The Look O’ the Irish

In addition to drinking and the parade itself, part of the tradition of the Hoboken Saint Patrick's Day celebration is dressing up. Although many participants wear green, most have all found unique ways to show their individual style by adding personal touches to their outfits.

Mike DeSimone and Jack Zaucha from Hasbrouck Heights only had to spend $5 to look festive. DeSimone wore an oversized bow tie and Zaucha in a green tuxedo t-shirt, both looking like they were ready to go to a Leprechaun's formal event.

Right inside the Hoboken train station a cart sold last minute pieces for travelers who came unprepared. According to owner Bhuchung, the Irish shutter shades and green beads were most popular among the masses.

"We're sold out of beads already," said Bhuchung.

Customer Courtney Digiovanni from out of town was looking for a little extra something to add to her attire.

"Anything that blings or shines helps to get in the spirit," said Digiovanni.

Visiting guest Chanel Wehinger found a way to look festive and chic, but not over the top.

"These were only a dollar," said Wehinger, referring to her bright green leg warmers stretched over her black leggings and heels.

Hoboken resident Frank Deoril, who's been participating the celebration in the celebration for five years in a row wasn't afraid to make a statement and go all out with a green mullet wig.

"It was $10," said Deoril. "I saw it in the store and bought it because I'm an impulse buyer."

If $10 seems like a lot of money to spend on just a wig for one day, Cheryl Damico from Northville and Dominique Barjuha from Northwood spend $50 each on homemade costumes and t-shirts that say 'Irish whiskey makes me frisky'.

"It was worth every penny," said Damico, who is a first time parade-goer this year.

Hoboken resident Mike Hall spent a total of $20 on suspenders, knee high socks and other green accessories to stand out.

"It's not how much money you spend," Hall said. "It's about how much effort you put into it."

But not everyone on Washington Street was interested in putting in a lot of 'green' effort or money.

Out of towner Joy Morgan decided to attend the celebration last minute and threw on a green scarf. Despite the fact that almost every block was selling green accessories, she opted to keep her look simple.

"I don't like all the goofy stuff," said Morgan.

Stephanie Smith of Englewood incorporated a plaid shirt, which is a huge trend right now, into her look.

"I already had the shirt," said Smith.

Local boutique Hoboken Style on Newark Street sold last minute green pieces on a rack outside at 50 percent off.

"Every year we have a green day sale," said owner Tracey Carey. The most popular shirt sold at the boutique this year was a green 'My boyfriend is a super hero' cartoon tee shirt.

But perhaps Philadelphia resident Sean Mundy wore one of the most notable outfits of the day. Mundy rocked a green formal suit with green croc shoes. He wouldn't disclose how much he had spent on the entire outfit.

"I can tell you the shoes were more expensive then the suit," said Mundy, who dressed up to celebrate and represent his Irish pride.