Holiday sweaters are the easiest way to look stylish in every photo without trying too hard. They add color, texture, and personality to any outfit, and you can style them on a small budget with pieces you already own. The list below breaks down fun designs, simple pairings, and easy DIY upgrades so you can walk into any holiday event feeling comfortable and camera-ready.
1. Classic Red Cable-Knit
A classic red cable-knit sweater always looks good in photos. The color stands out in group shots, and the thick texture adds depth without feeling bulky. Pair it with dark jeans or a simple skirt. If you want a tighter fit, tuck the front slightly into your waistband. Add a gold necklace for a little shine. For a cheap DIY twist, sew two small gold buttons near the shoulder. You can also roll the sleeves to make the sweater look more relaxed. This style works well indoors or outside and stays cozy through long events. Keep your makeup simple—red sweaters do the talking in photos. This is an easy go-to when you want something bold without extra effort.
2. Fair Isle Pattern Sweater
A Fair Isle sweater brings instant holiday charm. The repeating patterns look great on camera because they add visual interest without loud colors. Wear it with jeans, corduroy pants, or a simple mini skirt. If the sweater feels oversized, do a half-tuck to shape the waist. Look for these at thrift stores—they’re common and often in great condition. Add a beanie or earmuffs if you’re taking outdoor photos. For a DIY idea, stitch a few tiny beads into the snowflake details for subtle sparkle. This sweater style is perfect for casual parties or family gatherings.
3. Chunky White Sweater
A chunky white sweater gives a soft, wintery vibe that always photographs well. The light color brightens your face and matches any background. Pair it with light-wash jeans for a calm look or black trousers for contrast. If the sweater feels too big, fold the hem under to shorten it. Add simple silver earrings to keep the look clean. For a quick DIY twist, clip a small faux-fur pom to the zipper or shoulder. You can also style it with a satin skirt for something dressier. This sweater is great when you want a simple outfit that still stands out on camera.
4. Green Turtleneck Sweater
A green turtleneck sweater adds color while staying calm and polished. It frames your face nicely in photos and works with almost any bottom. Pair it with dark denim, a plaid skirt, or black leggings. Fold the neck once if you prefer a lighter feel. If the sleeves run long, push them up to show your wrists—it makes the look sharper. For a DIY update, stitch a tiny red or gold patch near the hem for a festive touch. Add hoop earrings and ankle boots, and you’re ready for any holiday event. The outfit stays comfortable while still feeling stylish.
5. Patterned Nordic Sweater
A patterned Nordic sweater feels warm, seasonal, and perfect for photos. The repeating motifs give structure, so even simple bottoms look styled. Pair it with blue jeans or cream corduroy pants. If the sweater feels boxy, add a skinny belt over it for shape. For a small DIY upgrade, sew a few sequins into the snowflake or star shapes. This sweater works great outdoors with a beanie and boots. Indoors, tuck it slightly into your waistband to balance the volume. It’s a reliable go-to when you want something festive but comfortable.
6. Soft Pink Knit
A soft pink sweater brings a gentle, cozy look to holiday photos. The color flatters most skin tones and adds warmth without being too bold. Pair it with white jeans, light denim, or a simple midi skirt. If you want more shape, tuck one side of the sweater slightly. For a cheap DIY idea, add tiny pearl beads along the cuffs or neckline. You can also layer a white button-down underneath for a sharper look. Ballet flats or ankle boots both work well. This sweater is perfect when you want a calm, pretty outfit that still stands out.
7. Marled Gray Sweater
A marled gray sweater works well in photos because the mixed fibers add depth without feeling busy. Pair it with black jeans for contrast or soft beige pants for a calmer look. If the sweater feels loose, tuck just the center front to shape your waist. Add a simple pendant necklace to break up the texture. For a low-cost DIY detail, stitch a single line of darker yarn along the cuffs to make them look more defined. This sweater fits any setting, from outdoor photos to laid-back parties. It’s an easy choice when you want something neutral that still feels styled.
