Your guests arrive on Thursday at noon. The menu is planned, the wine list is ready, and you’ve decided on pecan instead of pumpkin…but have you planned how to dress for Thanksgiving? Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or attending an elaborate party, our Thanksgiving outfitting guide offers plenty of styling tips.

What should one wear for a day that is meant to be a celebration, but revolves around a massive meal?

dress for Thanksgiving

Outdoor Outfits

Depending on where you live, your Thanksgiving feast may be as Thanksgiving originated – a celebration of the harvest, held outdoors. This may mean cooler temperatures after the sun goes down, and potentially even damp conditions. Here’s where layers come in handy. Throw on your favorite jeans or khakis with your favorite shirt or light sweater, with a blazer or cardigan. 

It might also be the perfect time to pull out your plaid flannel shirt or a warm knit scarf! You can always wrap the scarf around cooler shoulders later in the evening or throw a sweater on and cozy up to the firepit. Stick to flat shoes or even your favorite comfy fall boots if you’re going to be on any uneven surface. Don’t forget that kids love to run around and play with their cousins at family gatherings. If you’re worried about them getting dirty, just pack some warm pajamas to change into for a cozy drive home!

The Casual Gathering

So you’ve been invited to a casual Thanksgiving – lucky you! For informal gatherings, we believe in celebrating comfort. Build your ensemble around the perfect pair of jeans – one with a high rise and just the right amount of stretch. The silhouette and wash are up to you. Top off your denim with a pretty blouse and an oh-so-cozy sweater, just in case it gets chilly. Going to a no-shoes household? Be sure to wear cute socks, too.

As Thanksgiving and football go hand in hand for men, so root for your team in casual wear before it’s time to eat. Not a football fan? No sweat. Casual clothes keep you relaxed for extended Thanksgiving visits with friends and family

The Marathon

You have a busy day ahead of you: an early meal with his family, a later dinner with yours, and Friendsgiving with your nearest and dearest at the end of the night. When you’re attending several events – and perhaps have a long drive and multiple dress codes to keep in mind – reach for a flowy tunic dress.

Rendered in satin or velvet, it’s elevated enough for special occasions, but just as comfortable as your favorite leggings. Style it with knee-high boots and layered necklaces for a casually chic look we love. For men a fall-friendly blazers and sweaters are at the top of the menu for how to dress for Thanksgiving. When getting dressed, look no further than a classic men’s blazer and pants combo. This elevated, yet understated pairing looks and feels great for any holiday gathering.

The Dressed-Up Dinner

Hosting a true dinner party and don’t know how to dress for Thanksgiving? Impress family and friends at a dressy Thanksgiving with your best attire. Arrange your haircut or style or get a professional shave ahead of the big event. Women should consider a tailored dress, nylons, and heels, or add a personal touch with patterned tights and a pop of color with colorful heels. If you prefer, dress pants or a skirt with a silk or satin blouse in a rich color is also perfectly appropriate. For men, wear a suit, dress shirt, and tie along with socks that match your shoe color.

But how to dress the kids? Dress little girls in a dress, tights, and mary-janes and your little boys in suit pants and a button-down shirt. Add a bow tie for an extra dose of adorable!

Now you know how to dress for Thanksgiving, so let’s talk about what you should avoid. If you are heading to a Thanksgiving dinner with a dress code, then definitely stick to it. For dinner plans without style stipulations, use your best judgment. Otherwise, what not to wear to Thanksgiving dinner really is a matter of comfort.

Typically, the holiday of thanks is one that tends to last long. After all, you can’t put a time limit on bonding with loved ones or giving thanks. Don’t arrive in a bulky sweater without thinking through your underlayers. Be prepared for any type of weather with short-sleeve T-shirts in a lightweight fabric. Thinking through your base and over layers will keep you feeling your best regardless of the activity or temperature. 

Whether you are going casual or dressing up in your Thursday best, stay comfortable. Avoid constrictive clothing. Stick to soft fabrics and clothes with stretch. There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable and restricted in your clothes after a big meal.