Dressing up for sporting events has been a pillar of 21st-century pop culture. Ever since the early 2000s, wives and girlfriends of famous athletes have become prominent figures as fashion inspiration for many women who want to emulate being stylish, comfortable and feminine. WAGS have shown us how to create outfits that are influenced by sports such as football, basketball and even Formula one…however, rugby has managed to linger in the background of
all this craze. Dressing for rugby could not be more relevant with Wales playing at the moment; however, with rainy and cold conditions, this can often leave one stumped with how exactly to dress. These tips and tricks will keep your spirits high all game day in Cardiff. In my recent experiences of watching both the South Africa vs Wales and the Cardiff vs Emirates Lions games, the best way to describe match day dress is unpretentious. There is a low-key atmosphere that can’t be found at other large sporting events, and this is a positive thing.
Keep it casual:
Wearing trousers is the best way to avoid being caught in the unpredictable Welsh weather while in the stands. As most games are outdoors, ensuring that you’re in a pair of baggy jeans allows you to maximise your comfort and warmth. Additionally, wearing a skirt or a pair of shorts when moving from within the stands to the stadium bar or the loo is highly risky both for you and for the attendees who are being scooted past.
Wearing trainers or boots will never mislead you. Trainers are a reliable way for you to match your supporting team’s colours, as there is a good chance you already have them, and they are a safer fashion choice to make. For example, red or green Adidas trainers for Welsh colours or even ankle boots such as Doc Martens are the easiest ways to be prepared for the rain and/or mud.
Furthermore, you cannot go wrong with an oversized hoodie or jumper as an additional layer for games. Hoodies are my preferred layer due to their diverse benefits. Firstly, in the case of high winds or heavy rains, popping your hood on can protect your match day makeup and hair while also adding a cool-girl, effortless feel to your look, and lastly, it keeps your neck warm in the case you do not have a scarf. Opting for a neutral hoodie from Weekday can elevate the whole
look.
Add some form of pizzazz
Pizzazz is a fashion term for glamour or vibrancy, and adding at least one element to your casual outfit can ensure that it easily goes from pedestrian to model off-duty. For example, wearing an oversized hoodie with a fur coat on top is the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to a more masculine silhouette.
If you’d like to add some flair through accessorising, rather, adding a funky bag is the way to go. Either go for a bright colour that complements your outfit and the supporting team. For example, going for a bright red crossbody bag or even attaching bag charms such as the Welsh flag or Y Ddraig Goch is a great way to show team spirit, while maintaining the cool-girl feel.
Be strategic
If you’re looking to dress for both the game and the pub afterwards, wearing a red lip is a great way to feel dressy and feminine while also repping Welsh colours. You can also opt for a red or green thermal headband from Uniqlo or a knitted balaclava from brands on ASOS. This way, you can smoothly transition from the game to the pub, while avoiding hat hair. Rugby match days are unique as they are ultimately about dressing sensibly without losing one’s personal style. By sticking to casual staples and planning for the perfect day out, dressing for rugby becomes simple and adaptable. The laid-back atmosphere at these sporting events proves that game-day outfits don’t need to be overcomplicated to work well.
Words by: Phumelela Mazibuko
Image courtesy of Ramsés Cervantes via Unsplash
