Because I started listening to ska and going to shows in the early 90's I have always considered myself a child of the 3rd wave. I have held the image of the Rudeboy/Rudegirl in respect but I know where my loyalties lie - if it wasn't for that first NYCitizens tape I would not be the ska fan I am today.
In the early 90's it seemed that people at shows fell into 1 of 3 camps:
We were obviously the new kids at shows, but I liked the diversity of style. It's something that I miss. Today the crowds all look the same as everyone tries to emulate old pictures and each other... Everyone's too scared to look different, afraid they'll be mocked for not being "traditional" or a "true fan", as though your outfit decided your musical taste, instead of just reflecting it.
Embrace individuality, I say, and recognize that there is another style of dress. Pleated skirts, checkerboard ties, band t-shirts, plaid designs, untucked shirts, converse sneakers - these are the true gear of the 3rd wave kids, and I think it's time that it's recognized as such. As long as people don't call themselves "rude" when they dress this way, it's a totally valid form of fashion for the 3rd wave - not as stylish as the first two, granted, but created by the fans in an effort to associate themselves with the music, and a lot of fun to wear.