With the recent change in weather and the upcoming holidays, people’s wardrobes have inevitably shifted to cozier, comfier, and warmer clothes to embrace the winter season.
Besides the functional winter gear, many of these wardrobes include fun traditional holiday themed items. Ranging from matching family pjs, themed slippers and even festive socks, holiday attires are a great way to express your festive spirit in a fun and cheery way. English teacher Ms. Gallo explains how for more casual and everyday attire, playing with textures and colors are a great way to carry out the spirit, “I often wear clothing with velvet textures, red and green fabrics.”
Among these common seasonal apparels no item of clothing brings controversy like the classic “ugly sweater.” Originating in British Canada, the ugly sweater is often covered with fireplaces, whimsical lights and Christmas characters, which evolved from “jingle bell sweaters”.
The ugly sweater has been a gaudy staple since the 1950s, and its popularity has only increased. The attendance of an ugly sweater party, usually hosted for holiday office parties, family events, or gatherings of friends, can be seen as an essential, though ironic, holiday activity for many families.
While there are some who find the tradition humorous or as their “favorite part of the holiday season,” Ms. Gallo further explains, “there are others who find it tacky and forced.” While sophomore Matilda Giles believes that “ugly sweaters are a way to be ironic on a traditionally serious holiday,” 8th grader Avery, would rather “dress up in a simple holiday outfit with a formal sweater.”
Other holiday clothing traditions such as holiday themed pajamas have grown recent popularity. Consisting of similar prints to ugly sweaters, holiday themed pajamas are often plaid or striped, decorated with Christmas trees, reindeers or snowmen.
Lately stores have been providing matching pajama sets, a growing trend on social media, which can be worn between family members, partners and friends. With many seasonal customs such as baking, decorating a tree, and watching movies, wearing pajamas can enhance the coziness and spirit when participating in festivities.
However, this trend is often debated. Although 10th grader Kelsi Tirado enjoys how her family and her “wear matching pajamas” while watching movies and opening presents, 7th grader Max finds the situation a little different. “I despise having to wear my pajamas with my siblings,” however is forced to by his parents.
Holiday attire related traditions are often more meaningful when created within your family. 10th grader Gabriel Cuadros’ family has to “wear green on Christmas or else you get pinched!”
Sparking nostalgia and connecting, clothing traditions are a great way to spend time with family and friends throughout the season while still expressing your own personal style. Regardless of differing opinions, choosing more festive clothing options will often ensure cheerful and fun holiday season