Super Bowl outfits are a very real thing, and unless you already own tons of team gear, coming up with ideas can feel somewhat tricky. Thankfully, there are plenty of options when it comes to your Super Bowl look. If your team isn't playing, you could choose a side and plan around their color palette (or, if you're bitter, stay neutral). Non-NFL fans — aka those just coming for the company, snacks, and halftime show — have it the easy; with no strings attached (save for a friendly wager or two), you can wear pretty much anything and everything as your Super Bowl party outfit — loungewear, denim, funky prints, or a dress. It's all fair game.
Still, if you want tips on how to score a touchdown in a Super Bowl outfit, we've got you covered. Below, fashion experts weigh in with their secrets to styling a winning ensemble for the big game.
Comfort Is Key
Celebrity stylist Mickey Freeman tells InStyle that when picking out your Super Bowl outfit, there are two key pillars to keep top of mind: comfort and individuality. To check off the cozy box, Freeman suggests classic pieces with an interesting twist. Think bomber or varsity jackets with vintage team T-shirts, a loose pair of cargo pants, and a pair of sneakers.
Try Denim on Denim
Canadian tuxedo, anyone? Freeman suggests a denim long-sleeve button-up shirt or jacket paired with a jean bottom. You can then spice up the look with cowboy boots or even a chunky-soled option.
Stick to a Color Scheme
Football teams come with a set color scheme, so use that to your advantage when putting together your Super Bowl outfit. While you can nail the combo by rocking different pieces, Freeman envisions a head-to-toe printed look "comprised of sumptuous-looking silks and synthetic fabrics that flow across the body creating a relaxed silhouette."
Think Athleisure
NY-based fashion stylist Melina Kemph describes herself as "all things sports-obsessed" and claims the Super Bowl is essentially her Golden Globes. "I'm watching the game as closely as the commercials and halftime performance(s)," she says, explaining that, because of this, her outfit must be as comfortable as it is colorful, with sneakers being her starting point.
Wear What's In Your Wardrobe
Consider this a friendly PSA from celebrity stylist Madison Guest: You don't need to buy a brand-new outfit for your Super Bowl party, especially if you don't actually care about the sport. "I usually choose to root for whatever team goes better with my existing wardrobe," Guest tells InStyle. Guest also admits she's a sucker for a monochromatic sweatsuit "a la Hailey Bieber."
Go With a Graphic Tee
Celebrity stylist Soneca Guadaral considers herself a "traditionalist" when it comes to her Super Bowl outfit. "I like to dress up like I am attending an actual football game," she says. "It's all about showing off my sense of style but also letting everyone know I am a football fan!" Her go-to fit? A graphic tee that either represents one of the competing teams, her favorite team regardless of who's playing, or anything Super Bowl-related, like a T-shirt that says something like "Game On!"
Stay Comfy in a Sweater Dress
According to Maddison Chirumbolo, Express's women's styling coordinator, for anyone who wants to feel comfortable and look stylish, a sweater dress will be your MVP. Chirumbolo suggests adding a wool-blend coat, knee-high boots, and super soft accessories to elevate the look. Of course, she adds, you'll want to swap in your team's beanie and gloves "for a fun fit."
Sport Some DIY
If nothing in your closet is standing out as-is, Emma Trask, who has worked with Carrie Underwood and is the owner of The Chrysalis Lab, suggests exploring your artistic side by upcycling a vintage tee or jersey. "I typically add interesting trim and rhinestone bling detailing to enhance the graphics, with fringe and cutouts completely transforming the tee," she tells InStyle.
You can also crop an oversized jersey or tee, Trask adds, pairing it with baggy jeans or pants and accessories that match the team colors.