Dressy and Casual Thanksgiving Outfit Ideas
What do your Thanksgiving plans look like this year? It’s right around the corner and on top of everything else you have to think about, you may be thinking, “What the heck am I going to wear!?” There’s the food, who’s bringing what, table settings, centerpieces, etc… There’s actually a lot of thought and sometimes a great deal of stress built into this day. The last thing you want to worry about is what to wear. You’ll want to have that figured out ahead of time… and I’m here to help make choosing a Thanksgiving outfit an easy process!
Every family celebrates Thanksgiving in different ways and dress codes can certainly vary, but no matter how you celebrate, you want to feel comfortable and confident! Plus, there’s a possibility you’ll be taking photos for that holiday card you’re hoping to send out in December, so you want to look cute. Below, I’m sharing a roundup of outfit ideas that are perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations, whether they’re fancy parties or informal get-togethers.
If you need to bring a hostess gift to a Thanksgiving get-together, we share some great options here.
Dressy Thanksgiving Outfit Ideas
Outfit #1) Burgundy Sweater & Slip Skirt
Burgundy is such a popular color trend this season and wearing it head-to-toe would be extra chic! And it’s one of those colors that looks great on so many different skin tones. Perfect for Thanksgiving, but also a great holiday look as well. I’m wearing a Cinq á Sept sweater with the prettiest crystal embellishments and an Anine Bing silk slip skirt. The skirt has an elastic waistband which is so comfortable if you’re going to be sitting and eating a lot! On my feet, I’m wearing a pair of Schutz stiletto heel booties that are actually more comfortable than you would think. But you could always swap those out for a low-heeled black bootie as well.
Outfit #2) All White
I love an all-white (ivory, cream, etc.) look, especially in the fall and winter months when it’s easy to gravitate toward darker colors. On top, I’m wearing an ASTR the Label cardigan with the most beautiful pearl collar and buttons. It also has short puff sleeves and a pretty cable knit. It’s such a feminine and lovely sweater and while it looks expensive, it’s quite affordable. I paired it with an LPA cable knit skirt that’s in a similar ivory tone as the sweater and some Sam Edelman booties. When putting together a monochromatic look like this one, the colors don’t have to match exactly! You can mix up the tones and also add different textures for added interest. If you want to dress this look down a touch for your Thanksgiving get-together, just swap the skirt for a pair of jeans.
Outfit #3) Black Dress & Ankle Booties
You can never go wrong with a little black dress…it’s a fall fashion staple! And this LBD by BB Dakota is long-sleeved, comfortable, affordable, and super versatile. For those of you who celebrate on Thanksgiving night instead of Thanksgiving Day, this is a great option. I styled the dress with a pair of black tights, black Isabel Marant western-inspired ankle boots, and a black leather blazer. I completed the look with some more western-inspired pieces including the belt and bag by ba&sh. This is the perfect look for any of your fall and winter occasions. This exact dress has just one size available, but I found a very similar one to link as well.
For more outfits by occasion, make sure you check out this post.
Outfit #4) Leather Pants
If you don’t have leather pants, go with faux leather, vegan leather, or just some coated jeans like the pair I’m wearing by Good American. I styled them with a silky tank that has cool chain detailing along the neck, some black ankle booties, the same leather blazer from #3, and a gorgeous Dior handbag. If you want the comfort of a jeans outfit without looking too casual, this is the look for you!
If you’re interested in more ways to wear leather pants, check out this post.
Outfit #5) Printed Maxi Dress
If your Thanksgiving celebrations are uber chic, go for a gorgeous Thanksgiving dress like this one by Zimmermann. I know it’s pricey, but it makes me feel FAB and brings me so much joy. But you could sub it for a more affordable printed maxi if this is the look you’re going for. I styled it with mesh sandals but you could swap them for booties or heels. This exact dress is unfortunately no longer available, but I found a similar option in the same beautiful color palate. I’d wear it with a pair of brown suede booties.
Shop more affordable maxi dresses here.
Outfit #6) Monochromatic Statement Look
Instead of the classic fall colors, go for one of the most on-trend colors for fall…PINK! I always talk about how you should take fashion risks and wear things that bring you JOY! This look is a really fun option if you’re heading to a dressy Thanksgiving get-together (or heading to dinner with friends, going out to dinner with your spouse, heading on a fun girls’ trip, etc.). The fun feathery top and boucle pants are both from Karen Millen. This top is really comfortable, zips in the back, and actually stays put. The kick-flare pants are super flattering. I’m 5’4” so they fit like full-length pants, but they are technically cropped pants and will be shorter on taller women. I completed the look with a pair of pink pumps.
