From Linkin Park throwback tees to Tumblrcore-ready footwear: The best in alternative style this month

It’s December, the pop-punk Christmas playlist is on repeat, and my Slipknot festive jumper is ready for its annual outing. So if you're looking for last-minute gifts or just to freshen up your holiday fit, I'm raring to go!

If you're new here, my name's Kitty and I'm a lifelong greebo, emo, and hardcore kid who became a fashion stylist. Over the years, I've styled music videos and photoshoots for a bunch of your favourite artists – you've probably seen my work on the cover of Kerrang! with acts like Enter Shikari, NOAHFINNCE, Scene Queen and Fall Out Boy.

And at this time of year, I'm here help you with gift ideas for your significant other, bestie or punk rock dad. Or maybe a little treat for yourself! From high-end merch to alt. disco shoes, there's a lot going on…

UK-based alternative, premium streetwear brand Other have partnered with Linkin Park to create a limited-edition collection that fuses iconic rock imagery with cutting-edge design. Drawing inspiration from the band's groundbreaking Hybrid Theory, the range reimagines that legendary cover art on Other’s signature vintage tees and hoodies, alongside an oversized T-shirt that channels the nostalgic spirit of the ’90s. Their T-shirts are such good quality – I can’t stress this enough!

Rounding out the collection, Other pay tribute to the emotional intensity of Linkin Park’s generation-defining anthem Crawling, reworking its artwork into a bold new design for an oversized hoodie.

This collection represents a seamless blend of alt. music and fashion, celebrating both the enduring legacy of Linkin Park and Other's distinctive streetwear aesthetic. Not to mention the casual-but-premium aspect of the collection's design, giving a perfect nod to nu-metal culture.

Their pieces are on the higher-end of the merch price point, but the quality and individuality of the collection makes it worth the wallet pinch. These are pieces that will last forever and make you stand out from the crowd. Sometimes you deserve a treat – especially at Christmas…

Like Cinderella meets punk rock, Dr. Martens have unveiled a stunning collection of silver styles just in time for Christmas, reimagining their classics with a playful twist – ideal for turning heads at your work party, or making a statement at any festive gig.

First up, the Kasey knee-high boot is impossible to ignore. Featuring a black flared heel and sole, paired with a slouchy silver leather upper, this boot is an undeniable statement piece – designed to stand out on the dancefloor or in the pit. Finished with the signature Dr. Martens scripted heel loop and signature yellow stitching, these boots exude the brand’s rebellious spirit with a festive flair.

Next up is the shoe of the season: the Penton Loafer. This sleek shoe has been reimagined in striking silver leather atop a chunky black quad sole. The updated design features a bold metal-branded band across the front, adding an extra touch of shine to make them truly stand out.

Finally, the beloved Jadon boot gets a holiday makeover in metallic silver. This version comes with an all-black sole, no yellow stitching, and silver details throughout, offering a more refined yet equally bold take on the classic. I don’t know many alternative fashion enthusiasts who don’t already own a pair of Jadons, but now they can have a special edition made just for the winter!

Obviously, Converse is a staple brand for the alternative scene, even if it does feel like we've been ignored for a little while. But earlier this year they finally brought back the knee-high All Star boots and alt. kids around the world rejoiced!

For Christmas they've released a few variations including a heeled pair, which I know you are going to love. These are the Chuck 70 De Luxe Heel High in a shiny black, featuring mono black leather buckles and also have memory foam cushioning! So we can look badass and not break our backs at the same time.

Converse have also released the Chuck Taylor All Star Hi in white, which would be a great pop of, erm, ‘colour’ for some of your all-black wardrobes. They also have a chunky low pair called the Chuck Taylor All Star Cruise Low with a super chunky black sole that are giving nu-metal, early 2000s vibes. And if you are feeling really edgy, there’s even a Chuck Taylor All Star Wedge you can try. Tumblrcore is coming back hard in 2025 – are you ready to embrace it?

UK premium brand AllSaints have long been a cornerstone of the rock-inspired wardrobe, with their leather jackets gracing the backs of countless artists over the years. However, their latest collection ventures into darker, more gothic territory, while also embracing an elevated skater aesthetic. This year, they’ve expanded their range with wider-cut jeans, bold graphic tees, and retro bowling shirts that are making waves in the streetwear scene. It’s a fresh take, and I dig it!

Despite these new influences, AllSaints remain the undisputed champion of the polished rock look. Their Christmas collection is a testament to this, offering everything from stylish gifts for loved ones to outfits perfect for holiday season get-togethers. A standout piece is undoubtedly the Goth sweater, which will surely resonate with all you K! readers. Other highlights include the Neko leopard-print cardigan, Oscillation shirt, and the Scripture jumper in the men's section (although, let's face it, style knows no gender). In the women’s collection the Livvi corset, Aspen trousers, and Ariella skirt are party staples.

Of course, AllSaints' legendary leather jackets – available in both men’s and women’s cuts – continue to make a statement. For those in search of unique gifts, the brand also offer an impressive selection of jewellery and fragrances. And honestly, who wouldn’t love to unwrap an AllSaints gift card this Christmas?

I can’t do a Kerrang! Christmas style column without mentioning every alt. subculture’s most aligning brand, Vans. Emo kids all over the world are writing to Santa asking for a pair of black Old Skools right now, but what else is on offer?

They have you covered with their classic styles like the Old Skool, Authentics and slip-on trainers, but now in premium versions (a bit more cushion). I also really love their Mary Janes. I bought myself a pair at the beginning of the year and made a prediction they would be very popular – and I wasn’t wrong! And not forgetting their utterly Y2K, nu-metal inspired Knu Skool trainers, which are so cushioned and comfortable. If you are an elder emo, I am advising you – for the sake of your knees – to transition into the Knu Skools. You will thank me.

There are also jumpers, fleeces, bags and jackets. Need I mention that a classic Vans beanie is a great present for anyone? I’ve literally got one for my bestie this Christmas. And if you are in London and fancy doing that IRL shopping experience thing, their flagship store has opened on Oxford Street. It’s massive and it features a huge skate ramp! Need to drag a skateboarding friend shopping? On specific days you will be able to drop them off with a board at the new store – it’s like daycare for skateboarding partners!

The store will feature a restock of some of Vans' most coveted and limited-edition collections from past years. From the likes of OTW by Vans x Parra, Vans x BAPE, OTW by Vans x Undercover, as well as UK skate collaborations like Helena Long’s 2023 collection and the Safe Low, designed by Rory Milanes and Danny Brady. So, if you missed out the first time, you have another chance! Something that doesn’t happen a lot in the sneaker world.

Read this next:

• 5 UK streetwear brands you need to know right now
• The 20 greatest Linkin Park songs – ranked
• An oral history of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater soundtrack, by Tony Hawk and John Feldmann