‘Tis the season to be jolly, and while you’re getting busy decking your halls, don’t forget to deck yourself out in some new threads—or more specifically, an ugly sweater.
Why is your closet in need of an ugly sweater? Let’s face it, there’s something endearing about that “dorktastic” knitted reindeer monstrosity your grandma gave you as a kid. Why not recreate those warm, fuzzy and slightly embittered feelings you got while unwrapping it as a child?
Once you have decided to secure your very own ugly sweater, embark on your journey to find the one that speaks to you. First rule of ugly sweater shopping—do not go to a chain store. Wet Seal and Forever 21 are fine and dandy for your everyday clothing needs, but do not capture the spirit of the ugly sweater. For an authentic ugly sweater, you need something that is so hideous, its previous owner had no choice but to abandon it at the local Salvation Army.
Thrift stores are the way to go. Find your preferred thrift store and peruse the aisles for the perfect ugly sweater. How do you know when you’ve found your ugly sweater soul mate? Here are a few simple tips:
The fit is, for the most part, irrelevant. You don’t want an ugly sweater that shows off your every curve. In fact, you should appear mostly shapeless in the ugly sweater. Still, you don’t want an ugly sweater that swallows you whole. Try getting a sweater a size bigger than your actual size, in your own size if it’s made big, or if you’re a lady turning to old men’s sweaters, get one a size smaller than you really are.
The best way to know if you’ve found the ugly sweater of your dreams is to spend a day under its itchy wooly cover.
Unfortunately, Goodwill will probably not take kindly to you parading around the premises all day in one of their shirts. So you need to try it on, find the nearest mirror, pose like you’re the Lady Gaga of ugly sweaters and decide whether or not you can see yourself engaging in daily life while wearing this particular ugly sweater. If you feel any unease at this idea, seek another sweater.
The style is also important. Turtlenecks are good for keeping your neck warm and for hiding the evidence of last night’s steamy makeout session, but not much else. V-necks are good for showing off those sexy collarbones or for layering with scarves. You can also find button-down, cardigan-esque ugly sweaters that are convenient for their easy removal.
Design and color should be considered as well. Pick something that compliments the rest of your wardrobe well. You will not want to wear the ugly sweater if nothing you own even matches it. Keep your personality in mind as well. If you’re the classy type when it comes to fashion, pick a timeless argyle or an abstract design. If you’re on the quirky side, don’t shy away from grandma’s old
reindeer sweater.
Now that you have your very own ugly sweater, you’ve got to put together your ugly sweater ensemble. Guys, a pair of well-fitting dark jeans and stylish sneakers fit nicely together. Ladies, if you have a pair of black leggings or yoga pants, these will look phenomenal with the ugly sweater, especially with some cute flats.
Scarves will work well with either gender. Remember, just because the sweater is ugly doesn’t mean you can’t look hot.
Don’t let the name fool you; an ugly sweater can be adorable when worn right, and even more so when you’re feeling comfortable in one that suits your style.
Need a place to show off your ugly sweater? The Towers Leadership Advisory Board is hosting a party in Hoyt Hall’s kitchen on Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. Bring a non-perishable good to donate to victims of Hurricane Sandy and be prepared to color, karaoke and of course, strut in your snazzy, new, ugly sweater.
