What to Wear for Thanksgiving: Your Guide to Being Comfy, Stylish, and Sane

by John Griffith
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After more than a decade helping families get dressed for big events, I can tell you one thing for sure: Thanksgiving is a special kind of challenge. It’s this wonderful holiday centered on food and family, but there’s often a quiet pressure to look, you know, put together. I’ve seen that pressure lead to some pretty uncomfortable choices.

I once worked with a family who went all-in on matching plaid outfits. They looked fantastic for that one perfect photo, but by noon? The baby had spit up on his, the toddler had a perfect gravy handprint on his pants, and the mom was absolutely roasting in a hot kitchen wearing a thick wool sweater. It was a classic case of a great picture, but a long, uncomfortable day.

That taught me everything. The best Thanksgiving outfit isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being practical, comfortable, and feeling good in your own skin. So, if you’re already feeling overwhelmed, here’s your foolproof quick win: a dark-colored sweater dress, some cozy tights, and ankle boots. It’s chic, comfy, and hides spills. You’re done.

mustard yellow shorts, worn with black opaque tights, a sheer black blouse, and a black fur trimmed gilet, thanksgiving outfits

For everyone else who wants to dig a little deeper, this guide is my professional advice on choosing clothes for the real-life mess and joy of the holiday. Let’s talk fabrics that forgive, layering that works, and dressing the kids without the drama.

First Things First: Let’s Talk Fabrics

Before we even get to style, we have to talk about the materials your clothes are made of. This is the foundation of all-day comfort, especially when you’re dealing with a Thanksgiving-level thermal challenge—moving from a chilly morning to a sweltering kitchen, to a warm dining room, and back again.

Your Best Fabric Friends for the Feast

Not all materials are created equal for a long day of eating and socializing. Here’s my breakdown of what works and what to avoid.

Merino Wool: This is my number one recommendation, hands down. And no, I’m not talking about that scratchy wool from your childhood. Fine-grade merino is incredibly soft, breathable, and a bit of a miracle worker. It wicks moisture away from your skin, so if you get a little sweaty hustling in the kitchen, you won’t feel damp and gross. It also helps regulate your temperature. Seriously. A good merino sweater is an investment, but it will serve you way better than a cheap acrylic one. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 at a place like Quince to over $150 at J.Crew or other specialty retailers.

patent leather clutch bag in gold, dark green velvet mini dress, with bell sleeves, thanksgiving outfits, black ankle boots, with beaded embroidery

Tencel and Lyocell: Oh yeah, these are the good ones. They’re modern fabrics made from wood pulp, and they feel incredibly soft and drapey. They’re more absorbent than cotton and resist wrinkles like a champ, so you’ll still look fresh after hours of sitting. I often suggest these for blouses or dresses when you want to feel a little elegant without the fussy maintenance of silk. You can find great pieces at stores like Everlane, Banana Republic, and sometimes even in Target’s higher-end collections.

Cotton (with a Caveat): We all love cotton. It’s soft, breathable, and easy. But you have to know its weakness: once it gets wet, whether from a spill or sweat, it gets cold and takes forever to dry. A cotton t-shirt under your apron is totally fine, but I’d be cautious about it being your main top if you tend to run hot.

Synthetics (Use with Care): Polyester, acrylic, and nylon are durable and stain-resistant, which is great. And honestly, a little bit of spandex or elastane in your pants is non-negotiable on Thanksgiving. Look for at least 2% stretch in your jeans or trousers. Trust me. The problem is with 100% synthetic sweaters or tops—they just don’t breathe. You’ll feel like you’re in a personal greenhouse. Use them for stretch, not as your main layer.

thanksgiving outfits, plaid blanket scarf, in beige and red, black and white, worn over a burgundy mini dress, with pale grey ankle boots

So, to sum it up: For top-tier breathability and temp control, merino is your luxury pick ($$$). For a silky feel that resists wrinkles, Tencel is your stylish mid-range option ($$). And for affordable, easy basics, cotton is your reliable pal ($).

