The Hilarious Costumes of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation: An Ode to Ellen Griswold

Millions of families gather around the TV every holiday season to watch the beloved classic, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. This beloved comedy follows the chaotic and hilarious misadventures of the Griswold family as they attempt to have the perfect Christmas. And while Clark Griswold may be the star of the show, it's his wife Ellen who steals the spotlight with her iconic and unforgettable Christmas costumes.

From her festive apron to her cozy pajamas, Ellen's wardrobe is not only entertaining but also serves as a reflection of her character throughout the film. Let's take a closer look at some of her most recognizable and humorous outfits, and how they add to the overall charm of this holiday favorite.

The Apron of All Aprons

It's safe to say that no one rocks an apron quite like Ellen Griswold. In one of the most memorable scenes of the movie, she dons a festive red and green apron while preparing Christmas dinner. The apron is adorned with a large bow and pom-poms, adding a touch of whimsy to her cooking attire.

But what truly makes this apron stand out is the subtle wiring that runs through it, giving the illusion that Ellen's apron is actually tangled Christmas lights. This small detail perfectly captures the chaos of the Griswold household during the holidays, and adds a comedic element to the scene.

From Sweaters to Pajamas

As the holiday madness ensues, Ellen can always be seen in a cozy and festive sweater. From her bright red reindeer sweater to her green plaid button-up, Ellen's sweaters are a staple in her wardrobe. And let's not forget her infamous "Mele Kalikimaka" sweater, complete with a dancing Santa and palm trees.

But when it's time to wind down and relax, Ellen opts for a more comfortable and cozy option – Christmas-themed pajamas. In one scene, she is seen sporting an oversized red and green flannel set with a matching nightcap. And in another, she rocks a green nightgown with "Fa La La La La" written across the front. These pajamas not only add to the festive atmosphere but also show Ellen's love for all things Christmas.

The Iconic White Turtleneck

Last but certainly not least, we have Ellen's iconic white turtleneck. This simple yet classic piece of clothing becomes the center of attention in one of the film's most memorable scenes. As the Griswolds' house is illuminated with thousands of lights, Ellen steps out in her white turtleneck, completely covered in soot from the fireplace. This contrast of black and white adds to the comedic effect and perfectly showcases Ellen's dedication to making the holiday season perfect.

In Conclusion

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation wouldn't be the same without the charming and comical costumes of Ellen Griswold. From her apron with wired lights to her festive sweaters and pajamas, each outfit adds depth and humor to her character and the overall film. So, this holiday season, as you gather around with your loved ones to watch this timeless classic, keep an eye out for Ellen's hilarious and unforgettable costumes.

Cwce 6 0 The Hive