I’m a Mumsnet editor - here’s why River Island should be your go-to this year

My love affair with River Island began over two decades ago, spending my tween and early teenage years perusing the racks of clothing in their Leeds City Center store with my mother on weekends. 

For years, I flitted between my RI cargo trousers and flared jeans, rocked my military jacket and begged my DM to buy me a slouchy tan leather shoulder bag for school (“because all the girls had one”). 

Of course, old habits are hard to break and these days, I’ll often find myself wandering into my local River Island with my own two young children. 

Sleepychicken

For Christmas this year, the brand’s offerings are better than ever. Their party collections are glamorous yet wearable, perfect for festive celebrations. And their gift selection has thoughtful options for everyone on my list - from cosy loungewear, family Christmas pyjamas like these and even these to stylish accessories and even games for kids.

So, whether you're looking for the perfect party outfit or unique gifts for loved ones, keep reading to find my top picks from River Island for Christmas this year.

Starting with these luxurious velvet trousers that’ll add a touch of cosy sophistication to your holiday looks. With a wide leg silhouette and an elasticated waistband, they offer both style and comfort - perfect for Christmas parties or festive family gatherings.

Red Velvet Wide Leg Trousers, £40 | Buy now from River Island

Now this is one the whole family can join in with: vibrant two-piece pyjamas featuring an illustrated design created in collaboration with artist Nephthys Foster. The perfect Christmas Eve pyjamas for every family member, IMO (that includes you adults). 

Kids Red Family Christmas Pyjama Set, £12 | Buy now from River Island 

Embrace the festive spirit with this eye-catching Christmas jumper. The sequin-embellished design by Nephthys Foster (@nephthysillustrated) is sure to add a stylish spark to any wardrobe, making it a great gift for the fashionista on your list or this year’s jumper for Secret Santa with the girls.

Blue Tinsel Tonic Christmas Jumper, £45 | Buy now from River Island

Step into the holiday season with these cosy, statement-making platform boots. The faux fur lining will keep feet warm, while the slip-on design makes them easy to throw on before heading out. You can’t go wrong with this as a gift, I reckon. 

Stone Faux Fur Lining Platform Boots, £35 | Buy now from River Island

This versatile ribbed jumper dress is a chic, festive choice for the holidays. Pair it with tights and boots for a comfortable yet stylish Christmas look, or dress it up with heels and accessories for a night out.

Cream Crew Neck Ribbed Mini Jumper Dress, £45 | Buy now from River Island

Spread holiday cheer in this playful, sequin-embellished Christmas jumper from the River Island x Nephythys Illustrated collection. The vibrant ‘Merry’ graphic design is sure to put you and your loved ones firmly in the festive spirit. 

Pink Merry Christmas Jumper, £45 | Buy now from River Island

Cosy up in this luxuriously soft, oversized knit jumper - the perfect gift for relaxing by the fire on Boxing Day. Its room silhouette and warm, alpaca-blend fabric make it a comfortable, stylish choice. 

Pink Knit Oversized Jumper, £40 (various colours available) | Buy now from River Island

Shine bright this holiday season in this stunning sequin slip dress. The maxi length and square neckline create an elegant, sophisticated look that's perfect for Christmas parties and New Year's Eve celebrations.

Cream Sequin Slip Dress, £69 | Buy now from River Island

Elevate any holiday outfit with this chic diamante clutch bag. The shimmering embellishments make it a glamorous accessory for Christmas gatherings or ringing in the new year. It’d make a perfect gift, too. 

Silver Diamante Scoop Clutch Bag, £38 | Buy now from River Island

This vibrant, loose-fitting blouse features a playful bubble hem that adds a fun, festive touch to your Christmas looks. Pair it with denim or dress it up for a party. 

Red Loose Fit Bubble Hem Blouse, £36 | Buy now from River Island

These chic ballet pumps feature a sparkling gold stud embellishment for a touch of holiday glamour. The sleek, pointed toe and strapped detail create a stylish, sophisticated look, while the flat soles ensure all-day comfort.

Black Gold Studded Ballet Pumps, £36 | Buy now from River Island

Embrace the holiday party season in this figure-flattering bodycon midi dress. The bandeau neckline and 3D swirl design add eye-catching texture and drama, making this dress a festive, elegant choice.

Black Bandeau 3D Swirl Bodycon Midi Dress, £69 | Buy now from River Island

These elevated joggers offer a relaxed yet stylish look perfect for date night, shopping trips and the school run. The wide leg silhouette and monochrome side stripes give them a modern, sporty-chic vibe that’s very in RN. 

Black Monochrome Side Stripe Wide Leg Joggers, £40 | Buy now from River Island

Elevate any holiday outfit with this delicate, rose gold-plated bracelet. The dainty chain and heart pendant add a touch of feminine, romantic flair - an elegant accessory for Christmas parties or gift-giving.

Pink Rose Gold Heart Chain Bracelet, £14 | Buy now from River Island

These flattering high-rise jeans are a versatile year-round staple, but their sleek, metallic silver wash makes them especially festive for the holidays. Pair them with a sparkly top for a night out or dress them down with a cosy jumper.

Silver Denim Slim Fit High Waisted Jeans, £65 | Buy now from River Island

And last but not least, stay cosy and stylish in this luxuriously soft, heavyweight check scarf. The warm, knitted fabric and classic plaid pattern make it the perfect accessory for chilly winter days.

Beige Check Heavyweight Scarf, £25 | Buy now from River Island

What’s River Island’s delivery options for Christmas?

What I appreciate most is how easy they make it to shop, especially for time-pressed parents like myself. 

River Island’s delivery options are fast and flexible, with standard 5-day shipping free on orders over £50. And with hundreds of pickup locations, including ASDA and InPost lockers, I can easily grab my purchases on my own schedule.

About River Island

River Island is an icon of the British high street. Inspired by the latest trends and our heritage style archives, we've been serving style and leading trends for over sixty years.

We make fashion for real people with real lives, who want to look real good. Because life's a celebration - let's dress for it.

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she brings parents content designed to make life easier. When it comes to Christmas shopping, she knows all too well how difficult it can be to find the right piece to wear to your Christmas party. So, she’s fully invested in helping you find the best outfit for the holiday season. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog.