Watch any sporting event up and down the country and you will see hundreds of people arrive dressed up as fantastical creatures, fictional characters and terrifying ghouls with the aim of shedding their inhibitions and having a good time.
From 26 mile marathons and fun runs to premiership football and rugby sevens, wearing anything remotely normal is often actively discouraged. In fact, fancy dress has become such a big part of sporting events that many fancy dress shops have clothing lines specifically for sport fans.
Spacemen
Little Bo Peep and her Sheep
Animals
Food
Historical Figures
Rugby fan Gaby O’Leary loves to dress up for matches...
I really enjoy dressing up for rugby matches as there is a real sense of camaraderie before, during and after the match. There is always friendly banter with the opposition's fans, and recognition and solidarity from people in similar costumes. I think that camaraderie also extends to fans who don't dress up as the excitement and fun factor of the crazier outfits never fails to start a contagious smile amongst all rugby fans. It's a really positive social aspect of attending rugby matches – even if your team loses!