February 16, 2013 at 4:02 AM

THON’s quirky and bright fashion sense — commonly featuring tutus, neon colors, fanny packs and outlandish hats — serves a specific purpose, students said.

“It sets the tone that this is a place to let loose and have a great time,” Kelly Corradi said.

The outlandish fashion sense helps create and maintain the energetic atmosphere at the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, she said.

Amanda Schweitzer said that every different THON operating committee has their own themed hats, including moose and lobsters, often creating large groups of people wearing the same hat on the dance floor.

“In past years, I’ve had cheeseburgers on my head,” Schweitzer (senior-nuclear engineering) said.

Sarah Schuchman and Kendel Jaffe said that the crazy fashion sense helps keep them motivated through hours of dancing and helps dancers seem them from the stands.

 “I was just told to dress crazy,” Allison Marow said. “Everyone says that.”

 Corradi (sophomore-nursing) said that the fashion is also for the kids.

 “Kids want to have fun with someone that looks silly and whimsical,” she said.