This Is Why March Madness Isn't Just On The Court

The NCAA March Madness is in full swing and all of us in Aurora, Colorado are here for it. Sports bars are packed with fans, screens are lit up in living rooms, and half your friends suddenly think they’re college basketball experts. Whether you’re hosting in your home or catching the games over pizza rolls and a calzone at Legends of Aurora Sports Grill, or a mushroom burger and carrot cake at Mountain Pass Sports Bar, the vibes are strong.

But let’s be real, no one wants to be that person in busted sneakers and a hoodie that’s seen better days. March Madness is the perfect excuse to refresh your look. We’re talking about athletic wear that doesn’t just scream “I’m watching sports,” but actually fits your day-to-day. From baggy cargos and puffers to clean men’s sneakers that flex without trying too hard, it’s about looking good even if your March Madness bracket’s falling apart.

Prepping your bracket-ready wardrobe

Your bracket might be a mess by the Sweet 16 (we barely made it past Selection Sunday), but your fit doesn’t have to be. March Madness season is peak time for layering up, mixing styles, and pulling off that sporting event look. You want pieces that work. If you're crashing on your friend’s couch or pulling up to shop our latest collection at Notorious Lifestyle at the Aurora Mall, your style will dictate your mood, so you’re less worried about how your team will perform. No upsets here! 

First things first: Let’s start with the streetwear staples:

You guessed it, there’s no going wrong with oversized hoodies. They’re cozy, they layer well, and they make space for a sneaky team tee underneath or just a graphic or vintage top. 

Next, choose between joggers or cargos but go neutral because earthy tones pair with literally anything. If you’re in a more assertive mindset, throw on a pop of color. Complete the look with a puffer jacket or light bomber, they are perfect for Aurora’s “is it winter or spring?” weather. 

And don’t sleep on athletic wear that doubles as streetwear. Think fitted tech pants, zip-ups, or mesh shorts with compression layers. Looks like you’re ready to hit the court, even if your real plans include wings and a group FaceTime after a bad beat.

For women’s clothing, it’s all about the balance: cropped sweatshirts, baggy denim, biker shorts with varsity jackets. College basketball fans will know what we're talking about. 

Best sneakers to wear during March Madness 2025

Now, let’s talk about what's really important: Sneakers. 2025’s basketball-inspired drops are in and they’re not just performance kicks, they’re lifestyle flexes too. If you have many great kicks, now's the time to show them off. Plan a rotation starting with the first round and all the way to the championship game; and make sure you're ready for both the men's and women’s basketball games. 

Let’s get into the ones you need to know about:

Nike GT Cut 3

Nike’s been killing it with the GT series, and the GT Cut 3 is no exception. Super light, bounce for days, and the colorways are clean. The “Infrared Pulse” drop is wild on the court but easy to style with cargos or tech pants. These are built for hoopers but made for everyday wear too.

Adidas Harden Vol. 9

James Harden’s latest sneaker dropped just in time for the madness. The Vol. 9’s got a sleeker look than in past years and hits that perfect balance between performance and street style.

New Balance TWO WXY V5

If you know, you know. New Balance has been heating up the court lately. The TWO WXY V5 brings serious tech but still looks fly with outdoor clothing or even wide-leg jeans. The “Neon Skyline” colorway is bright without doing too much, and they’ve got that comfortable ride NB is known for.

Where to shop clothing during the madness

When the games are on and the energy’s high, you don’t want to be stressing over where to find the right fit. Aurora’s got options. Let’s break it down.

Boutique clothing shop gems

Call us biased, but boutique shopping is it when you want to stand out. You’re not digging through racks of the same five hoodies everyone already owns. You’re finding pieces with actual personality. Fits that feel more you, not just whatever’s trending in big box stores.

Our Notorious Lifestyle store in the Town Center at Aurora might be the only stop you need. We’ve got men’s sneakers, women’s shoes and even some kicks for the kids if you’re planning to bring them along to a watch party. We range big brands, independent designers and small business creations, so you will find what you’re looking for in clothing. If you’re up for a pre-loved vibe, browse our vintage section. We’re also the largest consignment store in Colorado, so you’ll definitely find what you seek. 

Fit ideas for every Madness mood

When you wear clothes that feel good, even a busted bracket doesn’t sting as much. That’s why March Madness deserves more than a lazy fit. Here’s how to dress for every kind of game-day vibe:

Watch party at a friend's place

Think comfort that still gets compliments.

• Go with an oversized hoodie (bonus if it reps your pick for the Final Four)
• Pair it with loose cargos or track pants
• Finish it off with Adidas Gazelles—clean, low-key and always on point

Bar hopping for the Final Four

You’ll be in and out of spots, so go for layers that keep up.

• Start with tech fleece joggers or relaxed-fit jeans
• Throw on a crewneck or graphic tee under a puffer or utility jacket
• Step out in New Balance TWO WXY V5s or LeBron James shoes. That will give you style and bounce if you get tempted to do your dunks.

Staying in? Still dress like you care

Even if it’s just you, the couch, a good game and a questionable betting app, if you're a true basketball fan, you can’t slack on style. We like to call it a home court advantage. 

• Matching sweats or a neutral-toned lounge set
• Layer with a soft flannel or oversized zip-up
• Go with Harden Vol. 9s or keep it cozy and sockless with slides.