WHETHER IT’S crazy jumper with lights or a comedic sweater with a nod to pop culture – or even the family pet’s Christmas ‘fit – , wearing a Christmas jumper has become a fun festive tradition for many.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity to raise much-needed funds for those experiencing homelessness in Ireland.
This year, Focus Ireland is encouraging schools, clubs, workplaces, families and friends to host their own Christmas Jumper Day to raise much-needed funds for the charity.
“What better way to celebrate Christmas than having some craic in your finest Christmas look,” says fashion designer Brendan Courtney, who’s this year’s ambassador for the campaign. “And it’s all for an amazing cause – ending homelessness with Focus Ireland.”
To get you inspired, we asked readers to share their most impressive Christmas jumpers and looks from over the years. From homemade knits to dogs’ outfits, here’s what they sent in…
1. Sarah’s Harry Potter-inspired knits
My brother Dave and his girlfriend Lynn live in England and I hadn’t seen them in over a year due to Covid-19. However, we are due to head over to visit them soon and we are planning on visiting the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios while we are over there.
I wanted to get them a gift as a thank you for letting us stay with them for a couple of days but I couldn’t think of something to get them. I decided to crochet us all Mrs Weasley inspired Harry Potter Christmas jumpers in our individual house colours as a thank you. They were absolutely delighted when I gave them to them as they weren’t expecting them at all.
2. Rebecca’s dog Toby and his reindeer costume
Toby didn’t like his costume at all – he just wanted to eat the antlers. My mum thought it would make a lovely Christmas card photo and my dad thought we were torturing the poor dog. Everyone agreed that he looked very cute though!
3. Niamh and her family’s matching pyjamas
My family loves to come together at Christmas and last year we said we’d watch The Late Late Toy Show in matching Christmas clothes. We couldn’t forget our cockapoo Teddy, of course!
4. Ciara’s pup Frank’s jumper to match the family
Frank, our pet dachshund, thinks he is human so he obviously deserves to dress like a human with his own Christmas jumper! He is beloved by our whole family and is the snazziest dachshund walking our local streets for sure.
5. Laura and her family’s yearly tradition
We love Christmas jumpers and pjs. It’s something that gets us in the mood for Christmas, and it’s something that we’ll definitely continue to do as a family.
6. Amy’s dog Lexi and her first Christmas sweater
Last year was Lexi’s first Christmas, so we had to get her something to wear on the day (for a photo, at least!). When we arrived for dinner, everyone in the family loved the surprise and we all had a great laugh. There’s no way she’ll fit into it again this year, so I’ll have to find something else and make it a tradition.
Whether you’re getting together in person to celebrate or saying ‘cheers’ with friends over Zoom, Christmas Jumper Day is the perfect opportunity to get into the festive spirit while raising much-needed funds for Focus Ireland. Find out more about organising a Christmas Jumper Day for your school, college, workplace, or with family and friends here. Donate to Focus Ireland here.
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