Quick answer: dress for two or three hours standing outside in a damp British winter. That means a warm, water-resistant coat with a hood, a cosy knit (a festive jumper is perfect), jeans or leggings with a thermal layer, flat waterproof boots with grip, and a crossbody bag. Add a hat, scarf and gloves you don't mind getting mulled wine on.
From Edinburgh and Glasgow to Manchester, Birmingham, Bath and Winchester, UK Christmas markets are one of the best parts of winter. But it's easy to underestimate them: you're outdoors the whole time, often on cobbles, in crowds, with food and drinks in your hands. Here's what to wear so you stay warm and still look good in the photos.
The Christmas Market Outfit Formula
1. Base layer: thin and warm
A fitted long-sleeve top or a thin thermal. It adds warmth without bulk, and you can take your coat off in a warm pub or café after without overheating in a thick jumper.
2. Middle layer: the cosy knit
This is the part people see in photos, so make it count. A festive jumper, a plaid knit or a chunky cable knit in a rich colour (red, forest green, cream) looks perfect against the market lights.
A high-neck festive knit adds warmth around the neck and looks great in photos.
3. Outer layer: a coat that copes with rain
British Christmas markets are more often wet than snowy. A quilted or puffer jacket with a hood is warmer and more practical than a smart wool coat. Wool soaks up drizzle and gets heavy. If you love your wool coat, take an umbrella.
4. Bottoms: jeans or leggings, plus a hidden layer
Jeans are fine, but denim gets cold fast. Wear thin thermal leggings or tights underneath on very cold nights. Faux leather leggings are a great option because they block wind better than cotton. Avoid wide-leg trousers that drag through puddles.
5. Shoes: flat, waterproof, grippy
Cobbles, wet pavements and crowds mean no heels. Flat waterproof ankle boots or chunky-soled boots are ideal. Wear warm socks; cold feet will end your evening early.
6. Bag and accessories
A crossbody bag worn in front keeps your hands free for mulled wine and bratwurst, and keeps your purse safe in the crowds. Add a beanie or earmuffs, a big scarf and touchscreen gloves so you can take photos.
Christmas Market Outfit Ideas
- Classic cosy: a cream cable knit, dark jeans, a black puffer, brown boots and a tartan scarf.
- Festive and fun: a red Christmas jumper, black faux leather leggings, a quilted hooded jacket and a bobble hat.
- Smart casual for dinner after: a plaid knit tucked into a midi skirt with fleece-lined tights, knee boots and a wool coat (with an umbrella).
- Relaxed day trip: a hooded corduroy shacket over a jumper, straight-leg jeans and trainers with good grip.
Quilted Snap Hooded Jacket: hood up when the drizzle starts.
What Not to Wear to a Christmas Market
- Heels or smooth-soled shoes: cobbles and wet ground are a recipe for a slip.
- Your best white or cream coat: hot chocolate, mulled wine and crowds make spills almost certain.
- One giant jumper with nothing underneath: you'll be cold outside and roasting inside.
- Long trailing scarves or maxi skirts: they get stood on and dragged through puddles.
- A large tote or open bag: busy markets are prime spots for pickpockets.
Christmas Market Picks
- Pink Santa Pattern Dropped Shoulder Sweater Women UK – £32.76. A pink Santa-pattern knit, playful and photo-friendly.
- Embroidered High Neck Festive Sweater Women UK – £28.62. A dark green "merry" embroidered high-neck knit, subtle but festive.
- Smoky Plaid Soft Knit Jumper Women UK – £32.99. A soft plaid knit in grey, khaki, brown or black that goes with jeans or skirts.
- Quilted Snap Hooded Jacket Women UK – £54.99. A beige quilted jacket with a hood (100% polyester shell and fill).
- Quilted Sport Puffer Jacket Women UK – £69.95. A black quilted puffer, warm and easy to wipe clean.
- Black Crossed Waist High Rise Leather Look Leggings – £24.99. Leather-look leggings that block wind better than cotton.
- Sherpa Fleece Vest Women UK – £39.99. A sherpa fleece gilet for an extra warm layer under or over a jacket.
See more coats & jackets and jumpers & cardigans, or read this year's Christmas jumper trends and our winter layering guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to a Christmas market in the UK?
Layers: a thin base layer, a warm knit and a hooded, water-resistant coat, with jeans or leggings, flat waterproof boots, a crossbody bag, a hat, scarf and gloves.
Can I wear a Christmas jumper to a Christmas market?
Yes, it is the perfect place for one. Just wear a coat over it and a thin layer underneath so you are not too hot indoors.
What shoes are best for a Christmas market?
Flat, waterproof boots with a grippy sole. Many market areas are cobbled, crowded and wet.
Is it cold at UK Christmas markets?
Usually, yes. Evening temperatures in late November and December are often in single figures, and you will be standing still outdoors for hours, so dress warmer than you think.
Can I wear a dress to a Christmas market?
Yes. A jumper dress or a midi dress with thick or fleece-lined tights, knee boots and a warm coat works well, especially if you are going for dinner afterwards.