The Simple Art of Smart Layering

Layering is the secret weapon for Thanksgiving temperature swings. The goal is to be able to add or remove a piece without having a full-on wardrobe malfunction.

Here’s how the pros do it:

  1. Base Layer: This is what’s next to your skin. Make it something thin and soft, like a simple tank or a thin long-sleeved tee in a cotton-modal blend. Heads up: make sure it’s something you wouldn’t mind being seen in if you get too hot and need to take your sweater off!
  2. Mid Layer: This is your main outfit piece—your merino sweater, flannel shirt, or knit dress. It provides warmth and style.
  3. Outer Layer: Think of this as your optional accessory. A cozy cardigan, a sharp blazer, or a beautiful shawl works perfectly. It’s for the cooler moments or for when you’re relaxing after the meal.

This system lets you adapt on the fly. It’s so much better than being stuck in a single, chunky sweater that’s either on (and you’re sweating) or off (and you’re cold).

patterned semi-sheer blouse, and slightly flared dark blue jeans, worn by a smiling brunette woman, thanksgiving outfits, with black felt hat, and black cross body bag

Putting It All Together: A Stylist’s Take on Adult Outfits

Okay, with the practical stuff sorted, let’s make you look good. My philosophy is to focus on a strong silhouette, rich textures, and a controlled color palette. It’s how you get that effortless look without trying too hard.

Are You Hosting or a Guest?

Your job for the day completely changes your outfit needs. Be honest about what you’ll be doing.

For the Host: Your priorities are comfort and function. You’re going to be bending, lifting, and probably spilling. Dark colors or subtle patterns are your best friend because they hide stains. I love corduroy or dark-wash denim with stretch for pants. And your shoes MUST be comfortable—this is non-negotiable. Stylish loafers, clean leather sneakers, or low-heeled ankle boots are perfect. And please, avoid long, flowing sleeves that could get dragged through food or, worse, become a fire hazard near the stove. It’s a serious safety tip I always give.

fluffy pom pom, on a pale cream knitted hat, worn by a young brunette woman, with long curled hair, thanksgiving outfits, oatmeal chunky knit jumper, black skinny jeans, and a designer shoulder bag

For the Guest: You get to have a little more fun with lighter colors and more delicate fabrics. A knit dress in a rich fall color like burgundy, forest green, or mustard is a fantastic one-and-done outfit. Pair it with tights and boots, and you’re set. For something a bit more casual, think tailored trousers in wool or heavy cotton paired with a cashmere-blend sweater. Polished, but so, so relaxed.

The Secret Weapon: Texture

Want to look sophisticated and put-together? Mix your textures. Combining different textures in similar colors makes an outfit look intentional and expensive.

Here’s a simple formula to try:

  • One soft texture: Think cashmere, a fuzzy alpaca-blend knit, or soft merino.
  • One structured texture: Denim, corduroy, or a crisp twill.
  • One smooth texture: A leather belt, a silk-blend camisole, or polished boots.

For example, you could pull together a pair of dark-wash Madewell jeans (structured), a cozy cream sweater from a store like Everlane (soft), and finish it with smooth, polished leather boots and a belt. See? It’s a simple combination that instantly creates a look with depth.

wine jumper dress, with a side slit, worn with dark brown sueded boots, and a brown leather bag, thanksgiving outfits, brunette woman with long curled hair

Let’s Talk Pants (and Leggings)

To be frank, the best Thanksgiving pants are the ones that are still comfortable after a second helping of pie. We’re looking for pants with a forgiving waist. High-waisted styles with stretch, comfy ponte-knit trousers, or even chic wide-leg knit pants are your best friends. No one wants to spend the evening fighting with a rigid waistband.

