THEY’RE EVERYWHERE THIS TIME OF YEAR

Hometown Moments & Memories THEY’RE EVERYWHERE THIS TIME OF YEAR 27 It’s No Doubt the Christmas Sweater Has Everyone Talking This Time of Year!

What’s so alluring about the Christmas Sweater? Well, for starters it’s hard not to do a double take and say “Wow, that’s one sweater you got on!” Adorned with beads, bells, and let’s not forget the images of Santa that light up – well they’re sort of trendy. So how did these sweaters become the focus point for holiday parties, contests, and just good ‘ol holiday fun?

We have the British to thank! In the 1980s, Andy Williams appeared in what is known as the “Christmas jumper” during his TV Christmas specials. He started the trend and soon others like Val Doonican followed this latest fashion statement. Still set in the UK, who could forget the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer turtleneck sweater worn by Colin Firth in Bridget Jones’ Diary?

But back home (and back in

this century) the Christmas sweater still prevails, as seen on television, where most fads begin. In Ugly Betty, America Ferrera sported a snowman sweater with a three-dimensional string of holiday lights. Even the Dunphy’s of Modern

Family are all shown wearing one as they

Skype with distant relatives. Amazon reported an increase in Christmas sweater sales of 600% in 2011. This is in large part due to the increase in “Christmas Sweater” parties. It’s a great way for everyone to get together and either admire or laugh at the sweaters. The entertainment is virtually free! So, whether you find Christmas sweaters to be fashionable or just plain old ugly – there’s no doubt they definitely make a statement, especially when they light up, make music, and have motorized characters on the front!