If you haven’t gotten an invite to an ugly holiday sweater party, it’s probably just a matter of minutes. Make the cheesy tradition cute! Animal sweaters and tees have been really trendy this year, so use that to your advantage. Don’t just take the traditional snowflake, candy cane, etc. route – pulling on a sweater is a statement of your personality as much as it is for warmth, so don’t be blah (personally, I love the owl best).

Markus Lupfer Ice Cream Sequined Merino Wool Sweater: Icy winter, ice cream – there’s a connection there somewhere. And cute cones are made even more fun with sequins! On Net-a-Porter for $485.

Lucien Pellat-Finet Chihuahua Sweater: This cashmere sweater will set you back about as much as a real prize-winning Chihuahua, but at least this one won’t yap at you! At Barney New York for $2,695.

Tibi Penguin-Intarsia Knitted Sweater: Be a snowbird with this precious little penguin knit – it’s a perfect fit for the holidays, but will stay cool well into the next season. Exclusively on Net-a-Porter for $375.

Banjo & Matilda Star-Intarsia Cashmere Sweater: If you’re still a little wary of trying out the novelty sweater, start slow with this simple star pattern. On Net-a-Porter for $345.

Isabel Marant Ètoile Owl on Cotton Jacquard Knit Sweater: This sweater won’t make it in time for the party, but better late than never they say. Pre-order on Luisa via Roma for $375.