And yes, let’s answer the question everyone is thinking: Can you wear leggings? Absolutely! The key is to treat them like very opaque tights, not pants. Just make sure you pair them with a longer top, like a tunic sweater or a dress that hits at least mid-thigh. This keeps the look feeling polished and pulled-together, not like you just came from the gym.

Common Thanksgiving Style Traps to Sidestep

Over the years, I’ve seen a few common mistakes pop up again and again. Here’s how to avoid them.

forest green oversized shirt, with rolled up sleeves, worn over black, leather look leggings, thanksgiving outfits, black high heels
  • The All-or-Nothing Sweater. This is that one super-thick sweater that’s either way too hot or not warm enough. The fix? Use the three-layer system we talked about!
  • Stiff, Brand-New Jeans. Thanksgiving is not the day to break in rigid denim. The fix? Opt for pants with at least 2% elastane for stretch, or go with a forgiving knit dress.
  • Forgetting the Apron Factor. You pick a cute outfit with a high neck or delicate collar, only to realize your apron strings mess it all up. The fix? A simple crewneck or V-neck top works best if you’ll be wearing an apron for a long time.
  • The ‘Guest’ Shoes Agony. You think you’ll just be sitting, but end up standing and mingling for hours in painful heels. The fix? Stick to stylish flats, low block heels, or chic loafers you know you can last in for five-plus hours.

Dressing Kids Without All the Drama

Getting kids dressed for a special occasion can feel like gearing up for battle. My best advice? Surrender the idea of perfection. A happy, comfy kid in a simple outfit is always, always better than a fussy kid in a fancy one.

three examples of thanksgiving outfits for women, dark grey leggings, and a brown leather jacket, black mini skirt and jumper, black skinny trousers and a fur gilet

A Practical Approach for Every Age

Babies (0-12 months): Comfort is everything. Honestly, the best outfit is a high-quality, super-soft footed sleeper or a two-piece set in a festive color like deep red or forest green. It’s cute, practical for diaper changes, and they can nap comfortably. A little turkey-themed bib for the photos is all the accessory you need. You can find adorable and affordable options at places like H&M or Old Navy.

Toddlers (1-4 years): This age is all about mess and mobility. Soft knit leggings or stretchy cords with a comfy long-sleeved shirt are perfect. For a dressier vibe, a soft knit sweater dress over leggings gives them total freedom to run around. Quick tip: Only buy things that are machine washable. Trust me.

The Coordinated Family Look: A Reality Check

So many people want that perfectly matching family photo. It’s a sweet idea, but it’s often more stressful (and expensive) than it’s worth. Finding one pattern in sizes for everyone is a nightmare.

cable knit jumper in orange, worn with blue skinny jeans, and tall brown leather boots, by a smiling brunette woman, holding a designer bag,thanksgiving outfits for women

I propose a much better way: coordinate your color palette.

Instead of matching, pick a family of 3-4 complementary colors—like navy, camel, cream, and a pop of burgundy. Dad could wear navy pants and a camel sweater. Mom could wear a cream dress with a burgundy scarf. The kids can wear pieces in any of those colors. The result is a family that looks beautifully cohesive and stylish, not like they’re all wearing a uniform. It’s a more sophisticated and affordable approach that lets everyone’s personality shine through.

A Final Check and One Last Thought

A few days before the big day, do a quick dress rehearsal. It’s a little habit that eliminates so much last-minute panic.

Your Pre-Holiday Checklist:

  • Lay it all out. Put the entire outfit for each family member together—shoes and accessories included.
  • Do a fit check. Do those “good pants” still fit comfortably after a year? Did the kids have a growth spurt?
  • Look for flaws. Check for small stains, a loose button, or a fallen hem. This gives you time for a quick fix.
  • Check the kids’ gear. Make sure you have the matching socks or tights. Nothing starts a holiday morning with more chaos than a frantic search for a missing sock.

