Christmas and New Year outfit ideas for men

For Christmas and New Year in Ghana, plan outfits for five moments: the Christmas church service (a suit or your best traditional wear), family lunch (smart casual in breathable fabrics), Boxing Day outings (relaxed), New Year's Eve parties (sharp evening wear), and the watch-night service (smart and comfortable for a long night). Rich colours like burgundy, emerald and gold suit the season.

What should I wear to church on Christmas Day?

Your best: a well-fitted suit, or a new or favourite traditional outfit. Many families coordinate colours for photos. See church outfits for men.

What's good for a family lunch?

Smart casual in breathable fabrics: a linen shirt or knitted polo, tailored trousers or chinos, loafers. It's hot, and lunches run long. See linen shirts for men.

What should I wear to a New Year's Eve party?

Something sharp for the evening: dark trousers, a black or jewel-tone shirt or knit tee, and clean black leather sneakers or loafers. Add one statement piece, such as a chain, a watch or a print jacket.

What about the watch-night service?

Watch-night services can run past midnight, so choose smart clothes you can sit in comfortably for hours: traditional wear, or a shirt and trousers with comfortable shoes.

Which colours suit the season?

Burgundy, emerald, gold, cream and classic white look festive and rich, especially on dark skin. See best colours for dark skin.

How do I avoid buying a new outfit for every event?

Mix pieces you own: one suit worn three ways, one print shirt with different trousers. See one suit, five looks.

Questions

Should I get a new traditional outfit made?

If you do, order it from your tailor by early November; December is the busiest month. See how to work with a tailor in Accra.

What about Detty December events?

See the Detty December style guide.

Can sneakers be festive?

Clean leather sneakers with a sharp outfit work for parties and Boxing Day. See the 5 sneakers every man needs in his rotation.