The Style Ref's Favorite Things 2016

Every year, Oprah releases her list of favorite things and it essentially serves as the definitive gift guide for holiday shoppers. This inspired me to create my own list of my favorite things, but with an eye for what fashion-forward sports fans would like to give and receive most. I hope this list makes your holiday shopping a little easier, so you have more time to enjoy what really matters. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Lillybee Collegiate Flip Flops

Regular, boring, old flip flops just won't do for the fashionable college football fan on your list! These are durable enough for the tailgate yet polished enough for the victory party. These get extra points for the removable school logo snap that can be interchanged with other snaps also available at Lillybee.

$48 per pair
Available at: Lillybee.com

Hover Helmets

I don't know what kind of witchcraft makes this thing work, but I don't care because I could stare at it all day! This takes the replica football helmet to a whole new level and I'm loving it (except they don't have my USF Bulls yet!). Racking your brain over what to get the sports fan who has everything? THIS.

$99.99
Available at: Amazon.com

Pura Vida Bracelets

The teens and young adults on your holiday list will love a wrist full of Pura Vida bracelets, which come in a variety of styles and colors. I have a few red, white and blue bracelets that do double-duty for Team USA and Fourth of July! This set would be perfect for a Carolina Panthers fan!

Starting at $5 each
Available at: PuraVidaBracelets.com

This Girl Knows Football Shirt

Sure, I'm a little biased because I created it, but this really is the perfect gift for the football fan girl in your life! You can choose from a t-shirt or tank and the material is so amazingly soft. Even though this was only available for a limited time, it only takes one order to bring it back!

Starting at $22
Available at: Teespring.com

Faux Fur Throw Blanket

There are a lot of sports to watch this holiday season, so what's better than being bundled up on the couch with some snacks and beverages? I just got one of these blankets and I live in it while I'm home. It's so soft and luxurious, doesn't shed and comes in a variety of colors. Plus, look at that price!

$29.99
Available at: Amazon.com

Clear Envelope Purse

If you've been to a college or NFL game recently, you've probably experienced the clear bag policy. Avoid having to hide your purse in a bush or make the long trek back to your car! Give your favorite female gameday warrior the gift of stylish functionality this holiday season.

$19.99
Available at: Amazon.com

Personalized Bar Necklace

I love personalized jewelry because it's a way to infuse meaning into your everyday style. I recently ordered this necklace and I love it so much, I'm planning to order another one for myself and one as a gift! The options are endless! Sports fans can customize it with a team name, hometown, home state, latitude and longitude of your favorite stadium, your favorite player's number and so on.

$20
Available at: Amazon.com

Decibullz EarBuds

If you're like me, you have several pairs of earbuds tucked away and they're all pretty much the same. When I heard about Decibullz, I was intrigued because you actually mold them to fit your unique inner ear shape. This helps them stay snugly in your ears and makes them more comfortable to wear.

Starting at $49.99
Available at: Amazon.com

Team Pom Keychain

You can't avoid this keychain trend and seriously, who doesn't want a furry ball hanging off their purse?! This is my personal favorite because it offers a little team spirit.

$16.99
Available at: Fanatics.com

Dooney & Bourke Team Cross Body Purse

Looking for something luxe to give your favorite sports fan? She'll drool over this crossbody bag in her favorite team. It's the ideal size for gameday or even just running weekend errands.

$108
Available at: Dooney.com

College Jumpsuit

What's cozy, covered in your college team and perfect for hiding your food baby? This onesie!

$55
Available at: TipsyElves.com

Shoot Again Basketball Set

As an only child, I would've loved to have this growing up! Think of all the fun I would've had playing this in my room...all...by...myself. Anyway, this makes a great, fun gift for the basketball fan (and kid at heart).

$85
Available at: Wayfair.com

Quesadilla Maker

Calling all tailgate kings and queens! This may seem like just another kitchen gadget that will end up stuffed in the back of some dark cabinet, but the reviews are insanely positive. People love it! Get ready to be a quesadilla-making machine at your next tailgate or watch party.

