An "ugly Christmas sweater" is a festive garment typically worn during the holiday season. These sweaters are characterized by their bright colors, bold patterns, and often humorous or kitschy designs featuring Santa Claus, reindeer, snowflakes, or Christmas trees. They have become popular for holiday parties and gatherings, where wearing them is seen as a fun tradition. The trend of wearing ugly Christmas sweaters began in the 1980s and has since evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Many people participate in ugly sweater parties, where they showcase their most outrageous designs. Some even engage in competitions to see who can wear the ugliest sweater, adding to the festive spirit.