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Hampton U | Style > Fashion

Tailgate Outfit Inspo: What the Girls Have Been Popping Out In

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Jami Chatorri Student Contributor, Hampton University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Hampton U chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Ladies, it’s finally that time of year for creative expression and living your best lives. HBCU Homecoming season is here, and it’s arguably the most anticipated time of year. From the student fashion show to the one and only Pirate Jam concert, homecoming is a week to remember and celebrate.

And in my opinion, the tailgate is where the girlies come to dress to impress. 

On Saturday, and all pirates, from alumni to current Hampton students, come together to immerse themselves in the culture. That’s my favorite part: being surrounded by so many beautiful Black women and men who are truly in love with themselves and their community.

So get ready for a week of bold, expressive outfits that deserve a perfect ten out of ten rating. And for the girlies who don’tknow what to wear for the tailgate, I’ve got you covered!

Here is a list of tailgate outfit inspo of what the girls have been popping up in at the tailgate:

1.SCHOOL AFFILIATION DIY T-SHIRT DRESSES

Yes, yes, yes! I know you’ve seen it everywhere. These DIY T-shirt dresses are on fire, trending all across social media. They bring out your inner baddie and are so easy to make!

Start with an oversized piece of university merch, then measure and cut it to your liking, tight-fitted or a little loose. Tie the bottom with cloth on each side, or get creative by turning it into a two-piece or spaghetti-strap set. Some girlies even use sweatshirt material for a cozy twist. Whether you rock it solo or twin with your crew, this look is a hit. Tutorials are all over TikTok and Pinterest, so grab scissors, your favorite oversized school merchandise, and get to DIYing!

2.PLEADED OR BUBBLE SKIRTS

With these pieces, you can make your outfit so cutesy and really experiment with your style! Pleated and bubble skirts come in all different colors and sizes, so play around!

You can stick to the “back to school theme,” wearing your university’s football jerseys, t-shirt, varsity jacket, or cardiagan. I’ve also seen girlies throw it together with their school colors and jackets— bomber, jeans, or leather. Don’t forget accessories: hoop earrings, bows, or layered jewelry can pull the whole look together. You literally can’t go wrong with a pleated or bubble skirt.

3.JEAN ROMPERS AND JUMPSUITS

Bring a little country flair to our home by the sea! This set brings grown-woman energy while keeping a playful appeal.

I’ve seen girls wear this outfit with badazzled cowboy hats and big boots. Depending on the weather, choose between short rompers for daytime or long jumpsuits for chilly evenings. Bold makeup also really elevates this look. This ain’t Texas, but you’ll still be that girl in this fit.

4.TIGHT JEANS LITTLE SHIRT COMBO

Last but certainly not least, you can never go wrong with tight jeans and a tiny shirt combo. And if you need a reference, think Love Island’s Olandria vibes: simple, sexy, and effortless.

Style it with a cut and cropped university tee or find whatever suits you. This fit can also be worn with a jacket, either oversized or tight-fitted, or by itself. To accessorize, you can wear it with a body chain, statement necklaces, and any type of dangly earrings. It’s simple but timeless and will never let you down!

No matter how you style your look, confidence is key! Channel your inner baddie and never forget how beautiful you are. Have fun, but most importantly, be safe at the tailgate!

Jami Chatorri

Hampton U '27

Hi! My name is Jamisen Harris. I am a junior journalism student at Hampton University. I plan on pursuing a career in broadcast journalism as a news reporter in my future. In my free time, I love to reading, partake self care and eating a good meal! I am interested in writing stories that educate and bring awareness, but also pop culture and self love. Check out my stories!