The Christmas jumper is a strange beast. At any other time of year we wouldn't be seen dead in a bright green knit, but come December and there's a stampede for the last light-up elf jumper in Penneys.

What matters most, though, is not the jumper itself but how you dress it. So if you're looking for some inspiration for last-minute Christmas get-togethers, look no further than our festive jumper styling guide…

1. Over a collared shirt
A Christmas jumper can look surprisingly crisp when worn over a white or denim button down.

Straight shirt, €19.99, H&M

2. With full-on festive tartan
Embrace the season by wearing your jumper over a sweet and preppy tartan skirt.

Red Tartan Check Skater Skirt, €14.99, New Look

3. Go edgy with leather
Make your jumper night-out worthy by teaming it with leather-look jeans or jeggings.

Black Coated Leather Look Molly Jeggings, €55, River Island

4. Over a knock-out party dress
Throw your jumper on over a bodycon dress like this gorgeous tribal print one for a relaxed by sexy look. Perfect with tights and heels.

Tribal Patterned Bodycon Dress, €16.45, Forever 21

5. With a festive colour palette
These burgundy high-waisted pants are the perfect Christmas complement to your woolly sweater.

High Waist Ponte Tregging, €32, Topshop

6. With relaxed boyfriend jeans
These slim-leg boyfriend jeans would be perfect for lounging around in on Christmas Day!

Destroyed Anti-Fit Jeans, €69.95, ONLY

7. Christmas glamour
We're in love with this bronze sequin skirt – it would be perfect with a lightweight knit.

Sequin Pleated Midi Skirt, €95, Topshop