You've hung the wreath, decorated the tree, trawled the shops for presents then wrapped them all up. But the tree and the gifts aren't the only things that can benefit from a few trimmings at Christmas time.

With a to-do list as lengthy as Santa's address book, chances are a Yuletide makeover isn't top of your priorities. But, just as supping mulled wine and munching on a mince pie can help boost your seasonal spirits, 'going festive' with your wardrobe can work wonders too.

Whether you're Christmas crackers or already wishing you could hibernate until February, here's how you can dress the part.

FESTIVE FIEND

You're so excited about Christmas, you probably made all your seasonal preparations back in October. All the more reason to go all-out with a natty Noel-inspired closet.

A Christmas jumper (or three!) is a must. This season there are Santas, Rudolphs, robins, sparkling trees and gingerbread men galore to choose from. Buy them slightly oversized - to accommodate all those extra helpings of pud.

Rival Santa's colour palette with lashings of bright red - you can't go wrong with a belted trench or military coat that will instantly rev up any outfit over the festive season and beyond. A sack-shaped bag should top off your Santa's little helper-inspired look.

As Christmas Eve is probably your favourite night of the year, go to (tinsel) town on eye-catching loungewear. Onesies are flavour of the month for December, or try a cosy dressing gown or print PJs for ultimate comfort.

SENSIBLY SEASONAL

Christmas is one of your favourite times of the year but you're not quite shouting about it from the chimney tops like the Santa addicts.

Think 'glam and glossy' rather than Nativity novelty for your festive wardrobe.

Make sequins, brocade and metallics your uber-glam basics to work around. They're way too pretty to reserve solely for partywear so wear your best dress, skirt or trousers pared down with a cosy plain knit, for doing the daytime rounds visiting relatives.

If you like the idea of a Christmas jumper but don't want to rival the after-dinner Stilton in the cheesy stakes, opt for Fair Isle knits to stay snug but team with slick leather or smart jeans.

Tartan is another print that suddenly feels seasonally appropriate but doesn't have a limited shelf life. Try red if you're feeling bold, or navy or forest green plaids for something more subtle.

For outerwear, faux fur is your best friend - especially in luxurious winter white. If you feel the material adds bulk to your frame, try a coat with contrast fur collar or sleeves as a flattering alternative.

FROSTY FASHIONISTA

OK, you'd be happier stranded on a desert island in a bikini come this time of year, but that's no reason to ignore Christmas altogether!

Although, if you really want to muffle out the sounds of Band Aid, Cliff Richard, Mariah Carey et al, earmuffs are your seasonal essential. Not only will they help dim the merry ditties, you'll still look the wintry part wearing them.

If you're a diehard Scrooge, go tongue-in-cheek with slogans that exude your festive bitterness. Try Topshop's 'Sleep All Day' oversized tee, £18, to wear on December 25, or Next's 'Piste Off' red mittens, £10, which you can recycle later for skiing.

Snow bring out your bah humbug side too? Arm yourself against the elements with a hardy pair of fur-lined snow boots. Ensure that they have a good grip so that you can sprint away from carol singers when required.

Forget cosying up under a throw and invest in a bright blanket coat. Not only will it keep you warm until spring returns, it should lighten up your Scrooge scowl every time you wear it.