Having been here in Oxford for almost 20 years, I still know this basic fact about fashion in this town: Whatever is in the windows on the Square, wear it.
In all seriousness, Oxford has long been considered the fashion capital of the South, and for good reason.
If you read my article last week, Shopping on the Square: Fashion, then you already got a glimpse into what makes the Square fashion go 'round. But we, here are POM, are going to dive a little deeper.
For the same reason we have more of one color in our closet than any other, how we feel “prettier” with makeup on, or how wearing that amazing pair of shoes puts a pep in your step - how you dress while in Oxford makes you feel.....more fashionable. This might sound dramatic, but it's true.
Insert - the "fashion show" in the Grove. Not an organized fashion show, but a platform to display your best look for all to see. First things first: Wear the proper color as set by Ole Miss Athletics. Whether going to the game, or just hanging in the tent, wear the right color to cheer on the Rebs!
Next, you won’t see many women in official Ole Miss garb. You’ll see them as dressy casual, dresses or smart Sunday best. But always, with the flare for fashion forward! Heels are the norm, even in the soft ground post rain. Personally, I like wedges or flats on game day, and they can still be very stylish!
Parents: prepare your female students to wear something appropriate. We can’t emphasize this enough. First, remember there are two home games before rush. Upperclass sorority girls are taking note. If a dress/romper is short enough to see a booty cheek or worse: it's a NO GO. And yes, this really happens. (As a fellow mom, I can’t help but think: “Would your mother be proud of you wearing this?” Head shake.)
Men's attire could be described as Sunday casual meets GQ. Freshmen men that plan to pledge a fraternity typically wear coat and tie.
It should go without being said, but be prepared for weather! The fall heat, creates a great dust haze in the Grove. The perfect crisp fall afternoon tailgate can certainly turn into a chilly 6pm kickoff. Rain does not hold off tailgating. (PS. You’ll even find Hunter makes rainboot heels. Yep, you read that right!)
If you really want to accent your perfect outfit, top it off with a blowout, spray tan, or mani/pedi on Friday when you arrive in Oxford at Suthern Oasis or The Studio.
Lastly, POM is taking it a step further. We will be offering an exclusive first look at Grove and Rush fashions, LIVE on our Facebook page and website during the week of August 28-31. You will NOT want to miss this first glance at the latest frocks for the Grove. You will even have the opportunity to purchase outfits in advance and pickup when you arrive in Oxford! Stay tuned!
Want to read more about the Oxford fashion scene? Check our Vogue, Southern Living, and a plethora of articles on Ole Miss Alum, Kelly Wynne, who makes chic stadium approved bags.
Get ready parents, the 2018 Football Fashion scene. Its officially begun!