8. Cream Knit with Pom Details
A cream pom-detail sweater adds playful texture that pops in photos. The soft color brightens your face and matches most holiday backdrops. Pair it with denim, faux-leather leggings, or a plaid skirt. If the sweater feels long, fold the hem inside for a cropped effect. Add small gold earrings to warm up the look. You can DIY pom accents by attaching tiny yarn balls along the neckline or sleeves. This sweater looks cute in both indoor portraits and outdoor snow photos.
9. Burgundy V-Neck Sweater
A burgundy V-neck sweater brings rich color without being too bold. The neckline creates a flattering frame for layered necklaces. Pair it with black trousers, dark denim, or a satin midi skirt. If the V feels too deep, layer a lace camisole underneath. For a quick DIY update, sew a line of small beads along one side of the neckline. Tuck the sweater slightly for shape. Burgundy photographs beautifully in warm lighting, making this a great pick for indoor parties or dinner gatherings.
10. Snowflake Sweater
A snowflake sweater brings that classic holiday look that shows up nicely in every photo. The pattern adds interest without feeling loud. Wear it with dark jeans or white pants for a bright winter style. Roll the sleeves once to make the outfit look relaxed. For a budget DIY twist, glue tiny rhinestones onto the center of a few snowflakes. Add ankle boots or simple sneakers. This sweater works especially well in outdoor snowy photos, where the pattern stands out against natural backgrounds.
11. Oversized Black Turtleneck
An oversized black turtleneck gives a clean, stylish look with almost no effort. The dark color makes your face the focal point in photos. Pair it with leggings, jeans, or a satin skirt if you want contrast. Fold the turtleneck loosely to keep the shape soft. Add bold earrings for a little shine. For a DIY update, stitch a single metallic thread along one sleeve to create a subtle accent. This sweater is great for cozy indoor shots and relaxed parties where comfort matters.
12. Red-and-White Striped Holiday Sweater
A red-and-white striped sweater gives a cheerful holiday vibe and stands out in group photos. Pair it with simple denim, black trousers, or a skirt. If the stripes feel too bold, layer a denim jacket or puffer vest over the sweater to soften the look. For a quick DIY touch, add a small red bow to one shoulder. White sneakers or boots keep the outfit playful. This sweater works well for casual gatherings, cookie parties, or matching family photo sessions.
13. Tan Fisherman Sweater
A tan fisherman sweater gives a grounded, cozy look that works well in photos. The heavy cable details add texture without feeling busy. Pair it with dark denim or a flowy skirt. If the sweater feels too chunky, push the sleeves up to show your wrists—this keeps the outfit from looking heavy. For a budget DIY idea, tie a thin ribbon through one of the cable rows for a small accent. Add simple boots and minimal jewelry. This sweater looks especially good in outdoor settings with trees, lights, or rustic backgrounds.
14. Navy Crewneck Sweater
A navy crewneck sweater is simple but photographs beautifully. The deep color contrasts well with lighter backgrounds, which helps your outfit stand out. Pair it with khaki pants, white jeans, or a plaid skirt. If you want shape, tuck just the front or add a belt over the sweater. For a small DIY change, sew two mismatched buttons near the shoulder to give the sweater personality. Add a watch or thin bracelet for a polished finish. This is an easy pick for mixed indoor–and–outdoor gatherings.
15. Bright Green Cable Sweater
A bright green cable-knit sweater creates a lively holiday look that stands out in photos. The color pairs well with black denim, white jeans, or plaid bottoms. Roll the sleeves to soften the shape and make the outfit look more relaxed. For a low-cost DIY idea, stitch gold thread into a few cable sections to create a subtle glow. Add simple hoop earrings and ankle boots. This sweater works especially well for tree-decorating photos or festive daytime events.
16. Speckled Beige Sweater
A speckled beige sweater adds gentle color without overwhelming the outfit. The tiny yarn flecks photograph well and give the sweater personality. Pair it with jeans or a midi skirt in one of the speckle colors. If the sweater feels boxy, tuck one side slightly to shape the silhouette. For an easy DIY update, add a single embroidered star near the hem using leftover thread. Keep accessories simple so the speckles stand out. This sweater works well for coffee-shop photos, casual parties, and family gatherings.
