Pyjamas are festive outfit of choice

Less than a third of 2,000 people polled by supermarket Asda (30 per cent) say they will make a real effort to 'dress for dinner' on Christmas Day, with 51 per cent staying in their pyjamas all day.

George at Asda has reported a sharp rise in sales of traditional two-piece pyjamas which, for the first time in three years, are rivalling the infamous onesie to take the nightwear top spot.

Dressing gown sales are also up 200 per cent, with South Wales pinpointed as the most laid back region, stocking up on more nightwear than anywhere else ahead of Christmas.

The over 55s are the least likely to make an effort in terms of dressing up on December 25th, with 45 per cent wearing what they would on any other day while almost two-thirds (61 per cent) feel obliged to wear a clothing gift they disliked.

George At Asda said sales of novelty jumpers continue to rise, up 32 per cent year on year.

But one in six people (16 per cent) will go to extra lengths on Christmas Day, changing outfits up to three times: opening presents in pyjamas, changing for dinner and then once more for family visits or because they've over-eaten (10 per cent).

The South East is snapping up the most formal wear with Berkshire set to be suited and booted.

A spokesperson for George at Asda said: "Anything goes on Christmas Day, be it pyjamas, sequins, a knitted jumper or fancy dress, the main thing is that everyone feels comfortable and enjoys themselves.

"Christmas is the ultimate dress down day, but it is also the perfect day to wear something elaborate - there is no dress code."