$22
Available at: Wayfair.com

Cornhole Night Lights

Ahhh, the age-old question: How do you play cornhole in the dark when you can't see the hole? Let there be light, tailgaters! These cornhole night lights are your eureka moment.

$32 for a set of two
Available at: Wayfair.com

Statement Socks

I fondly refer to socks as the forgotten accessory because they really don't get any love, but can be delightfully fun to show off. I love Stance's sports collection, especially the ones featuring the best athletes making moves.

$18
Available at: Stance.com

Boot Bows

Aren't these just the most adorable little bows you've ever seen?! I didn't know "boot bows" existed, but now I'm thinking I NEED a gold set for my green USF rainboots. This houndstooth and crimson combo would be perfect for Alabama fans. Choose a set in your favorite shade to give your boots a pop of team spirit.

$24 per pair
Available at: PoppyClips.com

What's your favorite thing on my list?! Leave me a comment below. Happy holiday shopping!

XO,

The Style Ref

The Style Ref's Hails & Fails: July 2014

There were two kings of July: soccer and Lebron James. The drama-filled World Cup and Lebron's decision to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers ruled the sports world and it was (mostly) fun to watch. If you stepped out for summer vacation this month, catch up with The Style Ref's July hails (worth cheering about) and fails (worth sneering about) in sports fan fashion and style.

Sports Fan DIY: Loyalty Bracelets

Friendship bracelets are a familiar childhood relic that bring back memories of long days at summer camp and bonding with your new best friend. Although you might think these belong in the past, the friendship bracelet has reemerged as a major fashion accessory - vibrant colors, intricate designs and unique embellishments have transformed child's play into serious adult style.

The Style Ref's Hails & Fails: June 2014

World Cup fever swept the globe in June, so it might be hard to remember what else happened this month. Thankfully, The Style Ref was paying attention! Check out June's hails (worth cheering about) and fails (worth sneering about) in sports fan fashion and style.

Team USA Style for Under $50

Patriotism is in the air, thanks in part to World Cup fever and the Fourth of July. Get in the spirit with Team USA style that won't break your budget. Shop three red, white and blue outfits, each with a total price tag of less than $50!

The Ref's Best Picks of the Week for Sports Fans

7 Tips for a Fashionable World Cup

It's difficult to resist the contagious energy of the World Cup, especially from die-hard soccer fans. One of The Style Ref's fellow sports fanatics, Leslie Arriaza, is devoted to soccer and a go-to source for everything about the sport. Who better to offer World Cup wisdom and how to enjoy it in style?

Arriving in Style: Grading National Soccer Team Fashion

 

National teams from around the world have been arriving in Brazil for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, transforming the tarmac into a makeshift runway. Since there's no particular dress code, teams arrive in  a variety of attire ranging from training gear to power suits. Noticeably different from other leagues like the NBA, all players dress alike to show solidarity - those who play together arrive in style together.

World Cup Wish List

The 2014 FIFA World Cup kicks off in Brazil on June 12 and excitement is building around the world! Whether you're an avid soccer fan or a casual observer, it's impossible to resist the contagious energy of this global sporting event. National pride plus incredible athleticism, passionate fans and a whole lot of noise courtesy of the caxirola (replacing South Africa's vuvuzela) make the World Cup a special experience for any sports fan.

Celebrate America with Patriotic Gear for Sports Fans

Now that we've officially entered the Patriotic 6 - the six-week period between Memorial Day and Fourth of July - it's the perfect time to don a little extra red, white and blue. Plus, the World Cup kicks off in a few weeks, which means another big reason to celebrate America this summer.

Onesies for the Win

Onesies are definitely having a moment. These cozy, long-sleeved, one-piece pajamas aren't just for infants; in fact, the variety of adult patterns and styles available online is mind blowing. Options abound for sports fans who want to make a fashion statement in sleepwear, but first, some important decisions have to be made: Footed or footless? Hooded or non-hooded? Just one or one in every sport?