I want to end with a quick story. For my son’s first Thanksgiving, I bought him this gorgeous (and frankly, expensive) little cable-knit sweater. He looked perfect. I got one great photo. Ten minutes later, he discovered the pure joy of mashing sweet potatoes into every available surface, and that sweater was a bright orange disaster. For a split second, I was annoyed. But then, looking at his happy, messy face, I realized that stain was now part of the memory.

thanksgiving outfits for women, long polo neck jumper dress, in grey melange, worn with beige, suede ankle boots, and a white cardigan, featuring cream and grey stripes

The whole point of planning your outfit is to remove the stress so you can be fully present. Your clothes are there to serve you, not the other way around. They should keep you comfortable and confident, and if a little gravy gets on your sleeve… well, that’s just a sign of a holiday well-lived.

Inspiration Gallery

ribbed long sleeveless polo neck jumper, in light brown, worn over a white top, thanksgiving outfits for women, skinny dark blue jeans, yellow high heels
baggy and long, pale grey jumper, over an oversized white shirt, thanksgiving outfits for women, brunette woman with long hair, wearind tall suede, dark brown boots
beige suede boots, and a button up mini skirt, in a similar color, worn with a white polo neck jumper, and a quilted cream gilet, thanksgiving outfits for women, on a smiling blonde woman, with long hair
examples of thanksgiving outfits for women, eight different styles, burgundy ankle trousers, skinny jeans with a jumper and a scarf, and many more

Consider a monochromatic outfit in an unexpected autumnal hue. While classic camel and brown are beautiful, a head-to-toe look in deep forest green, rich burgundy, or even a muted navy creates an incredibly chic and intentional silhouette. The key is to vary the textures—think a cashmere sweater with silk-blend trousers in the same color family. It’s a simple strategy for instant elegance.

chunky knit off-white scarf, worn over a brown cardigan, and a ditsy mini dress, by a blonde young woman, thanksgiving outfits for women, tall dark red leather boots
animal print clutch bag, a mink grey melange jumper dress, black leather trousers, and blue skinny jeans, a white shirt and a cream jumper, boots and a brown bag, thanksgiving outfits for women, stylish ideas
comfy outfits, striped black and white t-shirt dress, worn by a slim, young blonde girl, with tall brown leather boots, and white and grey over-the-knee socks

The secret to staying polished while hosting?

It’s all in the details. Keep a stylish, functional apron handy—a cross-back linen model from a brand like Hedley & Bennett won’t mess up your outfit. Swap heels for elegant yet supportive flats, like Birdies’ ‘The Starling’, which have seven layers of cushioning. Finally, keep a Tide to Go pen in your pocket. It’s the holy trinity of a graceful host.

purple jumper dress, and black suede, over-the-knee boots, on a slim brunette woman, wearing a large black felt hat, comfy outfits
creamy grey tall suede boots, on a smiling brunette woman, with short wavy hair, dressed in a red patterned mini dress, comfy outfits for the holidays
white long sleeved jumper mini dress, comfy outfits, combined with a plaid scarf, chunky red socks, and knee-high brown leather boots

More than 70% of clothing fibers are now synthetic. For a long day like Thanksgiving, prioritize natural, breathable fibers to avoid overheating.

This means checking the label. A sweater might look cozy, but if it’s 100% acrylic, you’ll be sweltering in a warm kitchen. A cotton, merino, or cashmere blend will regulate your temperature, keeping you comfortable whether you’re by the oven or relaxing on the couch.

cute thanksgiving outfits, mother and small daughter, dressed in identical clothes, tall beige leather boots, black skinny jeans, light blue chambrays, and checkered scarves
son and mother, sitting side by side, dressed in similar outfits, patterned shirts in white and dark blue, identical navy cable knit vests, with matching pins, and blue jeans
stars in red, on identical black jumpers, worn with red mini skirts, by a mother and a daughter, toddler thanksgiving outfit, coordinated looks
daughter and mother holding hands, dressed in almost identical, cute thanksgiving outfits, long pale grey jumpers, with quarter sleeves, over white mini skirts

