Rugby fans comes in all shapes and sizes. However, there's no point denying that over the past few years, a certain prototype has been developed when you think of the fan that heads along to the Aviva on a Six Nations match-day. There's plenty of people out there that would rally against that cliché but we're here to suggest that embracing the style is the only acceptable way to go.
We're not saying that you should go full on Ross O'Carroll-Kelly in your mannerisms and general demeanour but, in his grown up iteration, there's no denying that he's a man who knows how to dress for the occasion. So, with that in mind, we're here to give you a hand with a few tips on how to really look like an Irish rugby fan without coming across as a caricature.
Headwear
Do: take a minimalist approach to headwear. If forced to wear anything, go for a simple beanie hat or baseball cap. However, and this is important, the baseball cap is only to be worn in the stadium for purely utilitarian purposes. It's to be taken off on the walk too and from Lansdowne Road.
Don't: Over do it.
Accessories
Dos: One of the main advantages of rugby over other sports is the ability to have a pint in your seat. Invariably lager, usually Heineken in a plastic cup, is a solid accessory. If you're lucky enough to have a Senior Schools Cup medal, don't be afraid to wear it around your neck.
Don'ts: Don't bring a replica of the trophy to a competition game. It tempts fate, as these fans did against Argentina last October. Fancy dress is acceptable at times of revelry, messing with fate is not.
Top
Do: Explore an abundance of options. A replica jersey is fine assuming you have something stylish to put over it as the day turns to night. Your best bet however is a branded polo shirt. Attractive partner and harbour view are entirely optional but nonetheless welcome.
And while we're at it, keep the collar down. This isn't 2005.
Don't: Maybe avoid dungarees.
Bottom
Do: It would seem that, in truth, the style of pant really doesn't matter. The crucial aspect is that you turn them up at the bottom. Showing some ankle is crucial for every decent rugby aficionado.
Don't: Again, best avoid dungarees.
Shoes
Do: Only one option. The humble Dubarry shoe. Rarely has a shoe become so universally accepted by a sport. Dubarry's flagship store at 35 College Green is heaven for this kind of thing.
Don't: Go for anything else. Stick with the tried and trusted.
Slang
Do: Use an acronym where the players name fits such an honour, e.g. ROG, BOD. If from Leinster, use nicknames for Leinster players e.g. Johnny, Mads, Dev, Kearns, Church. If from Munster, use nicknames for Munster players only e.g. Zeebs.
Also fine to refer to your beer as 'Ken' and shoes as 'Dubes'.
Don't: Refer to a referee by his Christian name, with the exception of Nigel Owens. If from Leinster, do not use nicknames for Munster players e.g. Zeebs. If from Munster, do not use nicknames for Leinster players e.g. Johnny, Dev, Kearns, Church.
It is not fine to refer to your drink as 'Bav' or shoes as 'Wellies'.
