These Outfit Formulas Are My Secret to Looking Chic on Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving swiftly approaching, I’ve been daydreaming about consuming copious amounts of candied yams and sage stuffing (my favorite home-cooked holiday meal), as well as about what I'm wearing to the dinner table. After all, getting dressed for the occasion is part of what makes the feasting frenzy so fun.

Although my family’s Thanksgiving dress code is fairly casual (roomy sweatpants and snug slippers are highly encouraged), I often err on the side of sophistication, just because I love any excuse to get dolled up. That said, I try to avoid wearing anything too stuffy—after all, my ideal Thanksgiving outfit has to be comfortable enough for the mandatory post-meal nap on the couch.

If you’re on the same style page, you’re in luck: I’ve created an edit of versatile Thanksgiving outfits that strike that balance between ease and elegance. Keep scrolling, and you’ll find cozy knit dresses paired with cushioned kitten-heeled boots, fuzzy sweaters styled alongside roomy slip skirts, and cable-knit cardigans teamed with polished wide-leg jeans. Use this as a guide so you don’t have to stress about what to wear. That way, all your energy can go into eating, drinking, and being merry.

Easy-to-Style Sweater Dress

There’s nothing I love more than a streamlined outfit formula. If you also consider yourself a minimalist, try out this one plush sweater dress, plus a pair of standard black boots, plus a trendy shoulder bag.

Festive Fair Isle

Thanksgiving offers the perfect opportunity to get dressed in your favorite fall essentials. So, pull out your favorite Fair Isle sweater, and style it in roomy denim bottoms and glossy penny loafers.

Beloved Burgundy

I’ve said it once, and I'll say it again and again: Burgundy isn’t going anywhere. This fashion-favorite color trend looks best in the fall, so embrace it at your Thanksgiving dinner table. This look masterfully blends the shade with dark neutrals.

Rich-Mom Energy

This street style outfit practically screams “rich mom.” If you’re in the mood for opulence, follow suit with a lengthy coat and a sweater dress. Instead of sky-high platforms, choose a pair of kitten heels that are easy to move around in.

Keep It Neutral

When all else fails, you can always count on a polished neutral outfit combination—a straightforward gray sweater, a black mini skirt, and a pair of edgy moto boots won't let you down. For extra warmth, finish off your look with tights and a sharp double-breasted coat.

A Loud Statement

Prepare to receive endless compliments from your family and friends with an eye-catching dress plastered in prints. Enhance your outfit with bold ‘80s-inspired jewelry and a hardware-adorned designer handbag.

A Fall Twist on Summer Pants

Yes, you can wear white after Labor Day—just mix it with your fall basics for a polished Thanksgiving dinner outfit. Take this look, for example, which features white jeans styled beside a wool sweater and grounding Chelsea boots.

Sumptuous Satin

A satin slip skirt is inherently refined. Pair it with a coordinating knit top if you want an expensive-looking Thanksgiving outfit; gold jewelry and sleek black accessories take it to the next level.

Playful Prep

Play into the preppy outfits trend for Thanksgiving by layering a cardigan over a crisp button-down shirt. Don’t forget to toss on a pleated skirt; for extra style points, pull on a pair of knee-high socks.

Bundle Up

If you’re traveling for Thanksgiving, an extra layer on the road is always a good idea. An oversized leather jacket trimmed in shearling will do the trick.

Cozy Corduroy

I’ve been seeing corduroy outerwear everywhere lately. Swap out your barn jacket and try this fall-ready layer. For outfit inspiration, reference the stylish outfit pictured above.

Thigh-Skimming Hemlines

Assuming your Thanksgiving dress code is informal, slip into an above-the-knee skirt. The key to making this outfit work is to balance the abbreviated hemline with oversized separates, like a spacious sweater and a slouchy jacket.

Leopard Print Revival

I’m not a huge fan of wearing patterns, but after seeing this bold dress, I’m set on leaning into the wild leopard print trend. As for the rest of my look, I’ll stick with solid colors to let the dress do the talking.

Comfort Is Key

On its own, a knit zip-up is relatively casual. However, you can easily elevate it with roomy tailored trousers. Ground this foolproof pairing with sharp ankle boots.

Inherently Simple

For those of you who plan to spend your entire Thanksgiving morning cooking in the kitchen, you likely won’t have the time to piece together an intricate outfit. Don’t stress—this uncomplicated getup will get you through the day.