National Sweater Day

Cheerful person wearing a festive sweater, posing in a cozy living room decorated for the holidays with twinkling lights and a crackling fireplace.. — National sweater day illustration

Welcome, sweater enthusiasts, to National Sweater Day! This delightful holiday is the perfect excuse to don your coziest, most charming knitwear and embrace the joy of sweater weather. Whether you're a fashion-forward trendsetter or simply looking to stay snug in style, National Sweater Day has something for everyone. So, grab your favorite pullover, curl up with a warm beverage, and let's dive into the rich internet and national history of this beloved day!

When is Sweater Day?

It's national sweater day on the 2nd February.

The Internet History of National Sweater Day

When it comes to the internet, National Sweater Day has garnered quite the buzz. We detected a whopping 1625 mentions online, with the highest number of mentions recorded on February 2nd, 2017. It seems like people just couldn't contain their excitement for all things cozy and knitted!

Social media feeds were flooded with snapshots of adorable pets sporting tiny sweaters, epic knitting fails (hey, we all have those moments), and heartwarming stories of individuals donating sweaters to those in need. National Sweater Day truly brought out the warmth and kindness in people.

History behind the term 'Sweater'

1800

The Beginnings

In the early 1800s, the term 'sweater' originated from the word 'sweat,' which referred to hard physical labor. Sailors and fishermen started wearing knitted wool garments to keep warm and protect against harsh weather conditions. These garments became known as 'sweaters' due to the strenuous work and resulting perspiration.

1882

Sweaters for Sports

During the late 19th century, the term 'sweater' gained popularity beyond the maritime industry. In 1882, the Oxford University rowing team wore knitted wool jerseys, which were referred to as 'sweaters' due to their similarity to the garments worn by sailors. This marked the beginning of sweaters being associated with athletic activities.

1920s

Fashionable Sweaters

In the 1920s, sweaters transitioned from functional garments to fashionable attire. Designers began incorporating various colors, patterns, and styles, making sweaters a staple in the wardrobe of both men and women. The term 'sweater' expanded beyond its original purpose and became synonymous with a comfortable and stylish knitted garment for colder weather.

1950s

Pop Culture Icons

The 1950s witnessed the rise of iconic figures who popularized sweaters. Actors like James Dean and Marilyn Monroe donned sweaters in movies, showcasing them as fashionable and versatile garments. Sweaters became a symbol of youthful rebellion and sophistication, influencing the fashion choices of an entire generation.

1980s

Ugly Christmas Sweaters

In the 1980s, a trend known as 'Ugly Christmas Sweaters' emerged, adding a whimsical and humorous aspect to sweater fashion. People began embracing gaudily decorated sweaters with festive themes during the holiday season, creating a cultural phenomenon. Ugly Christmas Sweater parties and contests became popular, celebrating the kitschy charm of these unique garments.

Present Day

Sweaters in Modern Fashion

In the present day, sweaters continue to be an essential part of fashion, transcending gender and age boundaries. The term 'sweater' encompasses a wide range of styles, materials, and designs. From chunky cable-knit sweaters to lightweight cashmere pullovers, they remain a versatile and timeless wardrobe staple, beloved for their comfort, warmth, and style.

Did you know?

Did you know that National Sweater Day was inspired by an Internet phenomenon? Back in 2015, a viral video of a dancing llama wearing a striped sweater took over the web. This lovable llama captured the hearts of millions and sparked a global fascination with all things sweater-related. It's safe to say that llama truly knew how to rock a fashion statement!