What to Wear for Thanksgiving: 10 Fall Outfits to Copy This Year
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Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and now is the ideal time to start planning your outfit for the holiday. Whether you're heading home to family, feasting with friends, escaping to the countryside, or keeping it cozy at home, I've got you covered— here are 10 Thanksgiving outfit ideas that’ll make you the best-dressed person at any celebration. From laid-back looks to dressy ensembles, these Thanksgiving Day outfits balance comfort, style, and the warm autumn colors we all adore this time of year.
I’ll be in France again this year, but I intend to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a traditional meal to share with my boyfriend. I’m also planning to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. While I do miss the way we celebrate holidays back in the U.S., I’m still happy to share some of my favorite traditions with my French friends and family. Since I’m not meeting up with family, I’ll be keeping my Thanksgiving outfit fairly casual. A classic sweater, straight-leg jeans and ankle boots have been my favorite ensemble so far this season, so I imagine wearing something similar for the holiday.
Thanksgiving Outfit Inspiration
10 Thanksgiving Outfit Ideas
1. Homeward Bound
For those heading back to their hometowns to celebrate with family, a sweater dress paired with knee-high boots is the ultimate Thanksgiving dinner outfit. The sweater dress keeps you warm and comfortable, while the boots add elegance and elongate your legs.
Go for a dress in a soft, neutral tone—like beige, grey, cream, or olive. Not only do these colors feel luxurious, but they also provide a perfect canvas for accessorizing. Add a statement belt to cinch the waist, or pop in a pair of statement earrings for an effortlessly chic look to wear at home.
Read More: Heaven Mayhem Dupes: Best Earring Finds Under $50
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2. Relaxed Reunion
If you prefer to keep it casual, a cozy knit sweater paired with your favorite jeans is an effortless way to nail the Thanksgiving dress code. Opt for a chunky turtleneck in a neutral shade like beige, camel or chocolate brown—perfect Thanksgiving colors that scream fall.
Why jeans? Because they’re comfortable, versatile, and let's be honest, stretchy enough to accommodate that second slice of pie. Simple outfits with jeans are always a win.
Throw on ankle boots or loafers and some matching accessories, like a simple belt and suede bag, and you’re set.
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3. Friendsgiving Feast
Brown is back for autumn 2024, and this Thanksgiving dinner outfit is a great example of how to don this trending color. For a Friendsgiving celebration, go for a casual yet chic ensemble that suits the laid-back but stylish vibe.
Start with an espresso cable-knit sweater and light-wash jeans as your base. Pair them with bright caramel boots for a pop of contrast. Finish the look with a brown suede shoulder bag, and you’re all set to celebrate with your friends in style.
Read More: Brown Tonal Fall Capsule Wardrobe
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4. Chef Essentials
If you're the one in charge of the Thanksgiving feast, your outfit needs to blend practicality with style. Go for loose-fitting pants paired with a timeless turtleneck sweater—perfect for staying comfortable while you’re busy in the kitchen.
Keep your feet happy with ballet flats, sneakers, or loafers, and don't forget to top off your look with an apron in case of any kitchen mishaps. Hosting Thanksgiving dinner? This effortlessly chic outfit is made for you, the chef in action.
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5. Close-Knit
Nothing says “fall” quite like a cozy knit cardigan. It’s the perfect piece to layer over a simple tee or blouse, giving you warmth and texture without skimping on style. If you're in search of a timeless cardigan to wear year after year, I highly recommend the Gaspard cardigan from Bash. Pair it with classic denim for a perfect Thanksgiving ensemble.
Step into some suede loafers, and grab a matching shoulder bag. Don’t forget a pair of statement studs to elevate the look further. With this outfit, you’ll be ready to move from the dining table to a post-feast walk without missing a beat.
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6. Decadent Layers
Dress / Turtleneck / Boots / Bag
If you’re searching for a no-fuss, chic Thanksgiving day outfit, a shift dress is your go-to. Look for one in earthy tones like burgundy, olive, or navy, and autumnal patterns like herringbone or plaid. Adding a turtleneck underneath not only keeps you warm but also adds a stylish layer.
Knee-high boots elevate this look, making it polished yet still laid-back. Plus, they keep your legs warm, which is always a bonus as the temperature drops. Complete the ensemble with a burgundy bag for a pop of personality. This look channels major Meg Ryan fall vibes, and I’m all for it.
