FASHION: Represent Cleveland in Style by Dru Thompson

Face it. Cleveland is a sports town. Die hard, good, bad or ugly, those born and raised in #the216 hang on season to season, team after team, with new hopes for ‘next year’.

We can breathe now. The Cleveland Cavaliers have made the 2016 Finals, again and the city is all excited with Cavs Fever, again.

But the love doesn’t stop at our zip code. The devotion to our home teams stays with us as we move away. Travel most places and it’s easy to spot a Browns, Indians, Cavs or even Ohio State logo worn along the way.

For those who consider themselves “not all into sports,” the Cavs being in the NBA Finals is one of those times when you may happen to catch a game, cheer just a little or get carried away and pull out your hometown sports gear.

Pause.

Maybe not. The bulkiness and not-too-fashionable looks of most sports attire leaves a lot to be desired, and forces many with the choice to be either fashionable or sports-functional.

Keeping your sense of style while taking one for the team could be slightly challenging, but here’s a few suggestions to keep you walking in both worlds as you find yourself in a watch party, Cavs day at the office, or your local watering hole to catch a game or two.

The first and most important rule in fashion is to have fun and be creative, while still keeping your sense of style. The answers may already be in your closet or a short trip to your friendly neighborhood boutique away.

Here’s a few ideas to try as we “witness” during this series:

Oh, the colors. If the idea of wearing team logos are not your thing, one witty and chic approach is wearing the colors of your favorite team. Pop a burgundy color blazer or cardigan over a pair of great fitting khakis. Boom. Instant fan. This is a pretty good option for those coming-soon “Cavs Days” at work.

Accessorize: If you are not ready to go “ALL IN” with a sports jersey or bulky t shirt, there are a few sports-inspired accessories you can add to your looks. These accessories are great little “hints” of team spirit that can come in handy as a fast, chic alternatives.

 

[Accessories courtesy of: OneStopFanShop & Dru Christine Fabrics & Design]

Jersey Girls: Fashion is all about being creative. Take the plunge and try pairing sports jerseys with everyday items in your closet. These looks can be some game-worthy ensembles that can take them from day to night with ease.

Try your favorite team jersey (okay, Cavs), add a jean jacket and a pair of rolled up cargos. Want a edgier yet look? Try a pencil skirt. Substitute the jean jacket for a blazer and or cardigan. This look goes for the fellas, too.

 

Root for the home team!

But, OK, if you must.

I’m all about a great graphic T-shirt. Especially when they come with local shops here in the 216, complete with homegrown slogans and images only a true Clevelander would love. These looks are a WIN WIN by giving you a chance to support local business AND show some love for your Cleveland Cavaliers. Here are a few great T-shirts to grab when you are feeling just a little Cleveland ISH.

Here are a few of our favorite graphic T-shirts, but check out the websites for locations and more offerings.

 

All (fashionably) in,

Dru

[Dru Thompson is a designer, writer and educator who  owns and operates Dru Christine Fabrics and Design on Waterloo Road. Most days, you will find Thompson bustling in her fashion design studio and boutique, in between playing taxi to son Chase and dog walker to shih-tzu, Oscar. To learn more about Dru, go to druchristine.com or Facebook: Dru Christine Fabrics and Design, Instagram or Twitter @druchristine.]

Cleveland, OH 44114

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