Christmas day is right around the corner. In between a full social calendar and navigating shopping centre war zones to buy that last minute gift, planning an outfit for the main day is probably the last thing on your mind. That’s where we’ve got you covered with a guide to the perfect Christmas outfit, no matter what the weather.

If it’s a scorcher…

No matter the kind of weather, Christmas day usually calls for a dress. If it turns out to be a scorcher of a day, try something nice and airy like a beautiful and bright maxi dress.

Anything that isn’t too clingy is a must – and lighter, brighter colours will not only reflect away the sun, but will make you shine as well. Loose fitting clothes also mean no one will know that your belly has expanded somewhere between the full spread Christmas dinner and second helping of pudding.

Kaftans may also be a good call if you’re lucky to be poolside.

If it’s dreary and the sky may just break down and cry at any moment….

Just because the universe has chosen bad weather, it doesn’t mean your outfit needs to suffer.

If you are blessed with fabulous legs, show them off and keep them warm at the same time with bright and festive tights. I have a pair in red and another in green – if you’re lucky you may even be able to find a quirky pair with holly or Christmas trees on them! Accessorise to match statement tights and even if the weather calls for darker colours, you’re still festive.

This type of weather may also call for a cardi or a dorky Christmas sweater – and if you’re not so inclined to wear a dress, a nice pair of pants can be your best friend.

If it’s a bitser……

Sunny, cloudy, windy and maybe a bit of a chill, this day can’t make up its mind.

It is also the type of weather where you can’t really go wrong with choosing an outfit, as long as you counter for any sudden changes. Layers are a plus with this kind of weather, because you can always add or remove clothing to suit the temperature.

You may also want to consider where you are celebrating Christmas day. If you’re indoors and it’s a temperature controlled environment, it doesn’t really matter what the weather is like outside. You can always strip down or rug up in the car and no one will know. Also, if there are a lot of people in a small space, it could be cold outside and you’d still be warm.

Most importantly, Christmas day is a time for celebrating and enjoying the company of family and friends. You’re going to eat like you’ve never seen food and drink to your merriment. Don’t be afraid to get festive and if it make someone laugh, go ahead and wear that t-shirt that has the opening lyrics to a Christmas carol or Santa riding away into the night.

And remember no matter what you wear… you’re never fully dressed without a smile!

This article first appeared on minx magazine.