This Christmas jumper is set to be the bestseller of the festive season, and I can certainly see why, marrying a number of trends we’ve seen throughout 2024
As a December baby, my excitement for the festive season starts almost the moment the summer holidays are over. Bring on the mince pies, the beauty advent calendars and partywear, not to mention, of course, one of the festive fundamentals – Christmas jumpers.
And I know it’s only October, but I’ve already found my top pick for 2024. And if you want to get your hands on it, you’re going to have to be quick, because I think it’s going to be a sell out.
Earlier this week, River Island revealed their festive jumper collaboration with London-based illustrator Nephthys Foster. Known for her vibrant prints that ‘celebrate life’s special moments’, Nephthys has designed nine unique jumpers with five mini-me styles that are perfect for sporting throughout the holidays.
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In previous years, festive jumpers from the high street have often been super traditional, if not a little old fashioned, or rather tacky. But that’s not the case in 2024, with more elevated, trend-led designs set to dominate.
The new womenswear designs from Nephthys Foster boast fun slogans, such as ‘Champagne Season,’ ‘Mistletoe Martini’ and ‘Tinsel Tonic’ but there was one in particular that caught my eye: the Blue Santa Baby Christmas Jumper.
Coming in at £45, the classic crewneck jumper comes in a dreamy sky blue shade – one we saw a lot of in early spring, but has translated beautifully into the winter palette thanks to its icy tones. Across the front in cursive are the words ‘Santa baby’, with diamantes adding sparkle to the front of the knit. The red lettering leans into the pop of red trend, ticking yet another style box.
Ribbed cuffs make this sweater so cosy, giving the sleeves some volume, while the hem makes it easy to wear out, or tucked up for a baggier look. But my favourite feature by far has to be the red bow embellishments that adorn the sleeves. It’s no secret that bows have been a major hit in 2024, and this is such a great way to carry it through to the end of the year.
Available in sizes XS to L, I opted for the large for an oversized fit. The size guide online suggests that this would fit up to a size 16-18, however, I do feel like they are on the small size. The material, though, is incredibly soft, making it as cosy as it is chic.
What I love most about this jumper, though, is that, while the price is higher than I’d typically spend on a Christmas jumper, seeing as it can’t be worn year-round, it feels as though it will last for years to come, and remain just as stylish. And, it seems Foster agrees, commenting on the collaboration: “I want the designs to bring joy and spark conversations; they’re more than just Christmas jumpers; they’re about creating lasting memories and I hope that when you pull them out of the loft next year, they bring back a flood of cherished moments.”
While it may be an investment piece, it’s one that will certainly come to pay off in the long run, with the playful knits set to stand the test of time. And, if you happen to have a little one, too, there’s also the option to buy it in aged from 9-12 months to 11-12 years.
Elsewhere, Marks and Spencer has started to launch some festive designs, including this Soft Touch Slogan Jumper, which reads ‘Sparkle’ for £29.50. Meanwhile, New Look has this Black Christmas Soft Knit Festive Sparkle Jumper for £26.99. Or you can buy the River Island knit that I’m obsessed with here for £45.
