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Wear Something Gaudy Day

Get ready to embrace your inner fashionista on Wear Something Gaudy Day - bold patterns, bright colors, and over-the-top accessories are a must!

Saturday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 17

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYStyle

SUBCATEGORYFashion

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to unleash your inner fashionista and embrace all things gaudy on October 17 for Wear Something Gaudy Day! This whimsical holiday was first created in the 1970s by television personality, actor, and comedian, Johnny Carson. The idea behind this day is to have fun with fashion and wear something that is bright, bold, and over-the-top. So why not dig through your closet or hit up a thrift store to find the most outrageous outfit you can? It's a great excuse to let loose and express yourself through fashion. Let's celebrate this quirky holiday in style!

TIMELINE

Wear Something Gaudy Day Timeline

Origin of Wear Something Gaudy Day

Wear Something Gaudy Day was first created by actor and comedian Johnny Carson in the 1970s as a tongue-in-cheek holiday.

Pop Culture Influence

The holiday gained popularity during the 80s, a decade known for celebrating excessive and flamboyant fashion styles.

Spreading Internationally

By the 90s, Wear Something Gaudy Day had begun to gain recognition outside of the United States.

Digital Celebrations

The holiday took on a new light in the age of digital media, with participants sharing their gaudy outfits on various social platforms.

Commercial Recognition

The 2010s saw businesses using Wear Something Gaudy Day for promotional events and fashion collaborations.

Continued Celebration

Today, wearers continue to outdo each other in outrageous outfits each year on October 17th.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Wear Something Gaudy Day

Have a gaudy fashion show

Gather your friends and family and have a fashion show featuring the gaudiest outfits you can find. This is a fun way to celebrate Wear Something Gaudy Day and show off your unique style.

THROW

Throw a gaudy-themed party

Decorate your house with all things gaudy and invite your friends over for a gaudy-themed party. Encourage everyone to wear their most outrageous outfits and have a blast celebrating this quirky holiday.

DIY

DIY gaudy accessories

Get crafty and make your own gaudy accessories like oversized earrings, chunky necklaces, or glittery sunglasses. You can wear these fun pieces on Wear Something Gaudy Day and add some extra flair to your outfit.

HOST

Host a gaudy costume contest

Invite your friends over for a gaudy costume contest and have everyone vote on the most outrageous outfit. You can even give out silly prizes for the winners, like a bedazzled trophy or a tacky tiara.

Go on a gaudy scavenger hunt

Create a list of gaudy items and go on a scavenger hunt around your town or city. This is a fun way to explore your surroundings and find some truly gaudy treasures along the way.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Wear Something Gaudy Day

It encourages creativity

On Wear Something Gaudy Day, there are no rules when it comes to fashion. This allows for a great opportunity to get creative and push the boundaries of what we consider "stylish." So take this day as a chance to experiment with different colors, patterns, and textures - who knows, you may discover a new favorite look!

It's a chance to express yourself

Wear Something Gaudy Day encourages people to let go of societal norms and embrace their own unique style. It's a day to dress up in bold, over-the-top outfits that truly reflect your personality. So go ahead, wear that sequined jumpsuit or feather boa - it's all part of the fun!

It brings joy and laughter

Let's face it, seeing someone dressed in a crazy outfit is bound to make you smile and brighten your day. Wear Something Gaudy Day is all about spreading joy and bringing a little bit of humor into our lives through fashion. Plus, participating in this holiday can be a great way to bond with friends or coworkers.

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