How to navigate Christmas Jumper Day in style

Friday marks the seventh annual Christmas Jumper Day raising funds for Save The Children - but has the novelty of wearing, well, novelty knitwear, worn off?

Despite a publicity campaign urging us to ‘wear your festive outwear responsibly’, this particular calendar date has become synonymous with garishly coloured, slogan-emblazoned, overtly embellished jumpers - but what if a light-up candy cane cable knit doesn’t quite tie in to your typical style?

We are of course committed to the good cause, but if, like us, you find yourself struggling to conform to arguably the tackiest sartorial event of the year, why not use this opportunity to add something with a little more longevity to your existing knitwear collection? Here are four ideas to tackle Christmas Jumper Day in a way that’s in the ‘festive spirit’ but also stylish...

Traditional patterns

Prada and Preen put Fairisle knits on the catwalk this season, showing that this classic pattern never dates. If you’re not into the idea of a ‘busy’ top half, opt for a more graphic, geometric pattern, like the zig-zag one on this Me + Em jumper, for a look with après ski vibes. If you’re taking the look to the office, pair your knit with a slim wool trousers in classic navy or grey marl to tone it down. Add a jeweled hair slide and embellished flats if you’re heading out for drinks after hours.  

Zigzag Snood Jumper, ￡199, Me + Em 

Metallics

A subtle shine can look a lot more effective than a sequin-blitzed knit, and you’re much more likely to wear it beyond Christmas Jumper Day. The high street is full of tinsel-look options - this striped & Other Stories one will look great with dark washed denim for a relaxed but professionally polished look at the end of the week.

Belted Glitter Stripe Sweater, ￡59, & Other Stories 

Colour blocks

A heavy duty fisherman’s knit with a silk slip has proven to be fashion’s ultimate partnership this season, best styled with a lug-sole boot for the perfect pretty-tough balance. A bright red, wine, or forest green incarnation will serve you long after Christmas Jumper Day, but will read as ‘festive’ on the day. Go oversized for a cosy fit.

Cable-knit sweater, ￡39.99, Mango 

Statement cashmere

If you can’t resist the idea of a slogan-smothered jumper, Bella Freud is the brand to look to for luxe knitwear with a sophisticated saying, rather than a dodgy one-liner. Chinti and Parker, too, offers star-smattered jumpers that will look festive when they need to, but stylish for the rest of the year. Cashmere is known for its warmth, softness and timelessness, making it a fail proof knitwear option and a key, versatile piece for any working wardrobe. Wear with an A-line midi skirt and chandelier earrings if you’re heading straight to the Christmas party on Friday.

 Fairytale of New York Glittered Sweater, ￡310, Bella Freud