Hands up, what’s one of the best things about the festive season? While we love glamming up for parties, sometimes snuggling up on the sofa and watching a Christmas movie wins. Even better, if it happens to be a romantic Christmas movie. Over the last few years, the popularity of the romantic festive film genre has really snowballed, which proves people simply adore a wintery love story.
Here’s our rundown of the top 5 romantic Christmas movies, including fashion tips to hone leading lady energy.
No.1: The Holiday
Come on, would it be Christmas without watching this 2006 classic rom-com? Movie trailer producer Amanda (Cameron Diaz) and newspaper columnist Iris (Kate Winslet) both have man-problems, so they swap houses via the internet to escape their heartbreak. Amanda finds herself in a cosy Surrey cottage where she meets local lad Graham (Jude Law), meanwhile Iris makes herself at home in a huge California mansion and meets local lad Miles (Jack Black). Can the women find a way to mend their broken hearts and have some festive fun along the way?
Steal Amanda’s style: Amanda’s cream coloured wardrobe is playful with textures and makes for a timeless look – we’re talking cream knitwear, silk shirts, and faux fur coats. This Faux Fur Coat in Cream by Fore is the dream – snuggly and stylish.
Steal Iris’s style: A little black dress is a wardrobe must-have, as Iris knows. Sparkle the night away in this Black Sequin Embellished Dress by Stella.
No 2: When Harry Met Sally
Not strictly a Christmas romance movie as it spans many years and seasons, but this 1989 rom-com is a beauty and features some lovely festive scenes. Sally (Meg Ryan) and Harry (Billy Crystal) meet when they share a lift from college at the University of Chicago, to New York where the graduates are about to start their new lives. On the journey they argue about whether men and women can just be friends. Over the years they cross paths and eventually become friends, but the answer to their earlier argument could be settled when friendship turns to romance!
Steal Sally’s style: ‘Meg Ryan Fall’ was an autumnal TikTok trend which nods to the rom-com queen’s 80s and 90s attire in her movies including When Harry Met Sally. Statement knitwear is one of Sally’s signature looks, try this Pull Oversize Sweater in Rust By Made in Sens.
No 3: A Christmas Prince
Don’t be put off by the reviews, if you’re looking for a light-hearted festive romance and like to fantasise about being treated like royalty – A Christmas Prince (2017) is just the ticket. American magazine journalist Amber (Rose McIver) flies to fictional foreign nation Aldovia to get the inside scoop on ‘playboy’ Prince Richard (Ben Lamb). However, when she’s mistaken for the tutor of Richard’s little sister Princess Emily, Amber keeps up the pretence in order to get her story. Will she get more than she bargained for as sparks fly between her and Richard?
Spoiler alert, there are two sequels: A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding and A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby.
Steal Amber’s style: This gorgeous White Silk Bodysuit Blouse by Kands London is fit for a princess, the blouse is made from 100% silk and is expertly tailored.
No 4: Last Christmas
Named after the classic 80s festive hit, and inspired by the music of beloved pop band Wham! and George Michael, this film sees disenchanted Christmas shop assistant Kate (Emilia Clarke) form a relationship with mysterious Tom (Henry Golding). There are some pleasing twists and turns in this 2019 Christmas rom-com, which also stars Emma Thompson. It features beautiful scenes of London, including Covent Garden, where Kate works – a place close to our heart as this was the location of Libre London’s pop-up shop earlier in 2023.
Steal Kate’s style: During a lot of the film she’s dressed as an elf, but also rocks statement outerwear– from an animal print faux fur coat to a red biker jacket. Make a statement in this Molly Maroon Faux Leather Coat by Amy Lynn.
No 5: A Castle for Christmas
We can’t deny this 2021 movie is cheesier than an oozing of round of Camembert, but it’s entertaining and full of festive cheer. Famed US author and divorcee, Sophie (Brooke Shields), travels to Scotland to escape backlash from readers over the ending of her latest novel – she killed off the leading man. Sophie enjoys bonding with the locals and exploring her Scottish heritage – and finds herself wanting to buy a castle. As she comes up against the owner, a cash-strapped and frosty Scottish Duke called Myles (Cary Elwes), will this spark an unlikely romance?
Steal Sophie’s style: Tartan figures prominently in Sophie’s wardrobe for obvious reasons. These Italian Classic Tartan Pattern Fashion Tights by Italiana to add extra interest to your winter attire.