I think this might be more of a regional thing rather than an American thing. I hardly see anyone wear these sweaters and haven’t for several years. The only person I have seen wearing something like this recently is my boss’ boss at our xmas party. When I was a kid, the only people I saw wearing things like this were teachers. As far as I could see, this was never really a “tradition” or mainstream…but I can certainly imagine it being more popular in other areas of the country.

I’ve seen a few around town–usually paired with turtlenecks, baggy sweatpants that gather at the ankle, wool socks and tennis shoes (on cold days). Shudder.

Oh, they are going strong here in the midwest! Personally I don’t care for the sweaters, but a tasteful vintagey crystal holiday broach can be lovely.

This is alive here in Pittsburgh PA. Sweaters, sweatshirts, ties, socks and even Steelers apparel.

ha-ha…only at Ugly Sweater Holiday Parties

Nope, not fading at all in SW Kansas. I’ve seen *plenty* of holiday-themed apparel this year. But then, we’re usually at least a couple of years behind the coasts on major trends!

I think retailers didn’t want to get stuck with the extra holiday sweater inventory.

My husband’s tradition is to wear a silk holiday tie everday after Thanksgiving to Christmas. He dresses very business formal to work in tailored suits. His ties are not gaudy. It works for him – giving his very formal look a festive flair

I had always wondered if it was a generational thing- my mother-in-law and her friends all wear them(in Florida) but I have also seen them here in the midwest (on teachers)- I feel like I see festive but more simplistic tees on youngsters, for example a young girl was wearing a tee that had a simple ho ho ho across it! I dont think it will die out anytime soon ;)

I barely see anyone wear anything Christmas themed out here in New York. And I haven’t seen much of it in stores either.

Oh my! Holiday themed sweaters and garb are more for teachers of small children, a sure way to look very old-lady! I’m with Shari and Eva – a touch of festive flair goes a very long way. A lovely brooch, a nice tie, a wonderful scarf – read not gaudy or even close to “decor” – leave the twinkle lights on the tree, folks.
I love to do a vintage Christmas tree pin on a red sweater, or my Hermes snowflake scarf in muted grays and ivory filling in the neckline of my coat, or on my black velvet top, a sparkling snowflake brooch – but not all at once!

Here it’s the moms and those who work with small children (and grandmothers too of course) who wear holiday themed sweaters.

I think many of the teachers pull the look off well but they usually have cute trim bodies that would look good in anything!

Here, I think “the rest of us” have figured out that this look doesn’t flatter and we’ve moved on.

Just wanted to add that my husband has a holiday tie but now that I think of it, he’s only worn it when teaching a kids’ group at church (and only then for them.)

Wendy, I’m also writing from a NY perspective, so thanks for the confirmation! I’m glad I’m not just in denial

I saw a lady wearing a holiday sweatshirt at Trader Joe’s today. It was some kind of a winter landscape.

I know one immigration lawyer who wears festive holiday ties with his suits. I think it’s supposed to be tongue in cheek. At least I hope so.

I’ve lived in Chicago and Connecticut, and holiday sweaters are seen in both places to be an age thing — worn either by little children or old ladies. I have heard a couple of friends say they’ve only worn them at Ugly Sweater Parties, but I’ve never been to one of those. Yet.

Ah ha. The act of wearing Christmas themed attire seems to be a regional and generational thing in America. I’ve seen two people wear them in Seattle this season so far (both older ladies). It is definitely not an urban trend, unless you’re going to an “ugly sweater party”.

It’s still all a foreign thing to me. In fact, the idea of wearing festive Christmas colours in trendy clothing at Christmas time is just as foreign. I continue to live and learn!

I’ve never worn or owned a christmas sweater, but since I know a few certain-someone’s who own one or even several (including one person who is related to me), I’m keeping my lips ZIPPED on this particular topic!!

All I will say is that I do know a shop or two (not in MA) that have quite a stock this time of year… and that I’m glad the person related to me never bought me one.

I love the looks on the modes’ faces in the pictures you chose, Angie. They all 3 look like they aren’t too sure about this sweater….fakey or unenthusiastic smiles. Maybe I’m just projecting?

Oh, I wanted to add that the holiday sweatshirt is even more prevalent among the older folks I know than the holiday sweater. Better or worse?

Happy holidays everyone!

I would never be caught dead in one, but I thought my grandmother was sweet and cute in hers. It made her feel festive in her older years when she could no longer do much to help the family celebrate like she did for so many years.

She died day before yesterday at 96, and believe me, I would dearly love to see her sitting in my kitchen tonight in that old glittery snowman sweater. Perspective is everything, my friends.

Haha, you’re definitely not in denial Maya

And Lynn, I’m so sorry for your loss. Your grandmother sounds like she was a lovely lady.

Only as a joke for parties around Richmond, VA… which I don’t appreciate. Who wants to go to a party looking like hell when half the fun is getting dressed up?

I’ve seen hardly any this year at all (I live in the DC area). And for that I am thankful. I love Christmas and wish to celebrate the season in every way possible–just not with a holiday themed sweater.:)

I have not seem many reindeer on sweaters (Bridget Jones Diary-ugh!)this year either in the Boston area. No offence to those who own them.
I did wear a crystal snowflake brooch on my shoulder of my coat to church this year. I wanted to wear it and it is fairly delicate. You would not see it with my scarf and the collar of my coat so on the shoulder it went.
My mother use do things like this all the time… She always said ” you should be remembered when leaving a room as much as when you enter one ” Fashion was a 360 degree canvas to be played with for her. I love the memories of her personal style

I’m sorry to hear about your granny, Lynn. May she rest in peace.

Sounds like your Mum was wise woman, Kellee. I love her “360 degrees walking canvas” analogy.

Lynn,
My condolences to you and your family.

I also live in Seattle, and it’s not really a trend here. My aunt wears one, but in a slightly self-conscious, jokey way. Plus, she’s a first grade teacher, so she can get away with it at work!