Family photos are a staple during the holidays. While we all love sending and receiving these photos in Christmas cards from friends and family, and showcasing them on social media, coordinating outfits for the whole family can be stressful! There’s nothing quite like trying to find something the whole family will love, or at least tolerate, for the annual Christmas picture. Ideally, you want a portrait where most of you are smiling, and the crying is at a minimum. Families take the picture delightfully dressed up or completely comfy in pajamas. While either is adorable, give some thought to where your photoshoot will take place, what your kids can handle at their ages, and what else you’re trying to achieve with this photo.
Once you decide on the tone of your photo, it’s time to pick from the best family Christmas outfit ideas. We’ve rounded up options that are a mix of formal and casual, ones that would work in many venues, and ideas for different family ages and configurations. You’ll even be able to include your pets if you want to. The decision is half the fun, so enjoy looking through these picture-perfect pairings to find one that fits the vibe of your family.
Christmas pajama ideas
Elf pajamas
Pajamas are the classic Christmas family matching outfit go-to, and we love the whimsy of everyone dressing as elves. Cotton pajamas are easy to buy in everyone’s size and always look great in front of the tree at home. Choose between stripes, green versus red, or a whole array of different elf pajama designs. The best part is that the family can wear them all winter long, so you’ll get your money’s worth.
Reindeer pajamas
Reindeer-themed pajamas have hoods with antlers which make for an adorable, cozy, informal family photo at home by the fire. For any pets, you could throw antlers on them without full-on PJs. But if you find a set that does offer a matching pet option, you should get them.
Flapjack pajamas
Yes, one more pajama option because they are the most popular matching family outfit with good reason! These are just for fun. The old-timey PJs with that opening on the bottom make for adorable family Christmas photos with a wholesome feel. Browse through all the funny sayings on the flaps and the different colors and patterns before making your choice.
The classic Christmas matching options
Mix-and-match green and red
You don’t all have to be in exactly the same outfit to be matching. If you wear cotton tops with khakis or everyone is in a print-like plaid, that will tie in the common theme enough so it’s still a cohesive look. Half of you could wear green while the other half wears red.
Red plaid
Red plaid is a versatile option for everyone. From a tree farm setting to a cocoa with Santa setup or even a home fireplace shoot, red plaid suits boys, girls, and pets. Even if you don’t buy the outfits in a set, red plaid pieces bought separately for each family member could easily be worn long after the family photos are taken. Get your plaid in a cozy flannel or other material, but no matter what, this style choice will infuse the feeling of the season into your family pictures.
“Ugly” Christmas sweaters
They might have a reputation as ugly now, but we prefer the term classic. Make them more casual in jeans or dress them up with slacks and skirts. Have everyone wear the same sweater or find similar sweaters that are variations on a theme.
Everyone could choose a sweater they like best (like a dinosaur with a Santa hat) or all the girls wear one style while all the boys wear another. They even make baby onesies that are Christmas sweaters, and of course, sweaters for dogs as well.
Unique alternatives that are still festive
Don’t want matching pajamas? Won’t wear those sweaters again? If your family doesn’t want to do the usual or you just want to try something different for a year and see how it goes, there are fun alternatives.
Costumes
Are you that fun family? Costumes aren’t only for Halloween. Go Grinch-style, channel your inner Charlie Brown Christmas, or show everyone that A Christmas Story lives forever in your home by dressing in your favorite Christmas costume idea.
Funny tees or sweatshirts
Maybe you want to match, but not be so cutesy on the clothing. Find a Christmas-themed tee (Target usually has good ones) or sweatshirt with a saying, show, or movie your family loves, and everyone could wear the same one or a version that is related to the theme. It’s more casual and it’s something everyone will be able to wear over and over again.
Whether it’s sweaters or PJs, your family’s smiles are what matter most. Remember to have fun with it because even if the photo is more dressed up, you still want genuine cheer coming through. You want to be able to look back at the photo with a positive memory from a nice photoshoot, so be ready to make it as quick as possible for everyone before the toddler is done with sitting still.
Use props or take it outside, but whatever you do, keep it light. Let the kids play around and make sure to have some jokes ready to tell to keep the little ones engaged. No matter which matching Christmas outfit choice you pick, the holiday photo is going to look beautiful and you’ll have a memory to cherish for holidays to come.
Things to consider
There are a few things to consider when it comes to your outfit that will help ensure you get a family photo you love. First, regardless of the theme, make sure everyone is comfortable. Those matching sweatshirts may look great, but if they’re scratchy or itchy your little ones may have a hard time sitting long enough to get a great shot. You’ll also want to ensure everyone feels great in the outfit that has been chosen.
Sometimes you may have to compromise on colors or styles to ensure everyone feels like they look their best. It may be your dream to have a family picture with everyone in matching pajamas, but some family members may not be on board. Be flexible and compromise to ensure that everyone feels as great as they look!
