Not sure what to wear to Thanksgiving? The short answer: something cozy, polished and comfortable enough to sit through a long dinner. Think soft knits, midi lengths, relaxed waistbands and warm fall colors like burgundy, camel, cream and chocolate brown. Below you will find seven easy outfit formulas for every kind of Thanksgiving, from a relaxed family lunch to a dressier Friendsgiving, plus tips on shoes, layers and what to skip.
First, Match Your Outfit to the Plan
Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 26 this year, and every table has its own dress code. Before you choose an outfit, ask yourself three quick questions:
- Where is it? At home with family usually means relaxed; a restaurant or a host who loves to entertain calls for something a little sharper.
- How long will you be sitting? Hours at the table are the best argument for stretchy knits and soft waistbands over anything stiff or tight.
- Will you be helping in the kitchen or heading outside? Pick sleeves you can push up and add a layer you can take off.
Once you know the vibe, choose one of the formulas below.
1. Sweater Dress + Knee-High Boots
This is the easiest Thanksgiving outfit there is: one piece, zero thinking. The Belted Knit Midi Sweater Dress is a long-sleeve knit that falls below the knee, with a self-tie belt that defines the waist, so it looks put together without feeling restrictive. Add knee-high boots so no skin shows between hem and shaft, and you are warm from the car to the table. It comes in apricot, khaki and black.
2. The Matching Knit Set
If comfort is your top priority, a co-ord is your best friend. The Loose Knit Sweater and Wide Leg Pants Set pairs a loose long-sleeve sweater with matching wide-leg pants, so it feels like loungewear but reads as a complete outfit. To make it look intentional, keep accessories simple: small gold hoops, a sleek low bun and a structured bag. It is also a smart pick if you are traveling for the holiday, because it packs easily and works for the drive and the dinner.
3. Knit on Top, Satin Below
Mixing a soft knit with a fluid satin skirt is one of the simplest ways to look elevated without looking overdressed. The Rib Knit V-Neck Sweater and Satin Slip Skirt Set does the pairing for you: a relaxed V-neck rib knit with a satin slip maxi skirt that has an elastic waist (very welcome after second helpings). Choose ivory for a soft, light look or burgundy for a richer seasonal tone, and finish with ankle boots or simple heels.
4. Plaid Trousers + Cozy Sweater
Plaid is a fall classic for a reason, and wide-leg trousers keep it modern. Style the high-waisted Plaid Wide-Leg Trousers with a fitted knit tucked in, or with a cream sweater worn loose for a more relaxed look. Loafers or block-heel boots keep it practical. This is the outfit for the guest who wants to look polished at a restaurant dinner or a host's beautifully set table, without wearing a dress.
5. The Friendsgiving Formula: Chunky Knit + Leather Skirt
Friendsgiving tends to be a little more playful, so lean into contrast. Pair the Oversized Chunky Cable Knit Sweater, with its dropped shoulders and voluminous sleeves, with the Brown Faux Leather High-Waist Mini Pencil Skirt in chocolate faux leather. The oversized top balances the short, sleek skirt, and the texture mix looks expensive. Add tights and knee-high boots for a cold night.
6. The Dressed-Up Dinner: A Burgundy Knit Midi
If your family dresses up, or you are heading out after dinner, go for color. The Burgundy Off-Shoulder Ribbed Knit Midi Dress has a crossover off-shoulder neckline, long sleeves and a figure-hugging ribbed knit, so it feels festive but still cozy. Burgundy is a natural fit for the season and carries straight into the December holidays. Wear it with heels and a faux fur or wool-look coat.
7. Tonal Dressing: One Color, Head to Toe
A simple trick that always looks chic: wear different shades of the same color. Try cream on cream, camel with brown, or burgundy with wine. For example, the burgundy version of the knit and satin set from look 3 with the Burgundy Knee-High Block Heel Boots creates one long, elegant line, especially with a camel coat on top. Tonal outfits photograph beautifully, which matters when everyone gathers for the family picture.
Shoes: Comfortable Beats Statement
You might be on your feet in the kitchen, walking from the car or chasing little cousins in the backyard, so pick shoes you can wear for hours. Block-heel or flat knee-high boots, ankle boots and loafers all work. Save stilettos for an evening event afterwards. Browse our boots and heels to find a pair that works with all of the looks above.
Layering for Thanksgiving Weather
Late November can be cold outside and very warm inside, especially near a busy oven. Dress in layers you can remove: a knit over a camisole, a cardigan over a dress, or a coat you can hang up at the door. Our knitwear collection is full of sweaters and cardigans that slip easily over dresses and sets.
What Not to Wear to Thanksgiving
- Anything too tight at the waist. Choose belts you can loosen, elastic waistbands or relaxed fits.
- Delicate white fabrics if you are cooking. Gravy and cranberry sauce are not your friends.
- Very long, wide sleeves at the table. They are lovely, but they can end up in the mashed potatoes.
- Brand-new shoes you have never worn. Break them in first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colors should I wear to Thanksgiving?
Warm, earthy tones are a natural fit: burgundy, rust, camel, chocolate brown, olive, cream and oatmeal. Black and grey always work too, especially with a warm accent like a burgundy boot.
Is a dress or pants better for Thanksgiving?
Either one works. A knit midi dress feels effortless and comfortable for a long meal, while wide-leg trousers or a matching knit set are great if you will be cooking, playing games or traveling.
How do I look cozy but still dressed up?
Keep the fabrics soft and the shapes clean. A sweater dress with a defined waist, a knit paired with satin, or a single color worn head to toe all feel comfortable while looking polished.
Whatever your plans, the best Thanksgiving outfit is the one that lets you relax, eat well and enjoy the people around you. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The Woman Concept.
