National Swag Day

Young adult with trendy outfit, rocking a bold accessory, striking a confident pose in a vibrant urban setting.. — National swag day illustration

Get ready to bring out your swag, because it's National Swag Day! This is the day when we celebrate style, confidence, and all things cool. From fashion to attitude, it's time to unleash your inner swagger and show the world what you're made of.

When is Swag Day?

It's national swag day on the 1st June.

The Origins of National Swag Day

While the internet buzzes with mentions of National Swag Day, the true origins of this day are shrouded in mystery. Some believe it all started when a group of stylish internet aficionados decided to create a day dedicated to celebrating the art of swag. Others claim it was born out of a need to remind everyone to embrace their unique style and rock it with confidence.

Regardless of its origins, National Swag Day has become wildly popular online, with 201 mentions detected. People from all walks of life join in the fun, sharing their swaggy outfits and inspiring others to do the same.

How to Celebrate National Swag Day

Celebrating National Swag Day is as easy as putting on your favorite outfit and embracing your inner stylish diva or divo. It's a day to showcase your unique style and let your confidence shine.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Host a fashion show with your friends or loved ones, complete with a catwalk and fabulous prizes for the most swagtastic outfits.
Try out a new hairstyle or experiment with different accessories to pump up your swag game.
Share your favorite fashion influencers on social media and inspire others with their swagtastic looks.
Organize a swag-themed potluck where everyone brings their favorite dishes to share. Extra swag points for creatively named dishes that match the theme!

Did You Know?

In honor of National Swag Day, here's a fun fact for you: Did you know that the word 'swag' originally referred to stolen goods or booty? In the 1960s, it took on a new meaning to describe an air of confidence and style. The word has come a long way from its shady beginnings, and now it's all about embracing your unique brand of cool.

History behind the term 'Swag'

1520

Origins of 'Swag'

The term 'swag' originates from the old English word 'swagian,' which means to move or sway. In the 16th century, the word 'swag' was used to describe a sailor's lurching movements as they walked on a ship's deck.

1856

Start of popular use

The term 'swag' originally derives from the British slang word 'swaggie', which was used to refer to a person who traveled on foot carrying their belongings. It was commonly used in Australia during the 19th century to describe itinerant workers, often swagmen, who traveled the country in search of employment. These workers would carry their belongings rolled up in a blanket, which they called a 'swag.'

1915

Origin of the term 'swag'

The term 'swag' originated in the early 1900s and was initially used by thieves and burglars as slang for stolen goods or loot. It referred to the swaying movement of a thief's booty as they walked away swiftly with their stolen goods.

1940s-1950s

Jazz and African-American slang

During the 1940s and 1950s, the term 'swag' gained popularity within African-American culture and jazz communities. Jazz musicians and enthusiasts started using the term to describe someone who possessed a confident and stylish demeanor. It was often associated with charisma, coolness, and having a fashionable appearance.

1960s

Hip-hop and 'swag'

In the 1960s, the term 'swag' gained popularity in African American communities, particularly within the emerging hip-hop culture. It became synonymous with style, confidence, and a unique personal flair. Hip-hop artists used the term to describe their fashionable outfits and overall cool demeanor, bringing it into mainstream usage.

1800s

Origin of 'Swag' as Stolen Goods

In the 19th century, the term 'swag' took on a new meaning. It became associated with stolen goods or illicitly obtained items. Criminals would refer to their loot as 'swag,' which added an element of mystique and allure to the term.

1990s

Digital revolution and 'swag'

With the rise of the internet and digital communication in the 1990s, the term 'swag' took on new meanings. It became associated with promotional merchandise or freebies given away at events or conferences. 'Swag' referred to the branded items like t-shirts, pens, or stickers that companies handed out to increase their visibility and create a lasting impression.

1990s

Hip-hop and street culture

In the 1990s, the term 'swag' experienced a resurgence in popularity within hip-hop and street culture. It was used as a synonym for 'style' or 'swagger' and referred to a person's overall confidence, attitude, and personal style. It became associated with the clothing, accessories, and overall aesthetic that conveyed a sense of street credibility and authenticity.

1920s

Swag as Style and Confidence

During the 1920s, 'swag' began to take on a new connotation. It was associated with style, confidence, and a certain level of self-assuredness. This shift in meaning reflected the cultural changes of the Roaring Twenties, where individuals embraced a more rebellious and carefree attitude.

1960s

Swag in Hip-Hop Culture

In the 1960s and 1970s, 'swag' became an integral part of hip-hop culture. It was used to describe a person's sense of style, confidence, and overall demeanor. Swag was associated with being cool, charismatic, and having a unique sense of fashion.

2000s

Internet slang and viral meme

During the 2000s, the term 'swag' took on a new meaning within online communities. It became a popular internet slang term used to describe someone who exuded a confident and stylish persona. Additionally, 'swag' gained further popularity through the viral internet meme '#SWAG,' where it was often humorously used to describe someone's perceived coolness or impressive qualities.

2010s

Social media and 'swag'

In the 2010s, social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram played a significant role in popularizing the term 'swag.' It evolved to encompass a broader sense of confidence, style, and attitude. People began using 'swag' to describe someone's overall coolness, individuality, or unique sense of personal style, often showcased through fashion choices and self-expression online.

Present day

Mainstream colloquialism

Today, the term 'swag' has become a mainstream colloquialism, widely used across various social contexts. It has evolved to encompass a broad range of meanings, including personal style, confidence, influence, and overall charisma. 'Swag' is frequently used in popular culture, music, fashion, and advertising, often associated with a trendy and stylish lifestyle.

2000s

Swag as Branded Merchandise

In the early 2000s, 'swag' took on yet another meaning. It became associated with branded merchandise given out by companies at events or as promotional material. These items, often featuring a company's logo or slogan, were seen as trendy and desirable among consumers.

Present Day

Swag as Confidence and Swagger

Today, 'swag' is commonly used to describe a person's confidence, style, and overall attitude. It has evolved to represent an individual's sense of self-assuredness and the way they carry themselves. 'Swag' has become a catch-all term that encompasses elements of fashion, charisma, and personal branding.

Did you know?

Did you know that the word 'swag' originally referred to stolen goods or booty? In the 1960s, it took on a new meaning to describe an air of confidence and style.