This year, instead of panicking and buying something 100% polyester, why not buy a jumper that isn't just for Christmas, a jumper that does have festive edge but doesn't have a garish reindeer face? A jumper festooned with a pudding, holly berries or clusters of baubles? Those days are over. So instead, meet the not-so-novelty knit – Christmas jumpers that are light on tinsel while still managing to be big on joy. It also means they're more sustainable, too.
Think Fair Isle jumpers, Argyle sweaters or cosy cable-knits with a fashion twist. Argyle knits have actually been around since the 17th century but have recently struck a chord with the fashion set thanks to Molly Goddard, whose reimagining of the print paired with trademark tulle has been a hit ever since the combo hit the catwalks. The trick to making it ‘fashion’ is in the pairing – avoid any 'golfing dad' comparisons and try slip skirts, straight-leg jeans, layered over a crisp white shirt or even opt for a festive cardigan instead.
The good news is that these knits work all year round, which is particularly helpful if you live in the UK - and can't rely on warm weather come spring. Now, they're the perfect remedy for dull weather and can be worn long after the 12 days of Christmas. The goal, says Buffy Reid, founder of knitwear label & Daughter, is to get years of wear out of your knit, rather than mere weeks. ‘There’s something so special about that treasured knit that everyone has in their wardrobe. It’s about a forever piece, made in the best way, from the finest natural raw materials that, looked after, should last a lifetime.'
Scroll below for some of our favourite Christmas jumpers available right now.
Shop: The Best Christmas Jumpers You'll Actually Wear Again
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Only just last week did this White Stuff Fair Isle jumper in another colourway sell out in record time. Now, the brand have brought out another colour - this stunning bright blue. Made from a cosy wool blend, this jumper is sure to keep you warm come below freezing temperatures.
Aligne aligne.co
Aligne describe the Freba Zip as Après-ski style, so could equally be paired with salopettes as denim jeans. The Fair Isle print is also extremely wearable and versatile, mixing a baby blue with brown and white tones. Plus, the double-sided zip is there for easy on and off.
www.herdwear.co
All of Herd's knitwear is made in England and is truly sustainable. Every piece is hand-finished, made without toxicity of any kind and is 100% biodegradable. These jumpers are an example of truly beautiful clothes that you'll want to wear forever.
www.ganni.com
Ganni's knit continues to be a hit with the Insta girls. Available in five different colours, wear this over long dresses for a cool take on partywear.
Kitrikitristudio.com
Bows are big news for 2024 - and this Kitri jumper incorporates the trend in the most timeless way. Featuring a gorgeous bow and rose motif in various shades of pink and burgundy, this jumper also has a functional quarter zip.
www.thecrofthouse.com
Supporting small businesses has never been more important. The Scottish brand The Croft House manufactures traditional Fair Isle jumpers, perfect for Christmas morning.
COS www.cos.com
This jumper is the definition of one of those jumpers that look like Christmas has almost thrown up on it. However, it features a red pattern you can wear all the way up until, Valentine's Day? Shaped in a cocooning silhouette, this jumper is crafted from a blend of merino wool and cashmere.
H&M www2.hm.com
Unlike classic Christmas colours like your greens, reds and burgundy's, H&M have opted for a more muted festive jumper and kept it in a grey colour palette. It also has ribbing at the cuffs and hem, as well as long raglan sleeves.
Kitri kitristudio.com
If you're after a thicker cardigan, this one is made from a gloriously soft wool blend. A hybrid between a jacket and a cardigan, the Pandora cardigan is perfect for those days where it's not cold enough to wear a coat once it moves into spring.
John Lewis www.johnlewis.com
If you're after a Christmas jumper that's still slightly garish, this one from Chinti & Parker is a great option. With festive baubles on the front, it adds a touch of playfulness to any outfit, whether it's Christmas jumper day or not.
River Island www.riverisland.com
This Christmas jumper is among one of our favourites, because of its cute design that's been drawn by illustrator Nephthys Foster. Featuring text that reads 'Mistletoe Martini' this jumper would look great styled with leather trousers and kitten heels.
Nobody's Childwww.nobodyschild.com
Red doesn't always have to be festive - in fact this cardigan proves just that. With soft ribbed trims, a classic crew neck and button-down front, all that's missing is a pair of jeans and chunky boots.
Reisswww.reiss.com
Reiss have made its own take on the classic Fair Isle style by adding purl stitches for a more tactile effect. This Christmas jumper is definitely one for the minimalists among us, with drop-shoulder sleeves, rounded neckline and cream and black print.
Next www.next.co.uk
Another bow offering for you - this one is from Next and features one large pink and sequin bow on the front. This bow-marvel is also made from a cotton-blend fabric, which makes it more similar to a sweatshirt.
Main image credits: Via LTK/@ellisransonx, Instagram/@emmalanestylist, Herd
Natalie Hammond is Grazia’s senior fashion news editor. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).