As the festive season barrels toward its climax, the annual question of what to wear on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve is once again top of mind for many. Despite knowing the exact date, the search for an outfit that balances style, comfort, and celebration often gets pushed to the last minute. But this year, high street mainstay Marks & Spencer (M&S) and a handful of other brands have stepped up with a line-up of winter fashion essentials that promise to deliver both flair and practicality—no matter your plans or personal style.
On December 19, 2025, a flurry of fashion advice hit the presses, each article zeroing in on the perfect winter wardrobe. Rosie Floyd, writing for Closer Online, declared the M&S Sparkly Ribbed Knitted Maxi Dress the answer to the perennial Christmas Day dilemma. "The beauty of this dress is how it balances style and comfort," Floyd wrote, noting its slim fit that flatters without restricting, a flared hem for movement, and vertical ribbing that lends both texture and a lengthening effect. The dress, in a rich red-brown burgundy shade, is knitted with a natural stretch—meaning you can indulge in all the Christmas classics (turkey, stuffing, pigs in blankets, and more) without worrying about tightness or discomfort.
"If you love a bit of sparkle but refuse to be uncomfortable while eating your body weight in roast potatoes, this is the dress that’s about to save your Christmas," Floyd quipped. The subtle sparkle catches the light just enough to feel festive without veering into over-the-top territory, and the fabric’s give means you’re free to go back for seconds—or thirds. Styling options abound: pair it with a full-length coat and knee-high boots for a brisk Christmas Day walk, or keep things cozy inside with tights and slippers. For those venturing out for a pre-Christmas pub visit, heels and a swipe of lipstick transform the look instantly. The only catch? "Styles like this never hang around for long," Floyd warned, urging readers to act fast if they want delivery in time for the big day.
But M&S’s winter fashion arsenal doesn’t stop at festive dresses. Saskia Kemsley, writing for another publication on the same day, spotlighted the brushed alpaca-blend jumper as the knitwear trend of the season. This jumper, priced under £50, is "softer, lighter and more tactile than traditional winter jumpers," Kemsley explained. Its clean, unfussy silhouette, classic crew neck, and relaxed drape make it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. The brushed finish adds a touch of depth and softness, ensuring coziness without bulk. "Styling-wise, it earns its place quickly," she wrote, recommending pairings with denim and Oxfords for daytime, or tailored trousers and a skirt for evening plans. The jumper encapsulates the broader shift toward clothes that are "indulgent but sensible—a luxury look without the luxury price tag."
Knitted dresses, too, are enjoying a well-deserved moment. Christina Geggus, in her December 19 piece, highlighted the M&S Air-Yarn Ribbed Mini Knitted Dress as a top pick for the season. At just £36, this mini dress is crafted from luxuriously soft Air-Yarn fabric, making it lightweight yet warm. Its slim fit, ribbed design, and added stretch contour the silhouette while ensuring comfort for all-day wear. The classic crew neckline and fit-and-flare shape mean it’s suitable for everything from weekend errands to evenings out. Geggus offered a host of styling suggestions—black tights and ankle boots for casual chic, a faux fur jacket for outerwear, or knee-high boots and a cropped faux leather jacket for a night on the town. "The styling options are endless," she enthused, cementing the dress’s status as a fuss-free winter staple.
For those seeking a touch of royal inspiration, Lauren Codling reported on the M&S denim button-front midi shirt dress—eerily similar to a style worn by Kate Middleton in 2020 when she met Sir David Attenborough. Through a TopCashback offer, the dress is available for under £30, down from its usual £46 price tag. The dress features a regular fit, midi-length skirt, smart collared neckline, and short sleeves, making it a versatile wardrobe addition. Codling noted that the Duchess paired her version with blue court shoes and a voluminous blow-dry for a look that was both classic and understated. Customer reviews have been largely positive, with shoppers praising the dress’s quality and style, though some recommend sizing up for a better fit around the bust. "Really good quality denim dress in a flattering style. Fits well. Great price for the quality and design. Just love it," one satisfied customer shared. The dress’s appeal lies not just in its royal connection, but in its timeless silhouette and affordability.
Of course, as Christmas fades into New Year’s, the pressure to find the perfect party outfit mounts. Molly Smith, writing for woman&home, tackled this head-on by sharing six outfit formulas for ringing in 2026 in style. Smith’s approach is refreshingly practical: her picks are designed to be reworked into the new year, doubling as winter capsule wardrobe staples. The options cater to a variety of settings and dress codes, from glitzy dinners to low-key nights in.
Among her top recommendations: a satin blouse (like Zara’s bow-detail version) paired with wide-leg tailored trousers for understated elegance; burgundy leather-look trousers with a fitted puff-sleeve top for a smart-casual vibe; and sequin flares with a sharp blazer for unapologetic party glamour. For those prioritizing comfort, Smith suggests a cozy jumper with a statement sequin skirt—M&S’s silver sequin skirt gets a special mention—offering both warmth and a celebratory feel. Other standouts include a velvet-embellished trapeze dress from M&S, praised for its forgiving silhouette and sparkling details, and Mango’s scarf jumpsuit, which combines sleek tailoring with subtle rhinestone embellishments for a quietly festive look.
Smith’s advice is peppered with practical tips: swap heels for flats if you’ll be on your feet all night, and layer a faux-fur coat to stay warm as temperatures drop. As she put it, "These six New Year’s Eve outfits work for a variety of settings and dress codes." The key, she emphasizes, is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident—whether that’s a little black dress, a floor-length sparkler, or your favorite pair of jeans smartened up with sharp accessories.
With Christmas and New Year’s Eve just around the corner, these expert-approved picks from M&S and beyond offer something for everyone—whether you’re a devotee of festive sparkle, a fan of classic denim, or someone who values comfort above all. The consensus from this season’s fashion coverage? There’s no need to sacrifice style for comfort, or vice versa. With the right pieces, you can have both—and step into 2026 looking and feeling your best.
