A tacky Christmas suit is the over-the-top counterpart to the good old-fashioned Christmas outfit. Think bright red-green combinations, busy prints (reindeer, snowmen, candy canes), glitter accents, and accessories that are just a little too much. The result: a nod to the ugly Christmas sweater, but as a complete suit—perfect for drinks, office parties, and tacky Christmas get-togethers.

What makes a Santa suit “wrong”?

• Busy all-over prints : classic Christmas motifs (reindeer, snowflakes) or brightly kitsch.
• Contrasting colors : red, green, white—preferably all together.
• Shine & glitter : lurex, sequins or metallic details set the tone.
• Humor : Text, patches or playful details make it extra fun (and therefore funny).

How to choose the right fit

A tacky Christmas suit can stand out, but it should also be comfortable. Ideally, check these three points:

1. Shoulders & Lapel : The shoulder seam should fall at the shoulder point; the lapel should be flat, not open.
2. Sleeve and leg length : Sleeve just above the ball of the thumb; trousers over the shoe without a "waterfall of pleats".
3. Freedom of movement : You probably dance—choose a fabric with a little stretch or a relaxed fit.

Styling: from “funny” to “banger”

You can start subtly and scale up step by step to full-on failure:

• Level 1 – Clean but festive : suit + white shirt + simple Christmas pin.
• Level 2 – Ugly-chic : suit + Christmas shirt or turtleneck + festive socks.
• Level 3 – Full bad fashion : suit + tacky blouse + big necklace + flashy glasses.

Accessories that complete it

• Statement necklace (gold-colored or themed): extra bold, extra fun.
• Bad glasses : retro or over-the-top frames; work instantly in photos.
• Gift ribbon/bow : a wide bow on the jacket is wonderfully overdone.
• Socks : Christmas prints or glitter; make them stand out on purpose.

Outfit ideas

• Red suit + Christmas shirt with white sneakers → clean but festive.
• Green suit + glitter top + statement necklace → disco Christmas.
• All-over print + retro glasses → instant party look.

Material & comfort

Choose lightweight fabrics with a touch of elastane; they're more comfortable to wear and wrinkle less. With busy prints, small stains or crumbs are less noticeable (handy for drinks). Also nice: a breathable lining and an inside pocket for your phone or key card.

Washing & storage tips

• Read the label : some suits are only suitable for low temperature or hand washing.
• Wash inside out (if allowed) to keep prints looking good for longer.
• After the party, hang out : let moisture evaporate, brush away crumbs, steam light wrinkles.
• Storage : On a wide hanger with a garment bag; put accessories in a separate bag.

Common mistakes (and quick fixes)

• Too tight : sacrifice form, not freedom of movement—a bad look should remain fun.
• Too good : add one big accessory (necklace or glasses) for an instant upgrade.
• Too short : combine with cool Christmas socks so that it looks “intended”.

Smart shopping (selection)

Looking for the perfect base or finishing touch? Start here:

• Ugly Christmas sweaters
• Gold accents
• Sinterklaas costume (for theme mix or duo looks)

Bottom line: a tacky Santa suit is all about boldness and fun. Go for color, print, and sparkle—and add at least one accessory that takes things over the top. The tackier, the better (especially in photos).