If you missed it, make sure you check out this post by one of our amazing contributors, Sam Stewart of Sam of Style, about how to wear the Barbiecore trend!
Outfit #7) Black & Brown Color Combo
This cute Thanksgiving outfit is for someone who wants to add a little sass to their look! I’m wearing this gorgeous Sundry midi dress with long sleeves and a longer length that feels very appropriate for a woman over 40. But, it has a subtle, sexy slit on the side to show a little leg, and it has a strategic asymmetrical cutout at the neckline that adds just a touch of sexy. It is a more form-fitting dress, which is a consideration if you’re not comfortable with your stomach. But it also has a layer on the inside that creates more forgiveness. This is one of those fabulous staple dresses for women who want to stay warm but look sexy and sophisticated in the fall. Oh, and you can wear a regular bra with it!
I styled it with a pair of brown suede western-inspired booties by Dolce Vita that are very on-trend right now and are perfect for fall. I’ve already worn them a TON with jeans, dresses, and skirts. Layered over the dress is this cool faux leather blazer by Evereve. The faux leather looks and feels really high-quality and the color is gorgeous for fall. I also love the 70s-inspired look of it! Adding the third layer also helps conceal the tummy and create a more slimming look. The exact pieces are sold out, but I’ll link similar brown and black options below so you can achieve this same look!
By the way, I recently shared a video about body love and where I am in my journey here if you’re interested.
Outfit #8) Blazer, Blouse & Jeans
Yes, this outfit is supposed to be in the “dressy” Thanksgiving outfits category. Even though I’m wearing jeans, the elevated blouse and chic blazer bring it up a notch. I’m wearing my favorite pair of Mother jeans…I have them in multiple washes now and many Team Busbee members also love them. Just trust us, they’re amazing! My Veronica Beard top is such a cool piece. I love the high neck, buttons, and striped pattern. The blazer is by IRO and has subtle shoulder pads and a drop shoulder that adds to the elevated look of the blazer. On my feet, I’m wearing my favorite black lug-sole booties by Steve Madden which are the perfect pair of black booties for fall and winter!
For more chic ways to wear these lug-sole booties, check out this post.
Outfit #9) Colorblock Sweater Dress
I shared this Remain Birger Christensen colorblock knit dress in this post and said it’s the dress that every woman needs in her closet…and I wasn’t exaggerating! It’s super lightweight so you’ll stay cool even in warmer climates (or during hot flashes). It’s also thin enough to layer beautifully under blazers and it’s incredibly flattering. The white part of the dress starts above the natural waist, so it creates the look of a shorter torso and a tinier waist. While in contrast, the black section minimizes the tummy, hips, butt, and thighs and creates the illusion of longer legs.
The dress also has a universally flattering v-neckline. And, it’s wrinkle-resistant. This is one of those super versatile dresses you can wear for pretty much any occasion with a few accessory changes. It’s great for events, dinners, or even the office. Considering versatility and quality…it’s a great price point too. I styled it with black knee-high boots by Schutz that I’ve had for years and love. This exact dress is no longer available, but since the color block trend is so popular, I found some similar dresses for you to shop.
Outfit #10) Black Pants & Sporty Blouse
With the right pair of black pants, you really can’t go wrong! This pair by Reiss is SO good. Our YouTube co-producer, Denise, ordered them and loves them too. They have a high waist, perfectly flared leg, and the length is great with heels. I’m 5’4” so if you’re shorter, you might need to get them hemmed depending on what shoes you want to wear with them. I’m wearing a pair of black platform booties by Veronica Beard but you could wear heels, pumps, flats, etc. On my top half, I’m wearing a super chic blouse that’s also by Reiss. I love the sporty look of the stripes down the arms and on the cuffs and collar combined with the overall femininity of the fabric and draping on the front. Plus, the v-neckline is super flattering!
We found a super similar blouse by Reiss with the same sporty and chic details…and it’s on sale right now! The exact top I’m wearing is, unfortunately, no longer available.
