Love them or loath them, ugly Christmas sweater parties are more popular than ever. These silly sweaters undoubtably present a sartorial statement—but perhaps not the kind of message we'd like to share on a regular basis. Rather than root around Value Village in search for a hideous pullover that you'll only wear once, we think it's time to give these ugly ducklings a makeover. Purchasing a holiday sweater that will go the distance in your winter wardrobe should be one part kitschy and one part whimsical. A great way to get a little bit of whimsy into your knitwear is with a healthy peppering of embellishment. Another must is a bold graphic print. Skip Santa and try bows, candy canes or flow flakes—and when in doubt put a penguin on it. Shop these not-so-ugly sweaters:

1. Navy knit candy cane jumper, $35, dorothyperkins.com.
2. Silver snow flake embellished sweater, $49, chicwish.com.
3. Bow sweater, $64, abercrombie.ca.
4. Pink penguin Christmas jumper, 54, asos.com.