The ugly Christmas sweater has a problem: it’s supposed to be silly, but you still want to look good in the party photos. The good news is that it’s easy to do both.
The best ugly Christmas sweater outfit ideas keep the sweater as the star and make everything else simple. Fitted bottoms, neat shoes and a few polished details turn a goofy knit into a cute outfit.
Here are 10 ugly Christmas sweater outfits that actually look cute, from classic red Fair Isle to dressed-up metallic knits.
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In This Guide
How to Style an Ugly Christmas Sweater
A few simple rules make a novelty sweater look chic:
- Keep the bottom half plain. Black jeans, dark denim or a solid skirt let the sweater be the focus.
- Balance the fit. A big, boxy sweater looks best with slim jeans or leggings. A cropped sweater suits high-waisted bottoms.
- Add one polished detail. Gold earrings, a neat bag or good boots show that the silly sweater was a choice.
- Choose quality. A soft knit with a fun pattern looks much better than a thin, scratchy one.
Wearlyst Tip: If a sweater has lots of details, such as pom-poms or sequins, skip the statement necklace. Let the knit do the talking.
1. Classic Red: Fair Isle Sweater + Black Jeans
This is the traditional holiday sweater look, and it’s hard to get wrong. A red Fair Isle knit looks festive but still tasteful.
Wear it with slim black jeans, black ankle boots and gold earrings. Keep your hair simple and your makeup bright.
Best for: Office sweater days and family parties.
2. Reindeer Plaid: Novelty Sweater + Plaid Skirt
Mix a playful sweater with a classic pattern and it looks like a plan. A reindeer knit and red plaid are both very Christmas.
Pair a navy reindeer sweater with a red plaid pleated mini, black tights and loafers.
Best for: Holiday parties where you want a little extra fun.
3. Cropped Sparkle: Sequin Sweater + High-Waisted Jeans
A cropped sweater with sequin trim feels modern, and it’s the right choice if you don’t want bulk around your middle.
Wear a cropped green sweater with high-waisted light jeans and white sneakers for a bright, casual look.
Best for: Ugly sweater parties and casual get-togethers.
4. Pom-Pom Knit: Cream Sweater + White Jeans
Pom-poms are the most fun “ugly” detail, and cream keeps them looking cute and not messy.
Pair a cream oversized sweater with red pom-poms with white jeans and tan ankle boots for a snowy, soft look.
Best for: Daytime holiday events and photos.
5. Sweater Dress: Snowflake Knit + Knee-High Boots
A Christmas sweater dress is one piece and done. It’s cozy, flattering and looks less costume-like than a regular novelty sweater.
Wear a forest green snowflake knit dress with black opaque tights and knee-high boots.
Best for: Family dinners and holiday gatherings. See our Christmas party outfit ideas for more.
6. Preppy Vest: Sweater Vest + Collared Shirt
A holiday sweater vest over a crisp white shirt is the neatest way to wear a novelty knit. It’s cute, school-picture preppy.
Layer a red patterned vest over a white collared shirt and add a grey pleated mini, tights and loafers. For more skirt ideas, see our pleated skirt outfits for winter.
Best for: Office holiday days and school events.
7. Snowman Cardigan: Novelty Cardigan + Leggings
A cardigan is an easy way to wear a silly design, because you can open it or button it depending on your mood.
Layer an ivory snowman cardigan over a plain black tee, with black leggings and white sneakers.
Best for: Teachers, school parties and relaxed days.
8. Dressed Up: Metallic Knit + Satin Skirt
Who says a holiday sweater can’t go to a nice party? Pair a shimmery knit with satin and it looks like an evening outfit.
Wear a gold metallic-thread sweater with a champagne satin midi skirt and heeled ankle boots.
Best for: Dressier holiday dinners and office parties.
9. Edgy Holiday: Graphic Sweater + Leather Leggings
If you like a cooler style, wear your funny sweater with leather and boots. The contrast makes it feel ironic and chic.
Try a grey graphic sweater with black faux leather leggings and combat boots.
Best for: Bar nights and friends’ parties.
10. Bows and Denim: Cream Bow Sweater + Straight Jeans
Bows are one of the biggest holiday trends, and a sweater covered in ribbons is the cute answer to the ugly sweater.
Wear a cream sweater with red bow appliques with straight blue jeans and brown loafers.
Best for: Anyone who wants festive without the full novelty look.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Outfit Ideas: Frequently Asked Questions
What do you wear with an ugly Christmas sweater?
Slim jeans, leggings, a plain skirt or a satin skirt all work. Keep the bottom half simple so the sweater is the star.
How do you make an ugly Christmas sweater look cute?
Choose a good fit, pair it with polished shoes and accessories, and keep the rest of the outfit neutral. Gold earrings and neat hair make a big difference.
What shoes go with an ugly Christmas sweater?
Ankle boots, loafers, white sneakers and knee-high boots all work well, depending on how dressy the party is.
Can you wear a Christmas sweater to work?
Usually yes, especially on an ugly sweater day. Pair it with trousers or a skirt, and choose a sweater that is fun but not offensive.
Where can you find ugly Christmas sweaters?
Online stores, department stores and thrift shops all carry them. Thrifting is a great way to find a funny sweater without paying much.
The Takeaway: Be Silly, Look Great
The best ugly Christmas sweater outfit ideas are simple: one loud knit, a clean base, good shoes. You’ll be the one in the photos everyone wants to share.
Looking for something cozier to wear at home? See our Christmas pajamas for women.
Wearlyst Style Note: Loud sweater, quiet bottoms, polished details.
