Decked out: what to wear on Christmas Day

What to wear on Christmas day
India Price,-Contributing Editor

No matter what’s on the cards this Christmas, it’s time to start thinking about what you’re going to wear because yes, it does matter

Wondering what to wear this Christmas? Does dressing up for you mean a return to a smart suit, keeping it super-casual or pitching it somewhere in between? It all depends on what your plans are – whether you'll be tied to the kitchen all day with a turkey baster and a glass of fizz, visiting friends or family or even treating everyone to a festive meal out. Whatever you have in mind, here is the ultimate guide to Christmas Day dressing.

Breakfast and presents: roll out in winter pyjamas

Even if you’re entertaining the in-laws or your distant relatives from dawn until dusk, you can still stay comfortable for as long as possible. And if you have young kids, you'll be up from about 5am anyway so the day will start in your PJs. If Christmas pyjamas aren’t your thing, stick to organic cotton versions and layer up with a cashmere hoodie, shearling slippers and your warmest socks.

Christmas lunch: time for tailoring

At lunchtime think about showing off some new tailoring, a standout patterned shirt and a pair of trousers. Christmas dinner is a time to get decked out, especially if you’re welcoming back family and friends. Wear a full suit if you want to, but a more relaxed and deconstructed version is perfect. Kin, Reiss and our own brand styles are all great starting points.

Post-lunch walk: chunky layers and luxurious accessories

What would Christmas Day be without a short waddle after lunch? Keep it simple here and think about adding pieces that’ll make your outfit even more on-trend – after all, you never know who you might bump into. Fleeces are very much still having a moment and investing in one now means that you can wear it for the rest of the season (or why not add it to your Christmas wishlist?). For something smarter, try a cashmere or wool-blend overcoat. And for extra warmth (and style kudos), add in a cashmere hat, scarf and gloves in bold, bright colours.

Evening chill: thick, comfortable layers

Come evening, comfort is king. But that’s no excuse to reach for your pyjamas or stretched-out tracksuit just yet. Instead, what about some upgraded joggers (again, Reiss has some excellent ones) and a thick roll-neck or cable-knit jumper that you can really bury yourself in? Look to old faithfuls like our John Lewis & Partners knitwear, half-zip knits and roll necks. 

Related Articles

Learn to layer well
Lessons in layering: 5 items you need to layer up this winter
Read more
Autumn essentials for men
5 men’s wardrobe essentials that you’ll wear this season and next
Read more
Chiconomics 6 Classic menswear buys that stand the test of time, from £45
Chiconomics: 6 classic menswear buys, from £45
Read more
More stories