Funny Ugly Sweater Party Ideas and What to Wear

Why an ugly sweater party works

An ugly sweater party has the best ratio of effort to fun of any holiday event. Everyone dresses the same way, nobody takes themselves seriously, and the host gets a free theme. The tricky part is making it actually funny instead of just itchy. Here are funny ugly sweater party ideas, from planning to what to wear.

Plan the contest categories

A contest is what turns a dress-up night into a story. Give guests a short list of categories and a pile of scorecards, and let the room judge. A few that work well:

1. Ugliest overall. The classic. Lumpy yarn and clashing colors win.
2. Most festive effort. For anyone who clearly started in October.
3. Best homemade. Hot glue and craft supplies are allowed.
4. Most comfortable. For the guest who refuses to itch and wants credit for it.

Appoint a judge

Every party needs one person with a clipboard. The Ugly Sweater Contest Judge sweatshirt gives that person Fair Isle knit bands and two very honest scoring paddles, a 10 and a 2. It is also available as a hoodie and a tee, so the whole judging panel can match without anyone overheating.

What to wear when you refuse to itch

A real knit sweater can be warm, scratchy and expensive. A printed sweatshirt gets you the look without the itch. The Certified Cozy Fair Isle Christmas sweatshirt has a traditional pattern that reads as a proper holiday sweater from across the room. It is a smart pick for the guest who wants the theme and a normal body temperature.

Funny outfits that go beyond sweaters

• Wore the Antlers. Once. hoodie for the person who tried the costume and regretted it immediately.
• Christmas Starts When I Say So hoodie for the guest who has been decorating since October.
• Sweater On Sweater Off sweatshirt for the person who is already too warm.

These are not traditional knits, and that is the point. They are funny, easy to wear and they work at the party and afterward.

Host tips that make it better

• Send invitations two weeks ahead so people have time to shop or craft.
• Offer a prize for each category, even if it is a silly trophy.
• Have a spare accessory table for guests who forget, with tinsel, bows and felt antlers.
• Take the group photo early, before the sweaters come off.

Ordering for the party

Everything is printed to order in the US and usually arrives in 6 to 11 business days. For a party date, order at least two weeks ahead. Sizes run S to 3XL in unisex cuts with a roomy fit, and the size guide helps with sizing. For more festive picks, browse the New Arrivals collection or the hoodies and sweatshirts collection. See the shipping policy for delivery details.