How Did Ugly Christmas Sweaters Become a Holiday Tradition?
Every December, closets open to reveal something unexpected: the These loud, festive garments have become as much a part of the holidays as stockings and candy canes. But how did wearing intentionally tacky knitwear turn into a beloved tradition? The Cozy Beginnings Christmas sweaters weren't always meant to be ugly. In fact, they started as sincere fashion choices during the 1950s and 1960s. Families would wear matching holiday sweaters for portraits and gatherings. These early versions featured simple snowflakes, reindeer, and Christmas trees. However, by the 1980s, something shifted. Designers began creating increasingly bold patterns with bright colors, puffy paint, and even attached ornaments. What was once considered fashionable started looking outdated and garish to younger generations. From Embarrassing to Ironic The real turning point came in the early 2000s. Young adults discovered their parents' old holiday knitwear tucked away in attics. Rather than tossing these ...