What to wear: festive edition
From puppytooth to plaid, checked shirts are a must this season.
WHAT TO WEAR THIS FESTIVE SEASON, WHATEVER YOUR PLANS MAY BE
However you’re spending Christmas this year, the holiday season is always an exciting time to experiment with outfitting. You don’t have to stray far from your daily get-up, though – just a few key pieces in your wardrobe can really up your festive game. From warm cashmere jumpers to comfortable chinos, here are our picks for all the important days in the Christmas calendar.
SHOP CASUALWEAR
The night before Christmas is often spent cosied up in front of the TV or wrapping last minute gifts, but if you do decide to have company over or pop out for a few, you may as well look great. Layering is the best way to go here – start with a heavy cotton tee as a base layer, then add a thick knit such as the ecru cable zip to lock that warmth in. A pair of wool-rich flannel trousers will keep you cosy in a drafty pub, alongside a smart pair of Chelsea boots, crafted from the softest chocolate-coloured suede. Top everything off with a wadded jacket that traps pockets of warm air and can easily fit under a thicker winter coat if needed.
The biggest day of the festive calendar is definitely a time to look the part, but you also need to be comfortable. After all, most of your time will probably be spent at the dining table and opening gifts on the sofa, which means that easy layering is the right way to go. A washed Oxford is a smart casual essential that uplifts any outfit, especially when it’s made from 100% cotton with added stretch for comfort. When paired with a skipper jumper, the look is relaxed but still feels put together. As for your bottom half, go for a stretch chino that is tailored to your body but still has breathing room for those extra mince pies.
Boxing Day is a time for leftovers and movie marathons, so comfort is key. A polo shirt, crafted from the softest merino wool blend, feels great on the skin and moves with your body for extra ease. A pair of worker chinos give room for moving from the sofa to the fridge with their elasticated waistband and added stretch through the legs. Top it off with a cashmere crew jumper and a comfy pair of chunky trainers and you’ve got an outfit that’s all about looking and feeling good, whatever you’ve got going on. It’s also great for Twixmas – the time between Christmas and New Year when time has no meaning – due to the high comfort levels.
It’ll likely be quite chilly on your New Year’s Day walk, which means wrapping up and staying dry is imperative. A cable roll neck made from a rich lambswool blend will keep the warmth in while regulating your temperature, alongside being the perfect neutral base for your outfit. Combine that with a pair of tonal tailored trousers to maintain the smart casual aesthetic, and add hiking boots that are made for trudging around in the snow (or rain). Finish with a brushed wool cap and a flannel puffer, extra-long to keep your bottom half warm and wadded with insulating padding to keep the wind out.