The ‘Third Piece’ Rule: This is the stylist’s shortcut to a ‘complete’ outfit. Your top and bottoms are the first two pieces. Adding a third—like a tailored knit blazer, a long-line cardigan, or a chic vest—instantly elevates the look. It adds dimension and polish, turning a simple T-shirt and jeans into a purposeful ensemble.

mother and small daughter, wearing the same sleeveless, navy blue dresses, with pleated skirts, over white shirts, with striped blue and white ribbon ties, cute thanksgiving outfits for kids
gold polka dots, on identical black skirts, worn by a mother and her small daughter, toddler thanksgiving outfit, similar white t-shirts, and different black shoes
leopard print tops, in white and black and brown, worn with white leggings, and black hats, by a smiling mother, and her young daughter

Beyond the clothes themselves, the right accessories are your best friend for adding a festive touch without sacrificing comfort.

  • Statement Earrings: They draw attention to your face and add sparkle, even if you’re just in a simple sweater.
  • A Silk Scarf: Tied at the neck or to your handbag, it injects color and a touch of luxury.
  • A High-Quality Belt: Cinch a sweater dress or define the waist of high-rise trousers for a more structured look.
cherry print in white, on navy blue jumpers, worn by a mother and daughter duo, cute thanksgiving outfits, blue jeans and black and white trousers
identical dresses made from tweed, with quarter sleeves, and white collars, featuring black ribbons, cute thanksgiving outfits, worn by a mother and daughter
girls thanksgiving outfit, smiling female toddler, wearing a beige winter coat, black leggings and a black hat, with a black cross body bag

Can you really wear jeans for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely, provided you choose the right pair. Opt for a dark wash or black denim for a dressier feel. The most important feature is stretch; look for jeans with at least 2% elastane for comfort. A high-waisted, wide-leg, or straight-leg cut from a brand like Madewell or Good American offers a modern silhouette that’s far more forgiving than skinny jeans.

little girl with shoulder-length blonde hair, and a yellow flower in her mouth, jumping in the air, dressed in a white and black patterned coat, a khaki short dress, and dark grey knitted tights, girls thanksgiving outfit
yellow knitted jumper dress, worn with a woven, thin brown leather belt, and cowboy boots, by a small child, girls thanksgiving outfit, simple and cute
chestnut brown shoulder length hair, on a small child, dressed in an oversized, grey knitted jumper, girls thanksgiving outfit, skinny dark blue jeans

Leggings: Ultimate comfort, but can look too casual. Best reserved for very informal family gatherings.

Ponte Pants: These are the upgrade. Made from a thick, double-knit fabric, they offer the stretch of a legging but the structure and polish of a tailored trouser. A pair from a brand like Spanx or J.Crew is a game-changer for looking sharp while feeling completely at ease.

wide-brimmed black felt hat, worn by a child, with long wavy blonde hair, white peplum top, and blue skinny jeans, girls thanksgiving outfit, beige and brown ankle boots
combination for girls thanksgiving outfit, pale pink jumper dress, light cream cardigan, black opaque tights, brown shoes and a light grey hat
sequin heart in gold, on a striped lond t-shirt, in black and white, worn over ink blue skinny jeans, girls thanksgiving outfit, grey fur boots
mittens in beige, with white shearling fur trim, a pale pink dress, with turkey feather print, a light grey jumper, baby thanksgiving outfits, beige shoes with bows, and a pale pink winter hat, with a pom pom
  • They look instantly put-together.
  • They feel as comfortable as pajamas.
  • There’s no stress in matching separates.

