Sartorially speaking, at this time of year nothing says ‘festive spirit’ more than a novelty Christmas jumper – yet no matter how jovial a slogan sweat may be, they are destined to be relinquished to the back of your wardrobe come Jan 1st, or worse still, landfill. If you’re looking for an investment buy that will last beyond the New Year and is slightly more subtle than a flashy, singing number, here are our tips on how to style a festive knit multiple ways to increase its wear, plus our top five favourite, stylish sweaters to snap up this season.

1. Look for lurex


A shot of metallic thread will add a hint of grown-up sparkle, without going OTT. Great for the party season and beyond. There are plenty of styles around the high-street; look for frill collars and cuffs for added festive bonus points.

2. Go for a Christmassy tone rather than a graphic or slogan


Choose a forest green or berry red that feels just as merry, without the January sell-by date. A skinny knit can also be layered under winter dresses or jumpsuits to double its use. Look for a silk or fine merino knit.

3. Don’t worry about a simple, block-colour knit being too casual


Dress it up with a faux frill or Peter Pan collar to instantly make it feel smarter. Pair with tailored pieces and it will immediately feel glam enough for the festive season, yet versatile enough to dress down come the New Year.

4. Accessorise


Even the simplest of knits can be made festive with added sparkle. Look for brooches, statement earrings or embellished bib collar necklaces for some added razzle dazzle.

5. Go for natural fibres


They will keep their shape and last you more than one advent; a classic star emblem in a wool or cashmere will be an annual favourite that you wear each year.

And here’s where to find that holy grail: Christmas sweaters that cleverly tick the subtle, stylish yet festive boxes. These are our five favourites for 2019.

Wyse

Sequin Colette Bomber, £240
Colette Sequin Bomber

This luxe bomber is a modern alternative to a cardigan for layering. In luxury cashmere with rainbow sequin cuffs, it’s a great luxe option for layering over your party dress to stay cosy while showing a hint of sparkle. Wyse also has a range of star-embellished cashmere knits in neons and metallics, a subtle nod to the festive season that won’t feel immediately dated when the decs come down.

Arket

Oversize Glittery Jumper, £89
Oversized Glittery Jumper

A Christmas tree green, wool-blend knit, shot through with a metallic thread: what could be more Christmassy? This cosy, over-sized knit from Arket is perfect for pairing with a black sequin pencil skirt and knee-high boots for the party season, then dresses down effortlessly with leather leggings and trainers come the New Year.

Brora

Nimbus Fair Isle Poloneck, £195
Alpaca Fair Isle Polo Neck
This monochrome Icelandic-inspired knit feels subtly festive without the need for bells or whistles; pair with a pleated skirt and heels for draughty church services, or team with jeans and boots for a brisk Boxing Day walk. An investment buy you will wear year after year.

Massimo Dutti

Cable Knit Shimmer Sweater, £70
Cable Knit Shimmer Sweater

This cable-knit jumper looks like pure molten gold. No further embellishment required, team it with wide-legged velvet trousers, or cool winter whites for an on-trend take on festive shimmer.

Chinti & Parker

Red Tie Neck Cashmere Wool Sweater, £157.50
Red Tie Neck Cashmere-Wool Sweater

Wrapped up like the perfect present, this cashmere tie-neck knit from Chinti & Parker is the perfect Christmas day jumper. A truly festive hue, pair with black tuxedo pants and velvet loafers for laid-back seasonal style that doesn’t scream ‘Christmas’, but rather whispers it with style.

READ MORE

Best Christmas Jumpers of 2019
Navygrey
Chinti & Parker

By Lydia Mansi
December 2019