Top 10 Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl Outfit Ideas to Stand Out This Season
When it’s the most wonderful time of the year, there’s no better way to celebrate than by gathering friends for a festive night out at Bar Crawl LIVE’s Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl! Whether you're diving into your first bar crawl or you're a seasoned holiday sweater pro, planning your outfit is half the fun. The best part? There are endless ways to make your look unique and unforgettable! Here are 10 outfit ideas that’ll make sure you stand out, have fun, and keep the holiday spirit alive all night long.
1. Classic Ugly Sweater with a Twist
If you want to keep things traditional but with a twist, go for a classic Christmas sweater with extra flair. Think bold, over-the-top designs featuring reindeer, Santa, or snowmen—then add unique touches like pom-poms, LED lights, or even sound effects to bring it to life.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a Santa hat or a cozy holiday scarf to give your look that extra holiday warmth.
2. DIY Garland and Ornaments Sweater
Looking to go big on holiday spirit? Try creating a DIY sweater decked out with garland and mini ornaments. Wrap yourself in green tinsel to transform into a walking Christmas tree, then add small ornaments for a festive pop of color.
Pro Tip: Battery-operated fairy lights are the perfect finishing touch to make your “tree” shine all night long!
3. Ugly Sweater Dress
For those who want to keep warm while adding a chic twist, ugly sweater dresses are a festive way to stand out. From candy cane stripes to gingerbread designs, sweater dresses make it easy to go big on style without sacrificing coziness.
Pro Tip: Pair with holiday-themed leggings or tights to stay warm and match the holiday vibe from head to toe.
4. Movie-Themed Sweater (Elf, Home Alone, etc.)
Love holiday movies? Choose a sweater featuring quotes or characters from holiday classics like Elf, Home Alone, or The Grinch. A Buddy the Elf sweater or a “Merry Christmas, Ya Filthy Animal” shirt will be instant crowd-pleasers.
Pro Tip: Accessorize with themed props, like Buddy’s elf hat or reindeer antlers for the full effect.
5. Matching Sweaters for Couples or Groups
Coordinating outfits make it easy to spot your group and create some memorable photo ops! Go with matching ugly sweaters that feature holiday themes, funny slogans, or even characters that go together, like “Naughty” and “Nice” or “Santa’s Helpers.”
Pro Tip: Try matching accessories, like mini Santa hats or jingle bells, to add a playful, festive touch.
6. The “Over-the-Top Accessories” Sweater
Sometimes it’s all about the accessories! Start with a simple sweater, then load up on holiday props like reindeer antler headbands, elf shoes, candy cane earrings, and tinsel scarves. The more festive accessories, the better!
Pro Tip: Bigger is better! Holiday-themed sunglasses, oversized candy canes, or holiday socks can take this look to the next level.
7. DIY Meme Sweater
Ugly sweater bar crawls are the perfect place to showcase a funny meme sweater! From holiday puns to classic memes, there’s no shortage of ways to make your look a conversation starter. Try designs like “Santa, Define Good” or print your favorite meme for an easy DIY.
Pro Tip: Use iron-on transfers for a quick DIY sweater project that lets your creativity shine.
8. Ugly Sweater Vest Over a Festive Long-Sleeve Shirt
For a twist on the classic sweater, try an ugly sweater vest over a holiday-themed long-sleeve shirt. This layered look lets you mix and match patterns and is perfect for keeping you warm without overheating.
Pro Tip: Add brooches or festive pins for even more holiday flair, and don’t forget your jingle bells!
9. “Interactive” Ugly Sweater (Tic-Tac-Toe, Beer Pong, etc.)
For the life of the party, go with an interactive ugly sweater. A mini tic-tac-toe game, a beer pong setup, or even a tiny stocking for holiday “tips” can make your sweater a hit with the crowd.
Pro Tip: Make sure the materials are sturdy enough to hold up all night and add a sturdy strap or Velcro if you’re bringing game pieces along.
10. Vintage Thrift Sweater for a Retro Look
Sometimes the best ugly sweaters are the ones you find in the thrift shop. Look for retro holiday sweaters with classic holiday themes, from quirky Santa designs to nostalgic patterns that scream '80s or '90s Christmas. Each one is unique and sure to turn heads!
Pro Tip: Go for a full vintage look with retro holiday pins, knee-high socks, or a traditional Santa hat.
Wrapping It Up (Get It?)
Ready to showcase your ugly sweater style? Grab your friends and bring your best holiday look to Bar Crawl LIVE’s Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl! Whether you're rocking a DIY masterpiece or a funny holiday movie theme, there's no better place to show it off than at our upcoming crawl. Click here to find an Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl near you and make this holiday season one to remember!