If you’re going to dress up at any time of year, the Christmas period is it. Dress like Mark Zuckerburg for the other eleven months if you want to, but when December comes around, it’s time to step up the Christmas party outfit. Or at least, there are generally more occasions that require you to up your game: dinners with estranged family members, catch-up beers with old acquaintances, corporate events, the office Christmas party and even the odd night out with people you actually like.

For many, Christmas is a time of celebration, so why not reflect that in the way you dress? Push the boat out a little bit, whether that means donning a jacquard dinner suit or buying your usual jumper style in a slightly louder color than you usually would. With an array of different events on the calendar though, there are usually a bunch of dress codes to navigate. And let’s face it, nobody wants to look like they’re trying too hard, or indeed, not trying hard enough.

Regardless of what’s on your festive calendar, if you want to make an effort, you’re in the right place. From stylish takes on the Christmas jumper look to what to wear to the pub, we’ve got you covered for any Christmas party outfit.

Christmas Party Style Tips

Make A List (And Check It Twice)

Drafting a list of Christmas gift ideas that’s long enough to put you in the red might be a priority at this time of year, but, as well as ensuring stockings get stocked, it pays to plan for pre-Christmas parties.

“Preparation is key to a stress-free party season,” says John Harrison of storied Savile Row tailor Gieves & Hawkes. And that’s especially true if attending a black-tie party. “Spend some time going through your eveningwear a few weeks ahead, making sure you have everything and that it has been dry-cleaned or, in the case of tailoring, steamed so that it’s ready to go at a moment’s notice.”