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Bailey Massey

What to Wear to Your First NHL Playoff Game

Updated: Jun 5, 2023

Written by: Bailey Massey

Editor: Kylie Augis


It comes as no surprise that a lot of people start to really get into hockey when playoffs roll around. This is true for every other sport, too. Why is this the case? Well, it's probably because of the dramatic increase in action from the regular season. Teams are hungry to win, and that makes for a very entertaining sequence for viewers. Especially when rivals end up playing one another. Whether you’re a die hard fan, or you only start to watch during playoffs, your first time attending a game may very well be during this time of year. For someone who’s unfamiliar with the environment of an arena, it becomes tricky when picking out an outfit. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you out!


HOW TO STYLE A JERSEY


Wearing a jersey, especially an oversized one, can sometimes feel baggy and not put together. Not everyone will own a jersey prior to attending their first NHL Playoffs game, but if you do, you may be struggling with how to make it comfortable and cute. Not to worry, there are truly dozens of ways you can spice up wearing a jersey!













Non-Negotiables:

  • Comfy shoes!

  • Sitting pants (don’t wear pants you’ll feel uncomfortable sitting for extended periods of time in)

  • Layers (underneath or over)

    • Underneath: hoodie, crewneck, or long-sleeved top

    • Over: jacket, shaw, or scarf


Extras:

  • Jewelry that matches your team’s colors or logo

  • A beanie

  • Heeled booties or knee length boots

  • A ball cap

  • A crossbody or purse that matches your team’s colors

  • A scarf that has your team’s colors or logo on it

  • A leather blazer or bomber jacket

  • A hairbow, scrunchie, or claw clip





IF YOU DON’T OWN A JERSEY


Jerseys nowadays are extremely expensive. Chances are, if you’ve successfully scored a playoff ticket, you might not have the extra cash to buy a jersey that could cost up to two hundred dollars. On the other hand, maybe you’re just going to the game for something fun to do. In that case especially, you probably don’t see the need to even buy one. Whatever the reason may be, there are plenty of ways to build a cute outfit with other team merchandise or clothes that are simply the same color as the team’s colors.


Merch Ideas:

  • Crewneck

  • Tee shirt

  • Hoodie

  • Bomber jacket

  • Long-sleeved shirt






Pants:

  • Jeans (any wash works but black might work better with your team’s colors!)

  • Be mindful of rips, too many or rips too big might leave you chilly inside the arena

  • Leather pants

  • Joggers

  • Leggings


Layers:

  • Long-sleeved top underneath a tee shirt

  • Crewneck or long-sleeved top underneath a bomber jacket

  • Leather/jean/bomber jacket over a crewneck or hoodie

  • Tee shirt or long-sleeved top underneath a hoodie

  • Bodysuit or tank top underneath a bomber jacket

  • Flannel over a hoodie/crewneck/tee shirt/long-sleeved shirt






WHAT TO AVOID WEARING


It’s easy to overcomplicate outfits. But, when you’re stuck inside a reasonably chilly arena for a few hours, you want to make sure you get your outfit right to avoid a night full of shivering and regret (probably).

Here’s my list of things to avoid wearing:

  • Just shorts or nike pros/shapewear underneath a jersey

  • Just a tee shirt

  • Just a long-sleeved shirt

  • Super high heels or high heeled booties

  • Heels

  • Sandals or flip flops

  • Sunglasses

  • Uncomfortable or overly tight pants

  • Skirts

  • Just a bodysuit or tank top

  • Slippers


KEEP IN MIND…


Keep in mind that most arenas will not allow you to bring in big bags. Some arenas may prohibit you from bringing in any bags at all, or will require the bag to be clear. Most arenas will not allow you to bring in a blanket, so make sure you come dress prepared! Double check the arena’s rules and regulations on their website

beforehand to avoid any trouble on game-day. If you’re still feeling a little iffy after reading, I highly recommend utilizing Pinterest for outfit inspiration.


I hope this article helps you pick out the perfect outfit for game-day! Use the hashtag #sportsgirlsclub on your game-day post(s) to potentially be featured on our socials. I hope you enjoy your first ever playoff game!


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