Houndstooth Hype

Life in Tuscaloosa gets pretty crazy this time of year. A huge number of college students come back from their summer vacations just in time for classes to begin at UA. If you live here, you know not to darken the doors of Wal-Mart or Target the weekend before classes begin, it takes twice as long to get across town than it did during the summer, and don't even think about renting a UHAUL trailer. All of that is somewhat tolerable, because we know it is time for some Alabama football. Gamedays on the Quad, tailgating, Big Bad Wolves Barbeque, kids everywhere dressed for the game in their cheerleading outfits and football jerseys, not to mention the actual game itself. These are a few of the fun things I look forward to. It's all part of the gameday experience, and a fun time here in T-town. This season being Saban's first season at UA, is especially exciting.

Lately, I have been in several shops here in town looking at Alabama gear. Oh yeah, that's another thing...you have to have something to wear to the game. Some go to more trouble than others, completing their outfit with UA or elephant jewelry, handbag, and shoes. I could go on and on. I am sure this is true for any school, but this just happens to be what I am familiar with. Anyway, when I was in these stores, last week, I noticed the abundance of houndstooth paraphenalia. For those of you not familiar with Alabama football: A black and white houndstooth hat was worn by Coach Paul Bear Bryant. He is considered by many to be the greatest football coach of all time and practically worshiped in Tide Country.

I personally like the look...maybe because I love Alabama football. Last season the big thing was houndstooth headbands and many people had the houndstooth cap (see pic below). This season, the options are almost limitless. I saw houndstooth purses (of all shapes and sizes), bracelets, covered notebooks and journals, wallets and checkbook covers.

You can also purchase umbrellas, koozies (holds a canned beverage...one store was even selling monogrammed ones..very cute), visors, neckties, sunglasses (notice in picture, the houndstooth pattern is on the lens), scarves, keychains, and my personal favorite: ponytail holder with ribbon attached...perfect for Riley's hair, to be worn with her cheerleader outfit to the game this Saturday! I couldn't resist...it is so cute.

Hope everyone has a great football/Labor Day weekend! Roll Tide!!!