My Tips for Looking (Appropriately) Cute for Super Bowl Festivities

Quick, who's playing in Sunday's Super Bowl? If you said the Cowboys and the Bears, do not pass Go, do not collect anything but a sneer from your significant other.

If, however, you know (and kinda care) who's going to be throwing down in Dallas (if the weather ever clears), then odds are you're going to be watching the game. And, if you're going to be watching, wouldn't it be nice if you didn't come across looking like you're trying too hard -- or mistaking Super Sunday for a red carpet event?

Here, to help make that a reality, are some tips for looking game-day cute.

Tip #1: Keep your hair simple. No fancy styles allowed. Go for carefree waves or a (deliberately) messy, undone bun -- anything that's low maintenance. Futzing with your hair during the game is strictly verboten.

Tip #2: Don't overdo it with the makeup. Remember that the whole day is predicated on a sporting event and that the fare won't likely get any more glamorous than seven-layer dip, so keep your eyes and lips appropriately low key so that you're not competing with the television for your guy's glances.

Play up your looks, but in a subtle way. Go with some lengthening mascara (here's how I make my pathetic eyelashes look long and lush), a pop of color on your cheeks (the "Gossip Girl" clan nails the pretty blush look every time) and a swipe of a sedately colored gloss (this is one of those times to shy away from dark or bold lipstick).

Tip #3: Dress appropriately. I'm not saying you need to don a big 'ol cheesehead hat or drape yourself in terrible towels, but please, keep things casual. Think jeans and a cute plaid shirt or cords and a black top. Heck, you can even wear a jersey if you're really vested in what's happening on the field, but for heaven's sake, leave the skin tight minis and sky high stilettos for another day and time.

Are you even going to be watching the game? Or are you and the girls going to use it as an excuse to catch a movie or do some shopping? (You could also indulge in an at-home spa treatment!)