Last weekend, millions of Americans flocked to their TVs to tune into the Super Bowl. Some watched to follow the thrilling game, where the Eagles brought home an epic victory, to catch some of the iconic advertisements, or to jam out to Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show. For others, including myself, eyes were on the audience, specifically at the players’ partners.
As key players like Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley make a name for themselves on the field, they also draw attention to their partners. Sometimes, it can happen the other way around, like in the case of Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift, where her icon status brought much attention to her sideline presence at Chiefs games. The partners of athletes, historically known as WAGs- wives and girlfriends of pro athletes, have evolved into critical aspects of their partners’ careers and brands. Since we only get a glimpse of them, WAGs’ styles are a major way they communicate their personality, relationship, and vibe to fans – which can make or break fans’ support!
To better understand the art of WAG fashion, think of the OG WAG, Victoria Beckham. In the early 2000s, shortly after her internationally famous girl group the Spice Girls disbanded, Victoria Beckham sported her fashion in the soccer stands to cheer on her husband David Beckham, a former English pro footballer. Her iconic looks which consisted of bug-eyed sunglasses and Birkins, with a tasteful hint of England merch resonated with both Spice Girl fans, fashion lovers, and soccer fans alike. As a WAG, Beckham thoughtfully tailored her outfits to show her support for her husband while catering to various audiences she knew would be watching.
More recent examples of notable WAGs include Ayesha Curry, wife of the Warriors point guard, Steph Curry, Eagles quarterback, Jalen Hurts fiance, Bry Burrows, and Alexandra Mleux, F1 Ferrari racer, Charles Leclerc’s girlfriend. All of these women have established a brand for themselves on the sidelines while maintaining successful careers. Like how Ayesha Curry hosts her own cooking show on Food Network, or how Bry Burrows works as an artificial intelligence partner for tech giant IBM, the most important takeaway from this analysis is that WAGs are much more than their partners’ professions, they are skilled, strategic, and fashionable women.
Next time you attend a sports game, consider taking inspiration from these iconic women for your gameday look. You just might catch the attention of a player!
Article sources:
Image sources:
Comments