The holiday season is upon us, and Christmas is one of the most joyous and festive times of the year. For men, this time of year presents an excellent opportunity to elevate their style and embrace the festive spirit with outfits that are both stylish and seasonally appropriate.
Choosing the perfect Christmas outfit can be challenging, as you want to strike the right balance between elegance, comfort, and a nod to the festive season. Whether you’re dressing for family gatherings, parties, or Christmas Day itself, there are plenty of great options to ensure you look your best.
Here’s a guide to the best clothes choices for men to wear this Christmas.
Table of Contents
1. The Classic Christmas Sweater
No Christmas wardrobe is complete without the classic Christmas sweater. Once considered tacky, the Christmas sweater has undergone a style transformation in recent years. Today, it is a must-have festive piece that can range from humorous to sophisticated. When choosing a Christmas sweater, you have various options depending on your personal style and the event you are attending.
For a more casual and fun look, opt for a sweater with a playful design, like reindeer, Santa Claus, or Christmas trees. Many men prefer these whimsical designs for informal gatherings or work parties where a bit of humor is encouraged. On the other hand, if you’re attending a slightly more formal event or prefer something subtler, choose a sweater with a classic winter design. A sweater featuring patterns like snowflakes, fair isle prints, or even monochromatic textures can add a festive touch without going overboard.
For those who want to splurge, look for sweaters made from high-quality fabrics like cashmere or wool blends. These materials not only provide warmth but also give your outfit an elevated look. Pair your Christmas sweater with dark denim or tailored chinos, and you’ll have a balanced outfit that’s perfect for any festive occasion.
2. Smart Casual for Christmas Gatherings
If you’re attending a Christmas dinner or gathering with family and friends, smart casual is often the go-to dress code. Smart casual offers a great mix of comfort and style, allowing you to enjoy the festivities while looking put-together.
Tops
A well-fitted button-down shirt is a staple for smart casual outfits. For Christmas, choose a shirt in festive colors like deep burgundy, forest green, or even a plaid pattern with red and green hues. Plaid is a great pattern for the holiday season, giving off a rustic and warm vibe that fits the Christmas theme perfectly.
Alternatively, consider a knitted polo shirt or a lightweight turtleneck sweater. A turtleneck, in particular, is a stylish and versatile piece that works well for winter gatherings. Opt for neutral shades like gray, black, or cream, which can easily be dressed up with a tailored blazer or layered under a heavier coat.
Bottoms
For bottoms, chinos or tailored trousers are the way to go. Darker colors, such as navy, charcoal, or deep green, are excellent choices for the winter season and provide a sleek contrast to festive tops. Slim-fit or straight-leg trousers give a refined silhouette, ensuring you look sharp without sacrificing comfort. If the event is particularly laid-back, you can even opt for dark-wash jeans, but make sure they are fitted and free from distressing for a polished look.
Layering
Layering is key to achieving a smart casual look in winter, especially during Christmas when the weather can be chilly. A well-cut blazer or sport coat is a great addition to your outfit, adding a touch of sophistication. Blazers in textured fabrics like tweed, wool, or herringbone are particularly suited for the colder months. For a more relaxed vibe, consider a casual bomber jacket or even a chunky knit cardigan. Cardigans offer a cozy feel while still looking smart, especially when paired with a crisp shirt or turtleneck.
3. Formal Christmas Events
For more formal events, such as a company Christmas party or a high-end dinner, you’ll need to up the ante with a tailored suit or a more polished outfit. While a standard black suit is always a safe option, Christmas is the perfect time to experiment with seasonal colors and textures.
Suits
A well-tailored suit in deep hues like burgundy, emerald green, or navy can make a statement while still looking elegant. Velvet suits or blazers are another festive option that adds a luxurious and festive touch to your look. Velvet works especially well in jewel tones, creating an eye-catching ensemble that’s perfect for the holiday season.
