A Fun Yarn

WITH techtastic toys, musical numbers and amazing giveaways, the Late Late Toy Show on December 2 is set to mesmerise more than a million kids and big kids throughout the land.

But forget the gadgets and celebrity guests — it’s presenter Ryan Tubridy’s pullover that’s sure to be the biggest talking point.

Last year, an Irish-made Rudolf the Ryandeer jumper worn by Tubridy, ironically became the most coveted thing on the toy show. And while he’s keeping his choice of knitwear for this year’s show under wraps, host Ryan has revealed he’ll up the ante-lers in another goofy Christmas geansaí.

But don’t worry, from designer festive knits to cheesy Christmas sweaters, there’s one for everyone in the audience.

In our festive photo shoot for men, comedian Joe Rooney rocks some of the seasonal styles that could feature on the Late Late Toy Show.

“I love Christmas jumpers, but the older I get, the harder it is to look like I’m wearing them in an ironic manner,” jokes stand-up comedian and actor Joe, who’s currently touring the country with The Kings of Comedy.

“Instead, I just end up looking like Val Doonican — especially as I tend to sit in a rocking chair with a guitar, singing ‘O’Rafferty’s Motor Car’ over and over!”

Here, he gives his guide to the best Christmas geansaís for guys:

* 1. Snowman with 3D carrot nose jumper, €49.99 from www.christmasjumperking.com.

Joe says: “A practical Christmas jumper with a 3D carrot nose — handy for hanging your car keys and repelling relatives who try to hug you.”

* 2. Elf jumper, €44.99 and elf hat with ears, €3.99 from www.thecostumeshop.ie

Joe says: “This jumper and matching hat says: ‘Hey, look at me! I’m great craic...and an awful eejit.”

* 3.Cosy reindeer jumper, €39.99 from www.christmasjumperking.com

Joe says: “The rolled-up turtle neck is perfect for hiding your face as you attempt to pilfer gifts from under the Christmas tree.”

* 4.Green polo shirt, €5 from Penneys nationwide (see www.primark.ie) and Hello Penguin jumper, €39.99 from www.funkychristmasjumpers.com

Joe says: “For the environmentally-conscious singleton — the penguin is a great ice-breaker at the office Christmas party.”

* 5.Check shirt, €99.90 from Tommy Hilfiger, 13-14 Grafton Street, Dublin 2 and Tommy Hilfiger nationwide (see www.shoptommy.ie) and Rudolph the Ryandeer Jumper, €39.99 from www.funkychristmasjumpers.com

Joe says: “A winning combination of designer shirt and reindeer jumper that asks: ‘Recession? What recession?”

* 6. Multi-grey snow handknit jumper, €312 from Hackett, 21-26 South Anne Street, Dublin 2.

Joe says: “Look out, ladies! You’re stranded in an Alpine log cabin — but wait, what’s that? Someone’s coming — it’s Jumperman to the rescue! With his Yule log and toasted nuts, you’ll want to be rescued again and again.”

* 7.Check shirt, €99.90 from Tommy Hilfiger, 13-14 Grafton Street, Dublin 2 and Tommy Hilfiger nationwide (see www.shoptommy.ie) and The Dougal sleeveless jumper, €39.99 from www.christmasjumperking.com Joe says: “A pullover for today’s nice young man with a side parting.”

* 8.Cedarwood State black polo neck, €8 and white jumper, €15 from Penneys nationwide (see www.primark.ie).

Joe says: “Classic black and white Christmas combo that screams: “I’m wealthy, mysterious and can’t resist a high-street bargain.”

Joe Rooney is currently touring Ireland with The Kings of Comedy alongside Kevin McAleer and Barry Murphy. Kings of Comedy runs from Friday December 2 to Saturday December 3, at City Limits Comedy Club, Cork. Tickets €20 – see www.thecomedyclub.ie. For further tour dates, see www.facebook.com/joerooneyexecutivecomedian or follow @joerooney1 on Twitter.

nShot on location at the Westin Dublin, College Green, Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2. www.thewestindublin.com