Exuding group spirit in the Southern states is, quite frankly, quite ostentatious. Down here, the arrival of autumn signals the onset of the football calendar, igniting a fervent celebration each Saturday, featuring some of the nation’s finest tailgate parties and fans who turn up resplendent in their team’s hues. Yet, in the South, this goes beyond just donning a jersey. On game day, attire becomes a spectacle in itself, no matter if you’re cheering on your team at the Quad, the Grove, the Hedges, or the hallowed Death Valley.
Whether you’re embarking on your next football season or preparing for your maiden Southern football game, here’s what you need to know about the local game day style, complete with pointers, cautions, and unspoken conventions.
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From timeless, no-frills jerseys to sundresses, sparkling jewels, cowboy boots, blazers, and bow ties, the attire ranges widely. School colors are always revered, often in a manner that outsiders might find excessively flamboyant for a football match. Nevertheless, to us, it’s never merely about the game.
This long-standing tradition has been somewhat relaxed by the majority, yet it remains an exception during football season. With several Southern teams adopting white as part of their school colors, it’s advisable to wear white clothing rather than the opposing team’s colors, particularly if you’re backing a school with hard-to-come-by colors, like the University of Tennessee’s orange.
It’s not entirely uncommon—especially on state rivalry weekends or at secluded tailgates held at someone’s residence—for fans of both teams to be invited to the same tailgate. That’s when our fervent Southern etiquette training comes into play. Both factions can coexist harmoniously, even while wearing their distinct colors, as long as no one arrives in an outrageously themed outfit to provoke a reaction.
In certain schools, tailgating has transformed into a full-fledged social event, with certain tailgates earning a reputation for their spiritedness or opulence (complete with chandeliers, tablecloths, televisions, and more). Sometimes, an invitation to a sought-after tailgate signifies that everyone will be dressed to impress, including bow ties. Remember, while you might wish to emulate this, a jersey is always in good standing.
Southern Living, September 1968
Football fever in the South begins in August, amidst the scorching heat and humidity, and persists through September, October, and occasionally extends into November. To endure a full day of tailgating and stadium seating, preparation is key. Clothing that conceals sweat is paramount, and you’ll also need to consider sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and other heat-beating essentials.
While you’ll undoubtedly be as toasty as everyone else, they’ll still show up in full force and relish every moment of the day.
