Here are a few ideas on how you can dress to show support for your favorite college team during March Madness.
For the "professional" fan:
When you want to show your team love at work, it's best to keep your spirit items limited to business or business casual attire. Many schools now sell button down shirts with the school logo or monogram on them. In addition, silk ties for men and scarves for women are common items to find for the fan who wants to support a school in a professional way. College bookstores often sell fine jewelry for men and women who wish to support the school in an understated way.Lapel pins or tie clips branded for a specific school also are simple ways to add some school spirit to an otherwise professional ensemble. For people in a more business casual environment, golf shirts, sweaters and vests in school colors and embroidered with the school logo are good options. If you wish to carry a sign of your school spirit with you, new computer cases and purses offer a way to cheer your team to victory even during the daily commute.
For the "casual" fan:
T-shirts and sweatshirts emblazoned with your favorite school's name and/or mascot are the old stand-by. However, new styles and softer fabrics make these items a must-have for any fan that has the ability to pair a t-shirt or sweatshirt with a pair of jeans or khakis. Hats are another oldie but goodie. Baseball caps, floppy hats, and knit outdoor hats are the most popular these days and give you quite a bit of flexibility in the look you want to achieve. Scarves, gloves, bags and umbrellas are just a few of the outerwear/gear options you have if you want to carry your love for your team beyond your normal workday clothing. These items can be used separately, or you can wear them all at the same time to create an ensemble that allows you to show your school spirit. Socks, shoe laces, and hair ribbons are three additional ways you can take your support for the team on the road.
For the flashy fanatic:
If you do not mind being a bit outrageous, there are many options available to you for showing your love of your school throughout March Madness time. In addition to combining any and all of the options listed for the professional and casual fans, flashy fanatics have ways to add spirit to any day during March. Face and body paint allow you literally to wear your school's colors close to your heart. Many schools now sell temporary tattoos of the mascot or emblem so that you can show off your support on a cheek or bicep. Mardi Gras style beads have become very popular in recent years for many schools looking for ways to let fans visibly show support for the team. University bookstores also sell team pajamas and underwear that will allow you to support your team even beyond what typically is worn out with friends.
Any type of fan with a pet will want to be sure the pet also is ready for March Madness time. Dog and cat collars, leashes, and sweaters give your pet the ability to pull for the team of your choice, making them a special part of any ensemble you may put together.
However you choose to support your team during March Madness, do not be afraid to be a little bold. The wearing of team apparel at this time can help you make alliances with like-minded fans, as well as build up friendly competition with friends and colleagues who may cheer for other teams. Best of all, be sure to enjoy the spring show that we call March Madness.
