Man in a smart casual outfit consisting of an overcoat, trousers and formal shoes leaning against a black sofa.

Style

Christmas Party Outfit Ideas for Men

17 November 2025 • 3 min read

Whether it’s the office Christmas party, a few pints at the pub or an all together swankier affair, the festive season shindigs are very nearly up-on us. And, second only to the pain of picking a present for your Secret Santa, what to wear is the next big seasonal conundrum. Recent years have seen menswear steer away from traditional suit dressing and embrace more smart casual staples. But with the old rule book torn up, dressing for the most wonderful time of the year can feel anything but.

So, we’re stepping in to decode Christmas party dressing - below we’ll be breaking down the spectrum of festive season attire, from the best layers for looking the part to effortlessly cool knitwear that promises a no-stress knee’s up. Whatever the occasion, we’ve got partywear covered, so you can show up in style, without a hint of regret the next morning (at least not about your outfit).

Statement-Making Layers

For festivities on the fancier end of the scale, think NYE Parties where champagne and sparkles are guaranteed, a statement blazer is the ultimate layer to elevate your look. Teetering on the fringes of formal dressing without going full tux, it says ‘I made an effort’ while keeping things suave, not stuffy. A well cut overshirt is essential to any partywear rotation, blurring the lines between casual and considered - it does all the heavy lifting, pulling a simple T-shirt and trousers together with ease. And no winter wardrobe is complete without an overcoat, bringing timeless sophistication to your look while bolstering you from the sleet, snow and sub-zero temperatures of the season.

Knee’s Up Approved Knitwear

Some Christmas nights out call for a more considered approach. Between navigating the free bar at the office party (How many Old Fashioned’s on your boss is too many?) and handling the internal politics of the family pub crawl, your outfit shouldn’t add to the drama. The solution? A chic piece of knitwear that takes the guesswork out of getting ready. First and foremost, skip the Rudolf jumper, festive it may be but refined it is not. Instead, opt for a rollneck in a muted hue, it’s sleek, understated, and completely party appropriate. Knitted polos lend an easy sophistication while button downs keep things relaxed but still intentional. For a look that yields minimum effort, maximum impact, reach for knitwear!

Trousers That Do the Talking

When it comes to dressing from the waist down, the trick is to find the sweet spot between structure and comfort. For dressier affairs, tailored trousers are your safest bet - The clean lines, and slimmer cut add an instant air of confidence. When the dress-code leans a little looser, pleated or tapered trousers bridge the gap between laid back and lavish, adding contemporary cool to your look. Cords are a festive favourite - textured, soft, and rich in colour, they bring just the right amount of seasonal flair. And for “casual drinks” territory, dark denim does the job. A straight or wide fit keeps things grounded without missing the mark.

Buttoned up (But Never Boring)

Not just at home in boardrooms and Monday meetings, the shirt has been reimagined with a more relaxed lease of life - and it’s ready to let loose. A good shirt is the unsung hero of festive dressing: the piece that instantly sharpens your look without trying too hard. Go classic with a crisp Oxford or poplin button-up in a festive forest green, timeless, flattering and foolproof. When the vibe’s more relaxed, try a Cuban-collar in soft flannel or satin for effortless, off-duty energy. And don’t shy away from subtle patterns; fine stripes, dark florals, or micro-checks add character without chaos. Letting your shirt do the talking, so you don’t have to.

Get on Your Dancing Shoes

Don’t let your footwear be an afterthought, the right pair can make or break your look. For more laid-back festive plans - a few pints or a friend’s house party, trainers are fair game. But when the setting calls for something sharper, it’s time to step it up. If the invite reads black tie, go classic with polished Derby shoes – timeless, dependable and always dapper. Loafers bring refined ease to smart casual occasions while a pair of Clarks in rich suede tones add texture and instant style points. Not forgetting Chelsea boots, the undisputed MVP of winter dressing, sleek, practical, perfect for dad dancing and dodging puddles - what’s not to love?

The Wrap Up

There you have it; a fool proof party edit to see you through the festive period in style. From knitwear that will never let you down to the best shoes for busting out some serious moves, these are the Christmas outfit ideas that’ll carry you through every occasion, whether it’s office drinks, pints at the pub or a black-tie blow out. So, get dressed, grab a drink, and go and enjoy the festive fun in style!