How to Update Your Courtside Style for March Madness
For many of us at The RealReal, the term “March Madness” has more to do with the month’s insane weather patterns that challenge our daily outfit selections than college basketball. But for the majority of the sports-minded population, the period between March 12th and April 3rd is known as a weeks-long battle royale for the NCAA title.
“Not only is it an exciting time for sports fans, it’s a great excuse to break out your best athleisure,” says Men’s Merchandise Manager Mandy Rivas. Sure, some of us may have more experience filling out brackets of Bachelor contestants than college basketball teams, but we can still offer advice on the elements of a great courtside look. To that end, we’re rounding up the best of our game-time wardrobe staples to upgrade your look for March Madness. And as for our forecast? “I’d pick Texas A&M to win it all,” says Rivas. “Their Adidas-designed uniforms are some of the best I’ve seen — burgundy is such a huge trend right now!”
The Hat
A Bathing Ape Fitted Cap, $95; Supreme Box Logo Fitted Cap, $110; Rick Owens Drkshdw Leather Cap, $110
The baseball cap is no longer just for comfy dads running out for Sunday donuts. “With the right hat, you can be incognito, even courtside, while still sporting eye-catching prints and patterns,” says Rivas. To blend into the crowd, opt for a luxe but understated leather cap, but if it’s street cred you seek, throw on a standout logo piece by a coveted streetwear brand like A Bathing Ape or Supreme.
The Jacket
Brioni Silk Kyoto Jacket, $7,500; Off-White Letterman Jacket, $995; Givenchy Anorak, $425
While the bomber jacket remains an athleisure mainstay, according to Rivas, the outdoorsy anorak is replacing it as the most popular men’s outerwear piece: “It has more of an urban jungle vibe which is another trend that’s gaining headway. You can wear it with khakis or joggers for a total streetwear look. Both styles are easy to wear and lightweight which is perfect for this transitional season.”
The Bag
Dior Homme Backpack, $695; Louis Vuitton Regatta Josh Backpack, $1,595; Givenchy Rider Backpack, $1,895
We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: the manbag is a modern must-have. No more cramming your wallet, keys and cell phone into restricting jeans pockets. No more running out of battery after playing your 10th round of Candy Crush. No, with your manbag you are always prepared like the boy scout you were raised to be. “Backpacks are easy to carry, number one, especially for the city guy, but now designers are making them luxe so it complements your style better than your old JanSport. They’re made of leather with interesting details and cool colors. The look is less schoolboy, more polished grown man.”
The Sneaker
Gucci Ace Sneakers, $595; Saint Laurent Court Classic Sneakers, $425; Yeezy 350 V2 Boost Sneakers, $995
