What to Wear for Thanksgiving: The Style Guide

Thanksgiving may be a holiday centered on gratitude, family, and tradition, but it’s also a moment where style takes the spotlight. Between cozy dinners, formal gatherings, and the inevitable family photos, what you choose to wear says as much as the table you gather around. The right outfit blends comfort with sophistication, making you feel confident while staying true to the season’s warm, inviting spirit.

Table of Contents

• How to dress for a formal Thanksgiving dinner?
• What are the best casual Thanksgiving outfit ideas? 
• What colors are perfect for Thanksgiving outfits?
• What fabrics work best for Thanksgiving comfort?
• Dressing with Intention for Thanksgiving
• Frequently Asked Questions

This guide is designed to help you navigate the nuances of Thanksgiving attire, from casual gatherings to more formal affairs. Whether you’re searching for cute Thanksgiving outfits that balance ease and charm, or sophisticated Thanksgiving dress ideas that make a statement, you’ll find inspiration here to dress with intention, elegance, and a touch of seasonal flair.

Before we dive in, take a peek at Adrianna Papell’s collection of Thanksgiving outfits and dresses. From cozy maxi dresses made for family dinners to chic velvet midis perfect for a formal gathering, these pieces strike the right balance of comfort and style—exactly what the holiday calls for.

How to dress for a formal Thanksgiving dinner? 

When the occasion calls for elegance, your Thanksgiving attire should feel polished, festive, and effortlessly chic. Here are some outfit ideas that strike the perfect balance:

• Velvet midi dress + heels: A deep burgundy or emerald velvet midi dress paired with pointed-toe pumps and a delicate clutch exudes timeless sophistication. Add statement earrings for a refined finish.
  
• Satin slip dress + tailored blazer: A champagne or rust satin slip dress layered with a fitted blazer creates a modern, elegant look. Complete with strappy heels or sleek ankle boots.
  
• Structured long-sleeve dress + ankle boots: A fitted long-sleeve dress in navy, plum, or forest green with subtle embellishments pairs perfectly with heeled ankle boots or classic pumps.
  
• Velvet wrap dress + tights: A velvet wrap dress in autumnal tones is flattering on all body types. Add opaque tights and heeled booties for a polished yet comfortable look.
  
• Wide-leg jumpsuit + bold belt: A jewel-toned wide-leg jumpsuit cinched at the waist with a metallic belt is a contemporary alternative to a dress. Pair with heeled sandals or closed-toe pumps for an elevated feel.
  

Adrianna Papell’s collection features elegant jumpsuits in rich jewel tones, perfect for a formal Thanksgiving dinner and effortlessly sophisticated.

These ensembles ensure you’re dressed for the occasion while keeping comfort in mind, allowing you to focus on the festivities (and the food) without any fuss.

What are the best casual Thanksgiving outfit ideas? 

Not every Thanksgiving requires a formal dress code. For intimate family dinners or laid-back gatherings, casual chic is the way to go. Think of it as dressing up just enough—comfortable yet intentional.

• Dark denim + chunky knit + boots: A pair of slim dark jeans with a cream cable-knit sweater and suede ankle boots makes for an effortlessly chic combination. Add gold hoop earrings to polish it off.
  
• Sweater dress + knee-high boots: A ribbed sweater dress in taupe or rust paired with brown leather boots is both flattering and comfortable. Throw on a wrap coat if you’re stepping outdoors.
  
• Corduroy skirt + tights + plaid shirt: A burgundy corduroy mini with black tights and a tucked-in plaid button-down captures the fall aesthetic without looking fussy. Finish the look with loafers or Chelsea boots.
  
• Midi skirt + blouse + loafers: A pleated midi skirt in olive green with a silky cream blouse feels festive but still easy to move in. Loafers or ballet flats keep it grounded.
  
• Wide-leg trousers + turtleneck + sneakers: For a modern edge, style cropped wide-leg pants with a fitted turtleneck and crisp white sneakers—casual yet fashion-forward.
  
• Oversized cardigan + slip dress: Layer a chunky cardigan over a satin slip dress for a cozy-meets-elegant vibe. Add ankle boots for balance.
  

Casual doesn’t mean careless; it’s about choosing pieces that are versatile, flattering, and holiday-ready.

What colors are perfect for Thanksgiving outfits?

Thanksgiving naturally draws inspiration from fall’s earthy, warm palette. Choosing the right colors not only aligns with the season but also photographs beautifully for family portraits.

• Rich neutrals: Camel, cream, and taupe exude effortless elegance.
  
• Warm tones: Mustard, rust, and deep orange echo the autumn harvest.
  
• Classic darks: Burgundy, forest green, and navy work well for both casual and formal looks.
  
• Metallic accents: A touch of gold or bronze jewelry complements fall outfits for Thanksgiving without overpowering them.
  

For family photos, coordinating tones across outfits creates a cohesive look without matching too literally.

What fabrics work best for Thanksgiving comfort?

Comfort is key when planning Thanksgiving dinner outfits. After all, this holiday revolves around enjoying great food and long conversations. The right fabrics help you feel both at ease and stylish.

• Knits: Breathable and flexible, knits are perfect for sweaters, dresses, or even skirts.
  
• Cotton blends: Ideal for button-downs or casual tops that need to look sharp yet feel soft.
  
• Velvet: Adds festive flair to Thanksgiving dress ideas while remaining cozy.
  
• Silk or satin: Great for formal occasions, especially when balanced with warm layers.
  

Remember, Thanksgiving is a seated holiday, so prioritize fabrics that move easily and won’t wrinkle excessively.

Dressing with Intention for Thanksgiving

Ultimately, what to wear for Thanksgiving dinner depends on your setting, but the goal is the same: to look polished without sacrificing comfort. Choose outfits that reflect your personality, respect the occasion, and photograph beautifully. Whether it’s a long-sleeve Thanksgiving dress, tailored pants with a chic blouse, or a statement Thanksgiving maxi dress, your attire should feel festive yet effortless.

Also Read

• Plus-size Thanksgiving outfit ideas: Discover chic and flattering styles perfect for curvy women this holiday season.
  
• Christmas holiday party attire: Explore festive, elegant looks designed for every type of holiday gathering.
  
• Plus-size Christmas outfit ideas: Celebrate the season in style with beautiful, confidence-boosting holiday ensembles.