Dear Matt,
My in-laws insist on hosting a fancy Christmas where everyone dresses up in their fine suits and dresses, full hair and makeup. It’s just a lot of work during a stressful time. I’d really like to just come in sweats and make them deal with it. Would that be rude? My husband thinks this would be rude, and as far as I can tell, most of the family enjoys this “tradition.”
Thanks so much,
Sweats For Life
Dear Sweats For Life,
I enjoy a nice sweatpant, especially in the colder months. But I do think this might be something you might just have to do!
I’m a firm believer in the “do what you want as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone” camp. But it almost feels like Grinch-Scrooge to attend dress-up Christmas so dressed-down. Is there a way for you to “dress up” without it being a whole affair? Maybe some leggings and a dress? Or even a nice jean situation? I think you can push back a bit on the super formalness.
A couple of questions for you to consider: how much does this mean to your husband? Does he make concessions for you? How many sacrifices do you each make for each other? I’d even ask are you strong enough to take passive aggressiveness from in-laws and family members who are dressed in tens and you’re in your sweats?
These situations to me involve more questions than just “can I wear sweatpants.” It’s about looking at the spent capital costs. No matter what you decide, I think you’ll not be perfectly satisfied with the results.
Personally, I’d wear decent-nice clothes and call it a day. And probably have a countdown of when I can change into sweated bliss.
-
Matt
