From the beads and the parade, to the many tropical drinks, Tampa's Gasparilla is a time unlike any other. Deciding what to wear as well as dressing up for Gasparilla can be one of the most exciting parts of the Gasparilla experience. There is an extremely large range of outfits seen throughout the day. Many people look as if they have just walked off the set of Pirates of the Caribbean, while others enjoy the day simply wearing the typical red and black colors you expect to see when you think of pirates.
Yo ho, yo ho, it’s a pirate’s life for me!
If this is your mentality and you have an inner pirate self, then definitely go all out for Gasparilla! Make sure to order a costume in advance. Add a large lacy pirate hat and folded over knee-high black boots. It is probably best to do flat boots rather than heeled ones because you will be walking around a ton throughout the day. Add a set of costume jewelry gold bangles to complete your look.
Black eyeliner is a must for the pirate fanatic. Make sure you choose waterproof eyeliner and mascara, as Gasparilla can get pretty hot. As seen on many of our favorite pirates, braids make up much of the hairstyle. To make this a more modern and fashionable look, create one small braid and pin it behind your ear. Also, use a salt-water hair mist on your hair after showering for an authentic high-seas look.
Part of that world
If you haven’t quite, yet, accepted the role of becoming a pirate (it will happen, eventually) than you can use pieces from both perspectives. To do this, you can incorporate the pirate accessories without having to wear an entire pirate costume.
Temperatures for Gasparilla vary, but typically start out chilly in the morning and get warmer throughout the day. Since this is the case, it’s a good idea to wear layers that are removable. Bring a light jacket -- leather jackets look amazing -- for the breezy morning. Add some ankle boots with a buckle, for a casual yet cute look with skinny jeans.
I am more of a Wendy than a Captain Hook
Many people choose to wear the so-called pirate colors, rather than dressing up in costume for Gasparilla. These colors consist of red, black and white and can be worn as solids, or even in prints. There are endless possibilities for the outfits you can wear, consisting of these colors. A white skater skirt looks adorable with a black or red fitted crop top and some Jacks. Fold up a red bandana into a headband to wear in your hair. This looks cute with both straightened hair and hair curled or spiraled with a wand. Add some chunky jewelry to your outfit for embellishment.
No matter what option you choose for Gasparilla, you will start the day in black and red and end the day wearing multiple colorful beaded necklaces. Since this amazing festival is only once a year, don’t be afraid to let your inner pirate show! And, remember, pirates can be fashionable, too.