The Style Ref's Hails & Fails: Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics Fashion & Style So Far

Sochi 2014 is finally here and as expected, there has already been plenty to talk about. The Winter Games may seem like a whole lot of snow and medals, but this international event has something for everyone, especially sports fans with a passion for fashion.

Ready for Sochi? 10 Things That Will Make You Feel Like You're at the Winter Olympics

After the Super Bowl, another exciting sporting event will capture the globe's attention this February: the Sochi 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Since most Team USA fans will have to settle for watching the Winter Olympics from home, why not splurge in the name of the good ol' red, white and blue and treat yourself to some Sochi style?

The Style Ref's 2013 Holiday Gift Guide: For Her

Now that the men are out of the way, let's focus on the ladies. When it comes to choosing gifts for female sports fans, remember that style matters. Finding something in her favorite team that she'll want to show off to her friends might seem like a shopping challenge, right? Not with The Style Ref's help!

Travel with the Team in Style

As you make your travel plans this holiday season, don't forget to pack your team spirit! Prepare for your upcoming trip with stylish travel accessories that will have you looking forward to long lines, crying babies and crowded baggage claim.

Krazy for Koozies: The Perfect Drink Holder for Every Sports Fan

Year after year, tailgating traditions and beautiful weather bring sports fans together around the grill with beverages in hand. Whatever your preference, enjoying an ice cold refreshment just isn't complete without the right drink holder. No matter the sport or season, one thing is consistent: the koozie. This critical drink accessory takes many forms, but it's function remains the same - to isolate a cold container from your skin to preserve the liquid's chill and maintain your hand's comfort.

2012 TSR Rankings: The Year's Best in Fan Fashion & Style

You might have heard of the BCS Rankings, but those won't mean much come 2014, so here's a brand new list to dissect and debate: The 2012 TSR Rankings. This one has nothing to do with teams or records; it's all about the best in fan fashion and style in 2012. If you've been reading The Style Ref this year, you can probably guess a few favorites that made the list, but don't let that spoil the fun! In the spirit of New Year's Eve, let's take a look back at the big winners of 2012 as we look forward to 2013...

1. Team Dresses 

2. Nail Art

3. Fan Footwear

4. Go Team USA

5. Fan Jewelry

6. Olympic Gold Style

7. Fact: Women = 45% of NFL Fans

8. Change is Good

9. Vintage is Always In

10. Shrink It and Pink It is So Over

Do you think the 2012 TSR Rankings got it right?

XO & Happy New Year,

The Style Ref

Olympic Ink

Tattoos are symbols of things that carry special meaning, so it's not surprising that many athletes at London 2012 have the iconic Olympic rings inked on their bodies. These Olympians have worked tirelessly over the last four years and the majority of their lives to be among the best in their sport, so this tattoo serves as a badge of honor for this elite group of athletes, regardless of whether they ever medal.

Although the Olympic rings tattoo is generally popular among Olympians of all nationalities, the U.S. swim team takes it to another level. Aside from its obvious symbolism, it's a mark of prestige among American swimmers who fiercely compete for spots on the national Olympic team. Just how competitive is it? According to the New York Times, only two qualify in most events and the 49 members of the 2012 team represent close to the top one-tenth of a percent of the country’s registered swimmers.

American swimmers are certainly not the only ones showing off their rings. Take a peek at who TSR spotted with Olympic ink at London 2012:

USA Swimmer Matt Grevers

British Diver Nicholas Robinson Baker

USA Archer Khatuna Lorig

French Swimmer Clement Lefert

Canadian Hammer Thrower James Steacy

USA Swimmer Ryan Lochte

USA Gymnast Jonathan Horton

British Handball Player Kelsi Fairbrother

Canadian Swimmer Ryan Cochrane

Venezuelan Gymnast Jessica Lopez

USA Swimmer Michael Phelps

Want your own Olympic rings tattoo minus the discomfort and commitment? Try this temporary version and show off your ink!

Olympic Rings Temporary Tattoo

The rings are definitely a popular choice, but athletes express themselves through a variety of unique tats. Share your favorite with TSR on Facebook or Twitter!

XO,

The Style Ref