Camel sweater (Marshalls-$20): BYE

Although holiday sweaters are also referred to as ugly sweaters, that doesn’t mean they are supposed to be uncomfortable too. I’m going to skip on purchasing this sweater solely because the sweater is just plain uncomfortable. It’s itchy and also runs small. Living in an area where the winters are quite brutal, the ability to layer clothes plays a key part in staying warm.

Animal crewneck (Target-$20): BUY

No matter how comfortable a sweater may be, it doesn’t top the comfort that comes with wearing a sweatshirt. Opting for a holiday sweatshirt, like this animal crewneck can be a perfect alternative to the itchiness that frequently comes with sweaters. Not only is this crewneck lined with fleece to keep you warm and cozy, but it also features some animals all decked out for the holidays. If the furry faces don’t persuade you to buy it, the sweatshirt comes ready with pre-installed colorful lights to make this hoodie the life of the party.

Hooded sweater (Marshalls-$25): BUY

The festive sweater offers a comfortable, oversized feel, without feeling like you are drowning in the top. Additionally, the Christmas tree features real jingle bells that can provide the instrumentals for holiday tunes wherever you go. Unlike most sweaters that just have a design on the front, the festivity is kept alive in the back with a decorated hood featuring a gold star. The unique design is perfect for catching the attention of others and providing a conversation starter.

Llama sweater (Target-$28): BUY

For some reason, in the past couple of years, llamas have risen up into the spotlight to become the next trend, and I can’t really explain why. Unsurprisingly, this new trend is being incorporated into holiday sweater designs this holiday season. Nothing else says “Happy Holidays” quite like a llama decked out in winter gear standing next to a Christmas tree made up entirely of sequins. The llama design and excessive sequins make the sweater overall distasteful, and I would not recommend purchasing. 

ELF t-shirt (Marshalls-$8): BYE

A t-shirt doesn’t necessarily make for the most practical article of clothing when faced with wind chills and snow. Normally, I would suggest just layering the shirt over a long-sleeved shirt, but I just don’t feel like it’s worth it when a variety of other options exist for holiday shirts that actually cover your arms. Additionally, I think at this point we’ve seen so many items over the years with Buddy the elf that it’s time to change things up a little bit. Because of the outdated and impractical style, this Elf t-shirt would not be good use of money. 

The Office sweater (Target-$30): BUY

I’m going to admit I hold some bias because of my love for The Office. Immediately, I rated this sweater as a BUY. Even so, the sweater is very minimalistic in terms of holiday decor on the sweater and can remain circulating in your wardrobe throughout the year, not just when the holidays roll around. Although I have seen The Office themed holiday sweaters with much more creativity behind them, I still think the simple design is worth it.