Despite enjoying fashion’s proclivity for being flamboyant, I’m usually the sort of person who dodges anything remotely festive. Halloween costumes are a strictly no-go area, Valentine’s Day isn’t worth celebrating (sorry), so then, of course, Christmas jumpers are completely out of the question. Don’t get me wrong—Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year, but when I start seeing the two words “novelty” and “knitwear” together, I want to run a mile. I dislike it all—from pullovers festooned with stick-out reindeer antlers to cable-knits with look-at-me tinsel embellishments.
Camille Charrière knows exactly how to do Christmas jumpers the fashion way.
Call me Ebenezer, but that doesn’t mean I’m completely averse to a bit of festive-style clothing. And this year just so happens to be the year of the classy Christmas jumper. This season’s knitwear, while being a little sparklier than your usual winter jumper, is ideal for wearing right now and straight through the holidays. Spotted on the runways at Khaite and Miu Miu, knitwear was taken up a notch. Some pieces were bejewelled, some had sequin details, and others had fringed beading. But all are ideal for party season—especially if you’re planning to keep yours low-key.
What’s more, the more pared-back way to do Christmas jumper dressing allows you to make the most of your new item. Sure, a novelty jumper is fun, but we doubt you’ll wear it as soon as the temperature drops next autumn. We like to encourage thoughtful shopping, and a more pared-back and classy Christmas jumper can be worn right now, and into 2024.
Below, I’ve hunted down the ideal knitwear to wear right now and then all the way through winter. Come Christmas Day, however, it’ll still feel festive enough for a celebration.
I saw so many people pick this up when I was last in a Massimo Dutti store.
Bows are a pretty yet understated detail and feel just the right amount of festive.
This cardigan has already sold out in the cream, black and grey colourways—don’t miss the new peach hue.
You had me at “green feathers”.
The sequin placement on this jumper creates a beautiful effect.
Red knitwear is a key trend this season; the blue undertones in this jumper keep it the right side of classy.
The little foil detailing is as delicate as a flutter of snow.
Lurex knits double up as the perfect party attire.
So cute!
Only the coolest festive dressers need apply.
Tinsel meets knitwear! I love the idea of wearing this with a matching silver slip skirt.
If black is your signature colour, add sequins into the mix.
I can picture Kendall Jenner or Hailey Baldwin wearing this with leather trousers and Uggs.
Nail the Christmas-jumper brief with red sequins.
Show me a prettier embellished knit.
Cream knitwear always looks elevated.
Pointelle details and ruffle necklines give this evergreen knit French-style flair.
Pep up your winter wares with pink Argyle.
You need to click through to fully appreciate the detail in this piece. The gem clusters? They look like snowflakes!
I was always more into après ski than hitting the slopes…
Is there anything more fabulous than a white tulle ruffle?
Pearl details look so polished. This knit also comes in cream, so you have two to choose from.
Next up, Our Epic Guide to the Best Christmas Gifts for Women, Whatever Your Budget
This piece was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.