I have not worn one, at least not to my knowledge. Nor have I been to a party where they are required and judged. And I’m not sure why. Do I not appear to be the kind of person that would have or wear one? Is there is a type of person more suited for this kind of party than me? Am I not fun? I mean, if I was invited to such a get together, I could easily find one online or in just about any department store to wear. Or better yet, I could take out my art supplies and embellish one I have in my closet, truly making it unique. Even though I’ve never been asked to participate before, maybe this year, will be the year.
And speaking of years, no one’s sure when this trend began. The 1980s? 1990s? Whichever decade kicked it off, it is believed that these items were actually fashionable then. What changed was when the original wearers had children. And these kids found them. Maybe in a drawer stuffed with other winter clothes, tucked in the back of a musty closet, or in a holiday box in a dusty attic. Wherever they were discovered, these kids thought these objects were less than tasteful, which in their eyes made them…cool. And when these pieces were labeled vintage, their popularity soared high, miles into the stratosphere. And hence, the tradition of wearing an ugly sweater was born.
Ugly sweater parties have become commonplace in the last twenty-five years. In the beginning, bright green and red sweaters were made more festive with flashing lights and bows. Not so much ugly, more tacky or gaudy. Nowadays some sport scary looking reindeer, tinsel laden trees, or grinch-like faces. While others go a step further, attaching stuffed animals like squirrels or flamingos to their design, or creating snow globes made out of clear plastic bowls that are affixed to their knitwear. I even found ones that may have been created specifically with the intent of bribing the judges. These have a Christmas stocking adhered to the front with an actual bottle of cheer inside!
From my journal: July 13, 2022 Newbury Park, California
“It’s Christmas in July at the Mad Attic (thrift store)…had to laugh at some of the sweaters for sale! Bulbs, garland, and holly sewn on. Good for a party…”
Although I have been aware of these parties, I did not know there are actual rules for qualifying for the “Best” and “Worst” Ugly Sweater. In case you didn’t know either, here they are.
- You must wear a Christmas or Winter themed sweater, sweatshirt, vest, or jacket to the event.
- You may add to or alter your sweater, however whatever you add or make must be attached.
- Additional items such as hats, pants, or socks will NOT be considered when voting, but a contestant is encouraged to wear them for entertainment purposes.
- When it is time to vote, you can NOT vote for yourself.
- The difference between the Best and Worst is as follows. The Best is a sweater that is one of a kind, has interesting color combinations, and has a clever theme. The Worst is one that leaves the viewer wondering, “What is that?” or “What the heck?” or thinking, “Ugh!”
In addition to the rules, I learned a few strategies that just may tip the votes in one’s favor.
- Think about the people attending the party. What’s considered “ugly” to one group, may be cute to another. Be sure to gear your design accordingly. Choose charmingly grotesque, not offensive.
- Although additional items are NOT to be considered in voting, they can add a little hideousness to the overall effect. That’s a good thing.
- Consider an interactive sweater. Maybe attaching something like a basketball net to your sweater will sway some votes your way. Nothing says I’m worthy of your vote more than letting someone throw balls at you.
Once the voting is in, what does the lucky winner receive? Bragging rights, yay! However, if you happen to be invited by a hostess with the mostest, you may also get an award or trophy! How cool is that?
So, if you like shopping for that one of kind sweater, or are a creative DIYer, and you also have a competitive spirit, hosting or participating in an ugly sweater party might be a fun way to bring your family and friends together for some holiday cheer. And if your bash needs a few more partygoers, think of me. I know I can do ugly. Just say the word, and I’ll there!
A Journal Journey 