17. Cropped Knit with Balloon Sleeves
A cropped knit with balloon sleeves creates a soft, stylish shape that stands out in photos. Pair it with high-waisted jeans, trousers, or a satin skirt. If the sleeves are too dramatic, pinch the cuffs with a safety pin on the inside to reduce volume. Add a delicate necklace or small hoops. For a budget DIY twist, attach small beads along the sleeve seams. This look works well for indoor parties where you want something cute and comfortable without too many layers.
18. Embellished Pearl Sweater
A pearl-embellished sweater adds easy elegance to holiday photos. The pearls reflect warm light and catch the camera nicely. Pair it with a simple skirt or dark denim to keep the focus on the sweater. If you want a cheaper option, attach stick-on half pearls from a craft store—space them across the chest or sleeves. Keep accessories minimal so the pearls stay the main feature. Ankle boots or low heels finish the look. This sweater works well for formal dinners, concerts, or any event where you want a softer, polished style.
19. Forest Green Chunky Knit
A forest green chunky-knit sweater brings a warm, woodsy vibe that looks great in both indoor and outdoor photos. The deep color pairs well with denim, cream trousers, or plaid bottoms. If the sweater feels wide, tuck just the front edge to create shape without losing comfort. Add small gold earrings for a soft contrast. For a simple DIY touch, weave a thin red ribbon through one of the ribbed panels. This sweater works well in tree-lit photos or cabin-style settings.
20. Soft Lavender Knit
A lavender sweater brings a calm winter look that stands out among the usual red and green holiday colors. It photographs beautifully because the pastel tone reflects light softly. Pair it with white jeans, black trousers, or a satin skirt. If the sweater sits long, fold the hem under for a cropped shape. Add silver jewelry to match the cool tone. For a cheap DIY hack, sew a small sparkly button at the neckline. This is a great choice for daytime gatherings and indoor group photos.
21. Colorblock Holiday Sweater
A colorblock sweater adds energy to your outfit without feeling too busy. Choose combinations like red and cream, green and navy, or black and gold. Pair it with simple jeans or leggings so the sweater stays the visual focus. If the sweater feels oversized, tuck one corner slightly for shape. Add a neutral bag and simple earrings. For a DIY upgrade, outline one colorblock edge with a line of contrasting thread. This look works well in bright photo settings where the colors stand out.
22. Fuzzy White Pullover
A fuzzy white pullover creates a soft, wintery look that photographs beautifully. The texture catches light and adds dimension in group shots. Pair it with faux-leather leggings or dark denim for contrast. If it feels too long, fold the hem under for a cropped effect. Add pearl earrings or a simple headband. For an easy DIY option, sew a tiny silver charm near the shoulder for a festive accent. This sweater is great for cozy indoor parties or lounging with friends while still looking stylish.
23. Bold Red Turtleneck
A bold red turtleneck always stands out in holiday photos. The color carries the outfit, so you don’t need much styling. Pair it with black trousers, jeans, or a plaid skirt. Fold the neck softly for a relaxed shape. If the sleeves feel long, push them up to create visual balance. For a quick DIY twist, add two shiny buttons near one shoulder. Keep accessories simple—small hoops work well. This sweater is perfect for parties, portraits, and outdoor winter scenes.
24. Beaded Holiday Sweater
A beaded holiday sweater adds instant shine without being loud. The beads catch light nicely in photos and pair well with simple bottoms. Wear it with dark denim, a midi skirt, or tailored pants. If the beads concentrate in one area, keep accessories minimal so the look stays balanced. For a budget DIY approach, attach beads from an old bracelet to the neckline or cuffs. Add plain ankle boots or low heels. This sweater works well for dressy events, office gatherings, and family portraits.
Conclusion
Holiday sweaters make it easy to look stylish, relaxed, and photo-ready without spending much or changing your whole wardrobe. Simple textures, soft colors, easy pairings, and quick DIY updates can take any sweater from basic to bold. Pick one from the list, add your own twist, and enjoy every moment of the season with confidence.
