FashBlog.com

By Brandi M. Seals

It seems like every year the stores fill with the requisite Christmas gear, clothes that reflect the holiday season. That way everyone can wear there Christmas cheer on December 25th. Instead of simply wearing red and green, people can get their hands on socks that sport Santa's face, a sweater covered if gift boxes, and underwear with ribbons and bows. There is something for everyone.

Socks
Socks are a major exception to my rule of wear non-theme clothes. I think if you really want to throw some cheer into an outfit, you might as well sport some Christmas socks. You can find them at just about any store that sells clothes during the winter time.

These little guys pack a series punch. They generally come in bright colors and feature over the top designs. I like images of Rudolph or candy canes. Santa gets too much time on everything else, so I like to do a little something different with the socks.

The best time to buy Christmas socks (or any other Christmas inspired gear) is after the holiday season. Whatever has not been sold at the height of the season suddenly gets a major discount as stores try to rid their inventory of seasonal items. Pick up a pair of Christmas socks around this time and you will generally save at least 50% off the cost.

Underwear
I think Christmas underwear is usually given as a gift. I do not know of anyone who buys them for themselves. I take that back, I know some that buy the clearanced out prints after the holiday season. But for the most part, I would say this cheery intimate apparel is given as a gift. If you have gotten a pair, you might as well wear them. Generally I am opposed to themed garments, but underwear is an exception. No one (except maybe your significant other) is ever going to see them so I say why not wear them.

Pajama Pants
Maybe you want to show a little Christmas cheer but do not want everyone and their brother to see it. Then, Christmas inspired pajama pants are for you. You can get the decorated PJ pants in flannel, cotton or even a silky material. The decision is up to you. You can go with traditional icons like Santa or wreathes. You could also opt for a less traditional look. I have seen pajama pants decorated with polar bears with red and white scarves and many other designs.

Sweaters
Christmas sweaters are the loudest I would say. You can overlook other items like socks, or miss out on someone's pajamas and underwear, but it is very hard to miss the loud, over the top Christmas sweater. It is no secret that I despise Christmas sweaters. I think they are generally horribly tacky and should never be worn. However, there are those out there that love them. I suppose I will never understand why but I am okay with that.

If you want everyone to know you are in the Christmas spirit, feel free to dig out that monstrosity from the back of the closet. The week before Christmas is the only time of year when it is appropriate to wear such a thing, so I suppose you should put it on if you have one.

If you are looking to buy a Christmas sweater and you refuse to take my advice about just wearing a red sweater, then I have a few tips for you. Look for a pattern that is not too loud. Stare at the sweater for a few minutes. If it makes you woozy, choose another design. Avoid all sweaters that have protrusions. Snowballs, gifts, or whatever design element being utilized should remain flat.

While writing this I came to the realization that these items are probably the only things that get a Christmas design. Think about it for a minute. Have you ever seen Christmas pants? I have not. How about a Christmas blouse? I have not seen one of those either. I guess there are tee shirts with Christmas designs but that is it. It is kind of strange how nothing else gets branded Christmas designs. I guess there are only a few things people like to have decorated up for the season.