Read More: Meg Ryan Fall Style: 8 Rom-Com Inspired Outfits
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7. Countryside Escape
Heading to the countryside for Thanksgiving? Dress for your rural retreat with a casual, cozy outfit that transitions seamlessly from the dinner table to the great outdoors. A turtleneck sweater, slim jeans, and hiking boots are the best basics for your Thanksgiving Day outfit.
Complete the look with a field jacket and a wool scarf. Whether you’re taking a walk in the woods, playing touch football, or relaxing by the fireplace after the meal, this outfit blends comfort with practicality for the perfect country Thanksgiving.
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8. Formal Festivities
If your Thanksgiving plans lean more towards a formal affair, a sophisticated midi dress in rich fall colors is the way to go. Style it with your favorite knee-high boots or heels for an ensemble that’s perfectly polished.
Add structure to the outfit with a blazer in a fall-ready shade like deep burgundy or rich brown to keep the theme going. Finish with a clutch bag and a few well-chosen accessories, and voilà—your formal Thanksgiving Day ensemble is complete.
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9. Preppy in Plaid
Looking for something a bit more refined? Try pairing a plaid blazer with a matching mini skirt. This combination is sophisticated yet comfortable—perfect for a Thanksgiving dinner where you want to impress without trying too hard.
Pair this preppy combo with pointed-toe flats or kitten heels and a simple shoulder bag in a complementary color. This look is versatile enough for both casual and more formal gatherings.
This is exactly what I picture Blair Waldorf wearing to her Thanksgiving dinner in 2024!
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10. Cozy at Home
For those who are celebrating Thanksgiving at home, opt for a relaxed and cozy look. Slip into your comfiest loungewear—my go-to pieces include an oversized sweater and flowy silk trousers. Treat your feet to cashmere socks and soft slippers for the ultimate comfort.
If you plan to watch fall movies or browse online for Black Friday deals, blue light glasses are a must to protect your eyes. I love this pair from Fifth & Ninth that are only $35! This outfit is stay-in style, done right.
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What to Wear for Thanksgiving
1. Find Your Fall Colors
Fall fashion is all about rich, warm hues, and Thanksgiving is the perfect occasion to incorporate autumnal shades like deep burgundy, rustic orange, forest green, and mustard yellow into your outfit. Even if your color season isn’t autumn, you can still find fall-inspired tones that suit you.
Winters can opt for jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue. Springs can go for soft, warm colors like camel, tomato red, or golden yellow. Muted, cool shades like sage green, maroon, and plum beautifully complement Summers.
Read More: What to Wear Instead of Black: 12 Alternatives for Every Color Season
2. Keep It Comfortable
Thanksgiving is a day to indulge, so comfort should be at the forefront of your outfit choice. When I’m savoring a holiday meal, I always prefer clothing with some stretch or looser fits. If you’re not sure what to wear for Thanksgiving dinner, stick with fabrics like knits, cashmere, and soft cotton blends. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive.
3. Layer for Versatility
With unpredictable weather on Thanksgiving, layering is essential. Start with a comfortable base, like a long-sleeved tee or a lightweight sweater, then add a cardigan, vest, or sweater for extra warmth. Layering allows you to adapt your outfit to any setting, indoors or outdoors. Top off your look with a wool blazer or coat, and if needed, add a cozy scarf, hat, and gloves.
4. Mix Casual and Dressy
Prepare for any gathering, from formal dinners to casual potlucks, by blending casual and dressy items. This ensures you’re neither overdressed nor underdressed. Try pairing something casual like jeans with a dressier blouse or sweater, or wear a comfortable sweater dress with heeled boots. You can easily adapt the Thanksgiving outfits in this post as needed!
5. Choose Footwear Wisely
Footwear plays a crucial role in your Thanksgiving outfit. Choose comfortable shoes that are suitable for post-feast walks or a friendly football game. Ankle boots, loafers, or stylish sneakers are excellent choices. Avoid heels that are too high or narrow, as they might become uncomfortable after a few hours. If you opt for heels, consider bringing a comfortable pair of shoes for outdoor activities.
6. Consider Your Role in the Kitchen
If you’ll be busy in the kitchen, think about practicality. Wearing an apron is a must to help protect your clothes. You can also wear a casual outfit as you cook and change into something more formal just before your meal.
When deciding what to wear for Thanksgiving, it’s all about finding the right balance between comfort and style. You want to look great, but you also want to enjoy that second helping of stuffing without feeling restricted! Whether you're attending a traditional family gathering, a Friendsgiving celebration, or spending a cozy day at home, I hope these fall Thanksgiving outfits spark some inspiration.
What are you wearing for Thanksgiving this year? Let me know in the comments below.
