Skip to content

9 Snazzy Alternatives to the Ugly Holiday Sweater

Subvert your festivities with knitwear that you’ll actually want to wear.

By: Alex KuchDate: 2023-12-07
Colin Firth in Movie Still: Talking in Ugly Christmas Sweater, Dark Green with Reindeer Graphic, Red Wine in Hand

Get ready for the festive season without succumbing to the cliché of the "ugly holiday sweater." Some may revel in it, but let's face it: the intentional embrace of ugly ironic attire feels passé. Why waste money on something garish and one-dimensional when you can invest in clothing that transcends the holiday buzz and stays stylish throughout winter?


Here are nine stylish alternatives to the tired tradition of the ugly holiday sweater. These choices will not only defy the seasonal norms but also ensure you stand out in any gathering, making a statement beyond the festivities.


Polo Ralph Lauren Black Knit Crewneck Sweater: Cotton-Cashmere Blend, Signature Polo Bear

Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Bear Intarsia Knit Sweater


If it starts with “Polo” and ends with “Lauren”, you know it’s going to be a good holiday. Crafted from heavy cotton with a hint of cashmere, this crewneck sports the brand’s iconic Polo Bear in a righteously festive outfit for the holiday season.

Benson Chester Vintage Patterned Knit Sweater: Classic Fit, Crew Neck, Ribbed Knit

Benson Chester Vintage Patterned Knit Sweater


Benson is known for making clothes that feel like home, and what’s better than spending the holidays with your favourite people in a Fair Isle sweater.

NEUW Black and Green Wool-Blend Sweater with Timeless Stripes

NEUW Strummer Striped Wool-Blend Sweater


Fuzzy, patterned, and audacious—what is an ugly holiday sweater, anyway? Reminiscent of a sweater Kurt Cobain might have worn, this striped piece by NEUW is for the grunge-heads at the function.

Settefili Extra Fine Merino Wool Cardigan: Elegant and Cozy Layering Essential

Settefili Extra Fine Merino Wool Cardigan


We’re big believers that the right knit can make you feel like a new man. Confide in this dark green Settefili cardigan to ease you through long days and cold nights.

Moncler Jacquard Monogram Sweater: Black & White Cotton-Blend, Logo Print

Moncler Logoed Cotton Sweatshirt

Throwback knits radiate “home for the holidays” energy. Channel your inner Jimmy Stewart in A Wonderful Life with this jacquard sweater Moncler.

Marni Fuzzy Logo Crewneck: Luxury Off-Body Comfort for Men

Marni Fuzzy Embroidered Logo Crewneck Sweater


One of our more eccentric designers for fall/winter 2023—and one of the industry’s hottest—Marni brings a take-it-or-leave-it vibe to the table. This oversized pullover is finished with a grandma-approved wordmark embroidery across the chest.

Balmain Mid-Blue Mohair Sweater: Retro Logo Print, Off-Body Comfort

Balmain Retro Logo Print Mohair-Blend Sweater


Rambunctious, yet alluring. Feast your eyes on this indulgent mohair sweater by Balmain and take the festivities to another level.

Loro Piana Snow Wander Vintage Cashmere Mock Neck Sweater


This is quite simply the king of holiday knitwear: cashmere, cozy camel, and a zip mock neck. No one will even think of calling this ugly.

Brunello Cucinelli Cashmere Collection: Fair Isle Sweater in Grey, Beige, White with Classic Pattern

Brunello Cucinelli Cashmere Collection Fair Isle Sweater


Coming full circle to the Fair Isle pullover, no one does it better than Brunello Cucinelli. Crafted from pure cashmere, this is a legacy piece that will be welcoming to wear for a lifetime of winters—and holiday dinners—ahead.


TAGS:#Style Advice,#trends,#sweaters & knits,