Happy Friday, gang! There’s something special about September weekends when game day energy fills the air. Whether you’re headed to the stadium or keeping it casual in the backyard, tailgating is as much about the food and camaraderie as it is the game itself. This week’s Fridays with Oscar is all about tailgate style over 50—layered looks that are cozy yet chic—and a spread of game day flavors, including a bourbon apple cider smash and pulled pork sliders with tangy apple slaw. It’s an easy, festive way to celebrate the season.
Here’s What You’ll Find in This Post:
- Tailgate style over 50 with casual, layered looks from Beth and Kelly 👟👖
- 🥃 A Bourbon Apple Cider Smash cocktail that’s crisp, cozy, and game-day ready
- 🍔 Pulled Pork Sliders topped with crunchy apple slaw—easy, crowd-pleasing tailgate food
- Inspiration for keeping your fall weekends stylish yet comfortable
- A check-in with Oscar and Ollie, who never miss the fun 🐾
Beth’s Tailgate Style
Tailgating calls for layers that can move with you as the day shifts from sunny to breezy. I started with a fun graphic tee, then added a brushed cashmere zip-up hoodie for warmth without bulk.
Beth’s Tailgate Style
J.Crew’s nipped straight jeans are comfortable yet polished, and snakeprint slip-on sneakers add a playful twist to an otherwise classic look. It’s casual, sporty, and ready for game day gatherings.
Kelly’s Game Day Style
For me, nothing feels more all-American than denim on denim. I paired Madewell’s slim crop jeans with a western-style denim shirt for a nod to classic casual.
Kelly’s Game Day Style
Rothy’s slip-on sneakers keep the look laid-back and comfortable—perfect for running around with snacks or chasing after Oscar. It’s an outfit I’ll be reaching for whether I’m tailgating or just enjoying a Saturday at home.
Game Day Recipes
🥃 Bourbon Apple Cider Smash
A fall tailgate isn’t complete without something seasonal to sip. This bourbon apple cider smash combines crisp apple cider, warming bourbon, and a splash of lemon, balanced with a hint of spice. It’s refreshing, cozy, and perfect for raising a glass with friends before kickoff.
Bourbon Apple Cider Smash
Ingredients:
- 4 oz bourbon
- 6 oz fresh apple cider
- 1 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 oz simple syrup or maple syrup
- 3 –4 fresh apple slices
- 3 –4 fresh thyme sprigs plus extra for garnish
- Crushed ice
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle apple slices and thyme with simple syrup.
- Add bourbon, apple cider, and lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well chilled.
- Strain into glasses filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with an apple slice and a sprig of thyme.
Did you make this recipe?
We’d love to see! Tag us @styleatacertainage
🍔 Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Slaw
Sliders are a tailgate classic, and this version brings together tender pulled pork and a crunchy apple slaw for a flavor-packed bite. Sweet, savory, and just a little tangy, these sliders are easy to serve up in batches—ideal for feeding a crowd without fuss.
Pulled Pork Sliders with Apple Slaw
Ingredients:
For the Sliders:
- 2 lbs store-bought pulled pork with or without sauce
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 1 tbsp butter melted (for brushing)
- Sesame seeds optional, for topping
For the Apple Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large apple Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, thinly sliced into matchsticks
- 1 medium carrot shredded
- 3 green onions thinly sliced
Slaw Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Make the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine cabbages, apple, carrot, and green onions. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo, vinegar, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour over slaw and toss to coat. Chill until ready to serve.
- Warm the Pork: Heat the pulled pork according to package directions. If it doesn’t already have sauce, add your favorite barbecue sauce to taste.
- Assemble Sliders: Split buns, add warm pulled pork, and top generously with apple slaw. Place the top bun on and brush lightly with melted butter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve: Best enjoyed warm with the Bourbon Apple Cider Smash.
Did you make this recipe?
We’d love to see! Tag us @styleatacertainage
Cheers to Tailgate Style Over 50!
Game day is about more than football—it’s about gathering with friends, sharing good food, and feeling comfortable in what you wear. This week’s tailgate style over 50 proves you can keep things casual while still looking chic, all while enjoying seasonal flavors that make fall so special.
Oscar, Ollie, Kelly, and I are wishing you a weekend filled with fun, flavor, and a little tailgate spirit. Cheers to casual layers and game day favorites! 🥃🍔🐾 For more game day inspiration, check out: Frozen Margaritas and Caprese Sliders.
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