The secret? A knit co-ord set. A matching ribbed top and wide-leg pants in a soft merino or cotton blend is the epitome of modern holiday dressing. It’s comfortable, chic, and perfectly suited for a long day of feasting.

toddler thanksgiving outfit, grey cardigan and a plaid blanket scarf, striped leggings in pale pink and dark purple, beige shearling fur boots, and a light grey beanie hat
rubber rain boots in red, worn by a small girl, with dark blue jeans, a light chambray, a plaid red and blue gilet, and an animal print beanie hat, toddler thanksgiving outfit
small girl dressed in a white and yellow, checkered tunic dress, over black leggings, toddler thanksgiving outfit, headband and brown ankle boots

Don’t underestimate the power of a festive brooch. Pinning a vintage-style or modern metallic brooch to the shoulder of a simple crewneck sweater is a quick, sophisticated way to add a touch of personality and holiday sparkle without being over-the-top.

orange jumper dress, with quarter sleeves, toddler thanksgiving outfit, brown suede shoes, an off-white tube scarf, and a brown knitted hat
baby girl thanksgiving outfit, brown jumper with orange and beige, yellow and white embroidery, and a brown and orange tutu skirt, on a smiling dimpled baby
little miss thankful, written in gold, on a white onesie, with orange and brown motifs, tutu skirt in orange, and a white and orange striped headband, with a sparkly gold bow, baby girl thanksgiving outfit

For the little ones, prioritize soft fabrics and easy movement. Think leggings or joggers in dark colors (to hide inevitable spills) and a soft, long-sleeved cotton top. A zip-up hoodie or cardigan is a perfect layer they can easily remove themselves if they get warm running around.

baby thanksgiving outfits, dark navy jumper, and blue jeans, on a small baby boy, wearing a beige gilet, with a white sherling fur trim, and plaid details
headband with a big yellow bow, worn by a small baby, dressed in a brown, orange and yellow dress, with a sequined turkey motif, and a frilly tutu, baby girl thanksgiving outfit ideas
cartoon turkey printed on a white, long-sleeved top, baby thanksgiving outfits, striped trousers in dark brown and white

The forgotten detail: A beautiful sock. When your trousers or jeans ride up as you sit, a flash of a quality sock adds a thoughtful, stylish touch. Consider a pair in merino wool from a brand like Falke or Bombas in a rich, complementary color like rust or olive green.

gobble gobble printed in gold, on a white onesie, worn by a smiling baby, with a white and gold headband, featuring a large bow, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, next image shows a knitted hat, resembling a roast turkey
necktie shape in orange, with white polka dots, sewn on a brown t-shirt, worn over a white and orange striped jumper, by a smiling baby boy, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, dark blue jeans
peter pan collar, and short sleeves, on a checkered onesie, in brown and white, embroidered with a turkey cartoon, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, on a whiite background
vest in white, with a cartoon turkey pattern, worn with an orange bow tie, over a white t-shirt, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, for infant boys

The slip skirt is a surprisingly versatile holiday hero. For a relaxed-yet-luxe vibe, pair a satin or silk-blend slip skirt with a slightly oversized, chunky-knit sweater. The contrast in textures is effortlessly chic and sophisticated. Finish with ankle boots or elegant flats.

newsboy cap in white and blue, worn by a small baby boy, dressed in jeans with suspenders, and a pale blue shirt, baby thanksgiving outfits, sitting in a wooden cart, with straw and a pumpkin
infant wearing a white onesie, with long sleeves, and a multicolored festive print, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, striped leggings in brown and yellow, white and orange
basket lined with beige and cream wool, containing a very young baby, dressed in dark green knitted nappies, baby thanksgiving outfits, fall leaves in different colors, and decorative branches, with small orange berries

Is wearing white after Labor Day still a rule?

