PJs vs Party Wear: The Christmas Day Dressing Dilemma Solved

On Christmas day, do we prioritise comfort over style or opt for fashion over function? A dilemma that we’ve all battled with every year. Well, the nation has spoken and the fashion experts at Oliver Bonas have the answer. 

The decision of whether to dress up or dress down on Christmas day is an annual dilemma. Pyjamas are the comfiest option for festive feasting, but who wants to miss out on the chance to wear some fabulous party wear for the occasion? 

With the festive season in full swing, a new social poll from Oliver Bonas has revealed that 68% of people prefer to wear PJs over party wear on Christmas day.

Regardless of your vote, Rhi Roberts, Fashion Buyer at Oliver Bonas has shared 5 tips to help you dress up your pyjamas or make your party wear more practical on Christmas day so you can look and feel great.

1. PJs and heels

“The days of pyjamas only being worn to bed are long gone and can actually be a comfy but stylish outfit at Christmas. For a relaxed yet polished look, choose a silky patterned set.

“Elevate your cosy attire by pairing your pyjamas with a pair of party shoes. Whether that be a bold chunky sandal, or an embellished mule, the options are endless and any pairing will add that extra bit of sparkle to your PJs.”

2. Accessorise, accessorise, accessorise

“Let your accessories do the talking as you live it up in your loungewear whilst still looking glamorous around the dinner table.

“Dress up your block coloured pyjamas by adding some sparkly jewellery. Opt for some bright earrings or a statement necklace to make your loungewear Christmas-table ready. More is more on this occasion.

“A sequined clutch or a handy crossbody bag to carry your everyday essentials can also add another layer to your stylish yet practical Christmas look.”

3. Party-ready hair 

“Your Christmas look isn’t limited to just your clothes, whether you decide to go with PJs or party wear, add some extra sparkle with your hair accessories to dress up your outfit of choice.

“For a more subtle touch, match your PJs with a glittery hair clip to secure your locks. Or for a bolder pairing, add an embellished headband to add a touch of luxe to your hair for the festivities.”

4. Trainers and dresses

“From opening presents and grazing around the dinner table to playing charades, Christmas Day is a continuous celebration. With so many stages of festive fun, remaining comfy is most people’s priority.

“Heels are not always practical to wear for the entire day, so pair some trainers with a floaty midi dress to maintain a party look that can last.”

5. Layer up

“Adding layers to your outfit is an easy way of utilising more of your wardrobe without the need to spend more money on another Christmas shopping trip. 

“Try adding a brightly coloured t-shirt underneath a chic slip dress to create a more relaxed twist on a classic formal staple. Or throw a cosy knitted jumper or cardigan on top for your post Christmas lunch walk.”

To find a solution to your Christmas day dressing dilemma, browse Oliver Bonas’s pyjamas and party wear collections

Anabel Cooper

Anabel is a graduate of King’s College London and upon graduating, she set out on a journey to inspire and empower women through her words. Besides working as a digital marketing expert, Anabel is a freelance copywriter.