It’s an away game weekend for the Nittany Lions, but downtown Penn State apparel shops are sure to be packed for parents’ weekend, buying their sons and daughters all the latest team swag. Game day provides a great opportunity to show off your favorite Penn State gear, but what you wear to the game could say something about you.

Here’s a few of the common themes you’ll run across at Beaver Stadium throughout the season:

1. The Typical Fan

Accounts for 90% of Beaver Stadium, not just the student section. White Out shirts, jerseys for players who may or may not still be with the team — just blue and white galore. Chances are they have a paw print or Nittany Lion on their cheeks if their whole face isn’t painted. If they’re a girl, they probably have a hair bow of some sort.

2. Your Cliché Bro

Pretty self-explanatory, we all know the type:

• Cut off shirt (sleeves may or may not be self-removed) or pinnie
• Khaki or other typically “preppy” shorts (bonus points if they’re salmon)
• Sperry’s
• Any pair of clubs.psu.edu, Greek life, or even State Shades

In addition to these, a can of Natty Light is a common, though not essential, accessory. It’s likely that you will not see these people until mid-way through the first quarter in some state of inebriation.

3. The “Crafty” Girls

Occasionally one may come across a few overambitious girls who get creative with their game day attire. This can range from strategically cut slits or cutting the bottom half shirts into strips that sometimes include beading. Super crafty fans make use of Penn State themed duct tape, using it to make bandeau tops. Girls like this usually travel in packs and tend to match.

4. The Faithful Alumni

Nowadays can be seen wearing a “We are because he was,” “Thanks for the memories,” or any other Joe Paterno-themed t-shirt that may or may not be produced by Smack Apparel. May also be sporting mom jeans and a generally disgruntled attitude at the mention of Rodney Erickson, the Board of Trustees, and/or Onward State.

We still love them, though, even if the “Emmert Can Kiss My Ass” t-shirt might be a little much.

5. The Fan-in-Training

Without a doubt the most adorable variety. Can be found in miniature versions of any of the previously mentioned outfits or, in rare, extra cute circumstances, Nittany Lion costumes. Usually bright-eyed and amazed by the game day excitement.

Are there any other stereotypical game day outfits we missed? Let us know in the comments!