Forget that outdated notion! Winter whites are incredibly chic. The key is texture. Think of an outfit built around a cozy cream cable-knit sweater, ivory corduroy pants, or a wool-blend dress in a soft ecru. It feels fresh, bright, and perfectly appropriate for a festive gathering.

laughing one-year-old with short blonde hair, wearing dark blue skinny jeans, and a plaid shirt in red, white and dark grey, baby girl thanksgiving outfit, dark blue bow, on top of her head
pumpkins and apples, near a sitting baby boy, dressed in a beige and light blue sweater, and dark blue jeans, baby thanksgiving outfits, pale grey hat, with small bear ears
turkey cartoon in yellow, orange and dark brown, printed on a white onesie, worn with a fluffy tulle tutu skirt, in yellow and orange and brown, baby girl thanksgiving outfit, orange headband with three multicolored bows

Chunky Knit Sweater: Best for a casual, cozy, statement look. Creates a relaxed silhouette.

Fine-Gauge Knit Sweater: Ideal for a sleeker, more polished feel and perfect for layering under a blazer or vest. A classic cashmere crewneck from Everlane is the perfect example.

it's my first fall y'all, and an image of a pumpkin, printed in different colors, on a white onesie, worn by a baby in striped leggings, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, orange faux pumpkin nearby
stylish baby girl thanksgiving outfit, white trousers with gold hearts, pale grey jumper with long sleeves, faux fur gilet, and a white and gold headband
polka dots in white, on a yellow dress, with long sleeves and frills, worn by a smiling baby girl, with brown leather boots, white leggings and a yellow and white head ornaments
  • It moves with you, never constricting.
  • The fabric drapes beautifully, hiding a full stomach.
  • It feels both relaxed and luxurious.

The hero piece? A pair of wide-leg trousers in a flowy material. Look for styles in Tencel, viscose blends, or soft, drapey wool. Paired with a simple fitted knit, they create a stunningly comfortable and elegant silhouette.

first thanksgiving baby onesie, with long sleeves, baby's first thanksgiving outfit, featuring a festive message, printed in green, orange and brown
pair of babies, dressed in identical clothes, white jumpers featuring cartoon turkey prints, baby girl thanksgiving outfit, striped trousers in light green, white and orange, shiny gold soft shoes
mini dress in black, with white geometrical pattern, worn over black leggings, by a smiling woman, with long brunette hair, and tall brown leather boots
purple mini dress, worn with a plaid blanket scarf, and over-the-knee black suede boots, by a slim woman, holding a beige bag

To keep delicate knits looking their best, skip the washing machine. Hand wash in cool water using a specialized wool and cashmere shampoo, like The Laundress Wool & Cashmere Shampoo. Gently squeeze out excess water (never wring!) and lay flat to dry on a towel, away from direct heat.

four images of the same woman, dressed in different outfits, purple skinny trousers, and a black leather biker jacket, black tights and a mini skirt, leggins and jumpers
man dressed in a light pink shirt, dark blue jeans, and a pale cream gilet, holding the hands of a small baby, wearing dark blue jeans, a grey t-shirt, blue quilted jacket, and a blue beanie hat, baby thanksgiving outfits for little boys
wrist watch and earrings, tall brown leather boots, dark blue skinny jeans, mink brown cable knit sweater, a red clutch bag, and a lipstick, what to wear for thanksgiving day

The forgiving power of print: A busy-but-tasteful print is your best defense against accidental spills. A small floral, a classic paisley, or even a subtle leopard print on a blouse or dress can camouflage a stray drop of gravy or wine far better than a solid color.

laughing brunette woman, wearing a dark green, turtle neck jumper dress, and beige suede ankle boots, she is holding a matching beige leather bag, and a red coffee cup
young slim women, dressed in four different outfits, suitable for thanksgiving, mini dress and over-the-knee boots, ripped jeans and a polo neck jumper, mini skirt and a striped top, black skinny trousers, and a printed t-shirt
suede over-the-knee boots, in mink grey, worn with ripped skinny jeans, a baggy white polo neck jumper, and a creamy grey jacket

