Holiday Sweaters Add Fashion to Function

The holiday season is here, and it's time to get festive. People celebrate by making special meals, baking sweet treats, watching classic movies and dressing up in their holiday best. Why should humans have all the fun, though? Your dog can look just as festive. Whether you have a special celebration for which to dress up or you're just sitting by the fireplace with your pooch, you can find an outfit for the occasion. This is a good time of year to stock up on holiday pet fashion, as many seasonal clothing products are on sale. Here are some canine outfits to contemplate.

Ski Lodge Fashion

You may or may not be spending the holidays with your dog at a ski resort, but he can certainly look the part. Snow-capped mountains, cozy cabins and logs crackling in the fireplace conjure images of warm Fair Isle sweaters. A stylish sweater with snowflakes and hearts is cheerful and bright against the dreary weather, and you can choose pink or blue . The sweaters are comfortable, 100% cotton.

If you're waiting up for jolly old St. Nick to appear, your dog can greet him in a Fair Isle sweater with Santa faces . Pom noses are a delightful detail on this acrylic, easy-care sweater.

How about a handmade sweater crafted from organic wool? Made by artisan knitters following Fair Trade guidelines, it adds South American flair with a colorful pattern. The yarn is dyed with natural plant dyes.

A sweater dress with a classic Fair Isle pattern might be just right for a special occasion. If you don't have one to attend, create one at home for you and your pup. A layered ruffle skirt and roll neck add detail to a 100% acrylic garment. If you're looking for something more dashing, a sophisticated, shawl-collar knit sweater might fit the bill. A faux wooden button and leather tabs add dapper detail to this 100% acrylic sweater.

Ugly Sweater Contest

While the term "ugly sweater" is undoubtedly a matter of opinion, your dog can look terrific no matter what you choose to name the fashion statement. He will be ready to compete alongside any canine or human with a sweater selected just for him. A combed cotton reindeer sweater brims with festivity, patterned with reindeer, candy canes and snowflakes.

If your dog loves Santa, a bright green sweater with a Santa face may be the perfect holiday outfit for him. The pom accent on Santa's hat and the leash hole are extra touches. A short turtleneck is designed for style and warmth without getting in the way. For pooches that are always ready to lend a paw, another Santa-themed sweater features white stripes against a green background and embroidered details that say, "Santa's Little Helper."

Ugly sweaters are all about patterns, stripes and lots of colors. A chevron pattern on a colorful candy-cane sweater fits the description with red, brown, blue and turquoise. An embroidered candy cane accents the back of the sweater with delightful contrast. If you prefer traditional red and green, an ugly sweater featuring snowflakes, bright stripes and a large bow is a fun choice.

High Style

Whether your dog is celebrating from home or parading down the sidewalk wearing her finest leash, New Year's Eve parties are full of sparkle and glam. A white sweater with a faux mink collar is the perfect accessory for ringing in the new year. Rhinestone accents on a satin bow add a glittery touch.

If the occasion calls for a little black sweater, one accented with rhinestones and a crown pattern should work nicely. An angora knit blend ensures the sweater is both soft and luxurious.

Speaking of softness, a red velour dog shirt with a furry collar and sleeves is warm and snuggly despite its high-style look — a sparkling snowflake accents the back, along with a D-ring for pet tags. The contrasting colors will look striking in paparazzi photos.

A black-tie affair leaves no question about the appropriate outfit. A black tuxedo sweater satisfies the dress code for your dog. The bow tie is satin and black buttons complete the details against a knit tuxedo pattern in black and white.

Mad for Plaid

Buffalo plaid is always in style. A handmade wool sweater in buffalo plaid keeps your pup warm and in classic fashion. The sweater is knit by hand from organic, plant-dyed wool using Fair Trade guidelines. A pocket on the back might be a good place to stash a treat. For a lighter-weight alternative, a stretch fleece sweater in buffalo plaid works well as an added layer under a coat or by itself around the house.

Tartan, another classic plaid pattern, is a great choice for holiday photos with the family. It's dressy without feeling stuffy. Also knit by hand from organic wool, your dog will stay warm this season in sweaters available in white or navy tartan. Oxford plaid in red, black and white is another festive choice. An acrylic sweater with a stylish roll neck and functional leash hole will keep your dog warm on winter walks.

No matter what style you and your dog choose this season, a holiday dog sweater adds fashion to function. Dogs can use an added layer of protection and warmth on wintry days, especially ones who are small, elderly, have little body fat or a thin coat of hair. Your dog can look and feel good in the perfect holiday sweater. Just be sure to get some pictures.