The 17th of October is Wear Something Gaudy Day, and we’re prepared to draw out all the stops. If you’ve ever wanted to flaunt some of the more eccentric items in your inventory, today is the day to do so, whether it’s a chunky, rhinestone-studded belt, a pink velour Juicy Couture tracksuit or a highlighter-yellow top that only ’90s raver fans would appreciate.
The background of Wear Something Gaudy Day
Gaudy Day was popularised by the 1970s sitcom “Three’s Company,” which was based on the British television programme “Man About the House.” Larry Dallas, portrayed by Richard Kline, is a used car salesman, womaniser, and habitual liar in the television programme. In keeping with his personality, he proposed Wear Something Outlandish Day as a means to celebrate extravagant fashion.
Over time, Californians began honouring the holiday in their tackiest attire, despite the fact that it was initially unpopular. Today, the entire United States celebrates Wear Something Loud Day. The Y2K fashion of the late ’90s and early ’00s, popularised by celebrities such as Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, and Regina George from “Mean Girls,” was one of the most garish fashion trends to emerge in modern history. There were embellishments everywhere, including brightly coloured tracksuits. Simply put, it was an excellent period for garish fashion.
The glam rock era of the 1970s was also associated with gaudy fashion, as KISS and Motley Crue sported outlandish hairstyles and costumes during this time. Consider crocheted shrink tops, swimwear made of yarn, bell-bottoms paired with platform shoes, short shorts, and striped tube socks, bell-bottoms paired with platform shoes, short shorts, and striped tube socks, and coordinated leisure suits for inspiration. This may not have been what Larry Dallas had in mind when he decided to celebrate ostentatious clothing, but we find it quite poetic!
5 facts you probably didn’t know about Gaudy fashion
People who are more extroverted typically favour brightly coloured clothing that draws attention to themselves.
Men wore brightly coloured and extremely conspicuous jumpsuits, brief shorts, and tights.
Especially if the stones on your jewellery are large and reflect light in a noticeable manner.
Rhinestones, whale tails, and embellished caps are making a cautious comeback.
Fashion houses continue to push the boundaries of what is considered fashionable.
WEAR SOMETHING GAUDY DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | October 17 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | October 17 | Thursday |
| 2025 | October 17 | Friday |
| 2026 | October 17 | Saturday |
| 2027 | October 17 | Sunday |
