Just like Christmas jumpers, Diana’s knitwear game was tongue in cheek, heavy on the animal motifs and most crucially, rather naff. So this year, instead of jumpers with cheesy Christmas puns, glittery mince pies or flashing Santa’s, the best Christmas jumpers will be rather more sartorial.
More than 20 years after her death, Princess Diana’s looks have continued to serve major #inspo – from her off-duty street style, to her revenge looks, there’s only one word for her style – iconic.
And while her evening gowns, power suits and of course the wedding dress all are well-known symbols of her style, it’s her fabulous, but rather naff jumpers that we’re really into.
As the most photographed woman in the world, she was often pictured in knitwear with every kind of adornment – llamas, embroidered baubles, sheep, fair isle knits – all styled with her unique brand of Sloane Ranger style.
And we’ve been taking notes, particularly as we head into the festive season.
Christmas this year will be different to the last, thankfully, so we’re getting into the full swing of things nice and early, and that includes starting our search for the best Christmas jumpers. This year, we’ll be taking our inspiration from none other than Princess Di’s fabulous jumper collection.
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To be honest, we’re not quite sure why we didn’t think of this sooner. Actual Christmas jumpers, whilst lots of fun, are the kind of thing you never wear outside of festivities and invariably will end up in a landfill. Not good for the planet or your finances. Whereas our picks for the best Christmas jumpers – as inspired by Diana – are actually knits you’d happily wear all winter round.
So what made the cut for our royally-inspired best Christmas jumpers? Of course, we’ve included animal motif styles – like this Boden penguin style and this Polo Ralph Lauren Ski Polo Bear Jumper. Diana loved a bold printed design so take your Christmas jumper style cues from her with this Miss Selfridge heart pattern design or Levi’s Slouchy Knit Jumper. And this year, we’re extending the best Christmas jumpers remit to include sweater vests. This lambswool style from Molly Goddard will ensure everyone knows you are their gift this year – lucky them.
Of course, our round up of the best Christmas jumpers includes Fair Isle styles – a Princess Diana and Christmas favourite. Opt for something brightly coloured like this Barbour Driftwood Knit, or for a more neutral style go for this beige jumper from Celtic & Co. at John Lewis.
So this festive season, whether you find yourself dressing for a Christmas party or a celebration with your loved ones, just ask yourself – What would Princess Di wear?
Scroll down for our edit of the best Christmas jumpers for 2021.
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