’s perfect for a “done up” look that’s still relatively casual, and works well with jeans and blouses as well as shearling jackets.

A baseball cap

If, on the other hand, you’re planning on embracing the sporty-chic look, then one way to nail it is the humble baseball cap. You can even steal your boyfriend’s if you’re feeling lazy! This is one that’s easy to pair with a crisp tee and some ripped denims.  Pull your hair into a sleek pony, add a touch of sheer lip gloss and you’re good to go.

Bomber jacket

The bomber jacket is one of those sports-luxe items that you’ll always be glad of, never more so than when you are on your way to a football match. Bombers look fab layered over shirts, sweaters or t-shirts and can even be slung casually over the shoulders for that just-strolled-off-the-catwalk look. For added oomph, head to your local vintage shop and pick up a retro sports jacket with contrasting sleeves.

Statement trainers

Now that you’ve channelled your inner tomboy, it’s time to break out the finishing touch to your ensemble: the trainers. Make yours a statement pair that will turn heads by choosing metallic or bright colours that will create a focal point for your outfit. Not a trainer kind of girl? High-top trainer-shoes with wedged heels are the next best thing and will give you a height boost, too.