If you prefer to stick with a classic black or navy suit, you can add festive flair through accessories. A patterned tie or pocket square featuring holiday motifs, such as snowflakes or holly, can add a subtle Christmas touch without overwhelming your outfit.
Tuxedos
If you’re attending a black-tie event or a very formal Christmas party, a tuxedo is the best choice. A classic black or midnight blue tuxedo is timeless, but you can also go for a velvet tuxedo jacket in a deep color for a festive twist. Pair your tuxedo with a crisp white dress shirt, a silk bow tie, and polished black shoes to complete the look.
Footwear
For formal events, your choice of footwear should complement the overall elegance of your outfit. Oxford shoes or loafers in black or dark brown are ideal for suits and tuxedos. For a festive touch, opt for shoes in patent leather or suede, which can add a bit of texture and richness to your ensemble.
4. Casual Christmas Day Outfits
Christmas Day is often a more relaxed affair, especially if you’re spending it with close family at home or at a low-key gathering. While comfort is key, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style.
Loungewear
For Christmas morning, when you’re likely unwrapping presents and relaxing, comfortable loungewear is a great choice. A soft cotton or flannel pajama set in a festive pattern, such as plaid or a Christmas-themed print, is a fun yet cozy option. Pair this with a comfortable pair of slippers, and you’re set for a relaxing morning by the fire.
Casual Knits
As the day progresses and you’re sitting down for a meal or playing games with family, you may want to change into something a bit more structured yet still casual. A chunky knit sweater paired with dark jeans or corduroy pants offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Opt for sweaters in rich winter colors like maroon, olive, or navy. If you’re a fan of patterns, a fair isle sweater is a great option, offering a classic winter design that’s both stylish and appropriate for the holiday season.
Accessories
Don’t forget to add some festive accessories to your casual Christmas outfit. A cozy scarf in a festive pattern, like tartan or stripes, can add warmth and style. If you’re heading outdoors for a winter walk, a knitted beanie in a complementary color can keep you warm while looking stylish.
5. Outdoor Christmas Activities
Many Christmas celebrations involve outdoor activities, whether it’s a family walk in the snow, a visit to a Christmas market, or some outdoor ice skating. For these occasions, you’ll need an outfit that not only keeps you warm but also looks great.
Outerwear
A good winter coat is essential for outdoor Christmas activities. A wool overcoat in a classic color like charcoal, navy, or camel is a versatile piece that works for both casual and formal outfits. For a more relaxed look, consider a parka or puffer jacket in a neutral tone. These types of jackets are practical for winter weather, providing warmth and protection from the elements.
Layering for Warmth
To stay warm in the cold winter weather, layering is key. A thermal long-sleeve shirt or a merino wool base layer under your outfit can provide additional warmth without adding bulk. A scarf, gloves, and hat are also essential accessories for outdoor activities. Look for accessories in materials like cashmere or wool for a luxurious feel and extra warmth.
Footwear for Outdoors
Footwear is particularly important if you’re spending time outdoors during Christmas. A pair of sturdy boots, like leather Chelsea boots or lace-up winter boots, can keep your feet warm and dry while still looking stylish. For extra comfort, choose boots with insulated lining or waterproof features.
6. Christmas Accessories
The finishing touches to any Christmas outfit come in the form of accessories. Accessories can add personality to your outfit and can often be the easiest way to incorporate a festive theme without being over-the-top.
Festive Socks
Christmas socks are a fun way to add a bit of festive cheer to your outfit, whether you’re going formal or casual. Look for socks in holiday patterns like snowflakes, candy canes, or reindeer. If you prefer something more understated, opt for socks in deep winter hues like red, green, or burgundy.
Watches and Jewelry
A sleek watch or some subtle jewelry can elevate your outfit. For formal events, a classic leather-strap watch or a metallic timepiece can add sophistication. If you’re going for a more casual look, consider a watch with a fabric strap in a seasonal color. Cufflinks with holiday motifs or even a simple lapel pin featuring a festive design can add a touch of Christmas spirit to your formal wear.
