What to Wear to Thanksgiving Dinner

You know that place between "everyday uniform" and "why is everyone else in jeans?" This is it. Cable-knit sweater, tailored jeans, ankle boots. Done.

The whole thing works because it's comfortable without looking sloppy. You're not showing up in leggings, but you're also not going to spend dinner wishing you'd worn something looser. The key here is contrast. Fitted jeans balance out a chunky sweater. Tuck the front in for an on-trend update.

Top it off with suede ankle boots and some gold hoops. Try a lightweight plaid scarf if you want that traditional fall aesthetic without going overboard.

This outfit is perfect for casual family gatherings, backyard dinners, basically anywhere the dress code is elevated-casual And if it gets cold? You've already got layers built in, so you're covered. (Image credit: @krisleighburnett)

An oversized button-up layered over faux leather leggings, finished with chunky loafers or Chelsea boots. This is our go-to when we want to look put-together at the Friendsgiving fête while keeping the vibe laid-back and a little edgy—relaxed enough for a potluck at your friend's apartment, but no loungewear vibes in sight. 

The shoe choice matters here. Chelsea boots or chunky loafers balance out the sleek leggings and amp up the cool factor. Want to elevate it? Add a bold lipstick or eye-catching clutch. Either one takes this from "casual dinner" to "maybe we're going out after" without adding any fuss.

And if you end up loving the Chelsea boot vibe, we've got a whole guide on how to style Chelsea boots for way more than just Thanksgiving. (Image credit: @always_overpacked)

A fall maxi dress or wrap dress with kitten heels or tall suede boots: this is exactly what you reach for when the Thanksgiving vibe is leaning fancy—think nicer restaurant or a dinner party at someone's home where "casual elegance" is the unspoken dress code.

What we love about a dress for Thanksgiving is it's basically a one-and-done situation. You're not trying to figure out if your top matches your pants or if your proportions look right. Just slide it on and you're pretty much set. 

For shoes, tall suede boots or closed-toe kitten heels both work, just be sure to choose a heel that can handle potential walkways and plush carpeting. Boots lean more casual and practical, while heels dress up the look a bit more. (Image credit: @livinstyleinsta)

If you're hosting Thanksgiving, picking an easy outfit like a sweater dress or sweater set is the way to go. Since you don't have to bother with matching separate outfit pieces, it leaves you more time to focus on orchestrating the dinner and decor. 

We also love this outfit because it's seriously so comfortable and it still looks great even after you've spent the afternoon running around with plates and drinks. 

For added style points, tie your hair back with a pretty ribbon or clip and polish the whole look off with some mules or low-heeled boots. We've found that chunky or dangly jewelry can get in the way while hosting, so if you want more bling, go for low-key options like studs. (Image credit:@lawoffashionblog)

If you have to travel a little to meet your loved ones, we suggest looking for an outfit with light, practical layers and a relaxed fit. We love the pairing of wide-legged, pull-on pants with a relaxed button-down shirt. To help the look transition straight from the car to dinner, add a knit sweater, blazer, or trench coat to give the look some additional structure. For the cleanest results, pick wrinkle-resistant materials that will look crisp even if you've just stepped off a plane. And while this outfit might seem somewhat simple, we've found that it can still look Thanksgiving-ready as long as you pick the right colors and accessories. Options like a slim belt or a few pretty necklaces practically guarantee you still look dressed up no matter how far you travel. (Image credit: @neetastarling)

We always love a good photo-op, and Thanksgiving is an ideal time to get some cute photos with your nearest and dearest. If preserving memories is the goal, it's important to pick a family photo outfit that photographs well. To plan this look, start with a neutral, monochrome sweater or shirt as a base. Then pair it with a glitzy skirt or bold jacket to make the outfit feel extra-special. If you want to add some extra elegance without creating distracting photos, complete the look with a few minimalistic pieces of jewelry. Consider coordinating with your family and friends to ensure everyone wears a cohesive color palette and your whole group can get in on the action. (Image credit: @thriftywifehappylife)

Planning a quiet Thanksgiving or just hanging out with leftovers the next day? A matching lounge-set is the move.

Comfort is the entire point here. A matching loungewear set looks chic and coordinated even though you're basically wearing elevated sweatpants. Look for details like textured fabric, collared neckline, or piping that take the look from “athleisure” to “practically separates”.

Forget boots, the footwear should match the easy aesthetic. Slippers, clogs or even some retro sneakers are a good fit. Keep jewelry minimal or skip it completely. If you want to add anything, keep it cozy—think fun socks or a silk scrunchie, something that feels intentional. (Image credit: @melinaxzay)

If your holiday isn't complete without some football, we've got the ideal look for you. Start with some pants you can move in, like barrel-leg jeans, and top with a varsity sweater in your favorite team’s colors. For footwear, look for fashion-forward sneakers with metallic accents or in a retro style. We've found this fall outfit works equally well for watching the football game or for playing a little touch football after dinner. To elevate the look above basic sportswear, consider adding some simple jewelry or a sporty-chic watch. This look even works when temperatures drop because you can top it with a cute puffer vest to keep the sporty vibe going.