Searches for

off-white sweater dress, worn over a black and white, striped polo neck jumper, comfy outfits, on a smiling brunette woman, with tall brown leather boots
patchwork faux fur coat, worn with a black mini dress, and over-the-knee boots, short sleeved beige coat, over jeans and a white t-shirt, and a faux mink fur gilet, on top of a white jumper dress
blanket scarf in white, with dark green and brown motifs, worn over a greyish-green jumper dress, comfy outfits, paired up with beige, suede over-the-knee boots

Don’t be afraid of velvet before the December holidays. A simple piece in this plush fabric adds instant warmth and luxury. Try a pair of velvet leggings or wide-leg pants paired with a simple cashmere sweater for an outfit that is both incredibly comfortable and festively chic.

plaid blanket scarf, in red and black, combined with a white top, and worn over ripped, black skinny jeans, comfy outfits, light beige suede ankle boots
wellington boots in red, combined with a dark grey jumper dress, and a white and black, checkered blanket scarf, comfy outfits, black leather bag
cardigan made from a plaid blanket scarf, tied with a thin, brown leather belt, worn over a striped, black and white top, and dark blue skinny jeans, tall brown leather boots, and a red clutch bag
women dressed in cute thanksgiving outfits, ripped jeans and light sweaters, scarves and skinny jeans, and other examples

A simple wrap dress, especially in a soft jersey or knit fabric, is a Thanksgiving classic for a reason. The adjustable tie-waist is forgiving and can be loosened as the day goes on, while the V-neckline is flattering on almost everyone. It’s a one-and-done solution that always looks polished.

tall brown leather, riding style boots, a-line dress in ivory, cute thanksgiving outfits, tartan blanket scarf, and a navy blue tote bag, with brown leather details
matching outfits for moms and daughters, skinny dark blue jeans, white jumpers and pale green parkas, toddler thanksgiving outfit ideas, on a little girl, standing next to her mom, in the forest
teenage girls thanksgiving outfit, burgundy red velvet cardigan, over a multicolored dress, with a floral pattern, and sheer black tights, black felt hat
  • A small stain remover pen (Tide to Go).
  • A couple of safety pins for any sudden wardrobe malfunctions.
  • Lip balm or a touch-up lipstick.
  • A chic hair tie or clip for when you start to overheat in the kitchen.

Keep this mini emergency kit in your purse. It’s a small step that ensures you’ll feel prepared and confident all day long.

two images of a small girl, dressed in blue denim overalls, and a plaid black and red shirt, toddler thanksgiving outfit, with beige lace up shoes
child dressed in a white cable knit jumper, black leggings with white socks, and tall brown leather boots, smiling while holding a small pumpkin, toddler thanksgiving outfit, more pumpkins nearby
baby's first thanksgiving outfit, white onesie with short sleeves, featuring a cartoon turkey print, with the inscription 1st thanksgiving, yellow bow tie, and faux suspenders

Cashmere: The ultimate in luxury and softness, but can be pricey and delicate.

Alpaca: Often warmer and more durable than cashmere, with a silky feel and a slightly fuzzier ‘halo’ effect. A great, often more sustainable, alternative for a super-soft sweater.

Both are excellent choices for a touch of comfortable luxury.

fall leaves in different colors, pumpkins and gourds, surrounding a newborn baby, dressed in brown knitted overalls, sleeping on a cream blanket, placed on top of a hay stack, deer and woods in the background
metal cooking pot, containing a small baby, wearing a turkey knitted cap, baby thanksgiving outfits, cabbage and carrots, and other vegetables near the pot

The easiest upgrade: a statement collar. Whether it’s a detachable, oversized lace collar added to a simple crewneck sweater or a blouse with a built-in scalloped or ruffled collar peeking out, it’s a major trend that instantly frames the face and adds a touch of vintage charm to any outfit.

John Griffith
John Griffith

John combines 12 years of experience in event planning, interior styling, and lifestyle curation. With a degree in Visual Arts from California Institute of the Arts and certifications in event design, he has styled luxury weddings, corporate events, and celebrity celebrations. John believes in creating memorable experiences through innovative design and attention to detail.

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