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Outfit #11) Black Pants & High Neck Blouse
This look is very similar to outfit #10 but I swapped the top and added a blazer to bring even more sophistication to the look. This Sandro blouse has a gorgeous high neck, intricate stitching, and a body-skimming fit. I have it tucked into the pants but if you’re concerned about hiding a tummy, this blouse would look beautiful untucked too. I threw on a camel-colored blazer by Reiss that’s the perfect fall wardrobe staple if you don’t already have that basic covered.
Outfit #12) Black Pants & Feminine Blouse
In this look, I’m wearing the same pants and booties….are you seeing how versatile these pants are yet?! But this time, I’m wearing a white lace blouse by Wayf. I’ve had this top for years and LOVE it. The best part? It’s under $100!
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Outfit #13) Elevated Blouse & Jeans
I know that jeans are inherently more casual, but this blouse is so gorgeous that it brings the outfit to a whole new level. This stunning Elliatt blouse has intricate feminine lace and small pearl embellishments that make it a seriously show-stopping top! The exact blouse is sold out, but any feminine lacey white blouse with the same delicate details will work. I’ll link a similar one below. I styled it with a high-waist pair of medium-wash jeans and a pair of Paris Texas boots. These boots are the perfect western-inspired pair of boots for anyone who wants to try the trend or just needs a killer pair of brown boots!
For more of my favorite brown boots for fall, check out this post.
Outfit #14) Statement Blazer
Another great way to dress up any of your Thanksgiving outfits is to add a statement blazer. I’m wearing a cool houndstooth blazer by Anine Bing. I love the print, oversized fit, and versatile black/white color combo. While this exact pattern is unavailable, I linked the same blazer in a taupe and black houndstooth pattern that is just as chic. I styled it with the same black pants, a lace cami, and black booties. But you could throw this blazer on over your jeans and tee for a chic, casual Thanksgiving outfit.
Outfit #15) Cropped Blazer
Along the same lines…go with a chic cropped blazer. I wore this Kimberly Goldson blazer a ton this fall…with pants, jeans, skirts, and dresses! Because the cropped blazer hits just above the natural waistline, it really helps create the illusion of a smaller waist. In this look, I’m wearing black pants, a black cropped lace cami, a chunky necklace, and black pointed-toe sandals by L’Agence.
Outfit #16) All Black
All-black is another outfit idea that’s pretty fail-safe! At this point, you’re probably tired of seeing these black pants. But just remember that these are just ideas…you can swap any of the pieces out for what makes sense for you, your plans, your body, your budget, and what you already have in your closet! I styled them with a cutout turtleneck sweater that’s one of those great wardrobe basics with a twist that I always talk about. I completed the look with some black heels and a black handbag.
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#17) Midi Skirt, Sweater & Blazer
I LOVE this outfit for Thanksgiving! I’m wearing a plaid dickey blazer by Veronica Beard that has a gorgeous brown plaid print and an oversized menswear-inspired fit. Underneath, I’m wearing a denim Veronica Beard dickey and a chunky knit sweater from Jenni Kayne that’s the perfect basic for fall. I paired it with a contrasting feminine silk skirt in a gorgeous brown tone. To keep me looking long and lean, I’m wearing a brown pair of boots. This look is the perfect combination of edgy and elegant!
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Casual Thanksgiving Outfit Ideas
Outfit #18) Twofer Sweater Dress & Jeans
I’m calling this look a more casual Thanksgiving outfit. but since this cable knit Staud sweater dress is so versatile, it really could be dressy OR casual. It’s actually a twofer dress with the look of a white button-down layered underneath. I love the crisp white collar and shirttail and since it’s built-in, it takes all the guesswork out of layering. On the left, I styled it as a dress with suede Stuart Weitzman booties. On the right, I added a pair of Frame straight-leg jeans underneath. This is where the more casual look comes in and you’ll have some added warmth too. For accessories, I added a gorgeous Brinker and Eliza statement necklace and Rebecca Minkoff leather handbag in the same beautiful camel shade as the sweater dress.
Outfit #19) Sweater Vest & Denim Pants
This next look is perfect for those of you who live in a warmer climate or just run warm. The sleeveless sweater vest by Line & Dot is made of a mid-weight cable knit. I love the loose turtleneck and longer length. I have it tucked into my pants here, but you could wear it untucked too. On my bottom half, I’m wearing a pair of SUPER comfortable, straight-leg denim pants by Veronica Beard with a flattering seam down the front. While Veronica Beard jeans typically run long on me, these are cropped so they’re the perfect length (I’m 5’4″ for reference). I finished the look with a pair of brown suede booties.
Casual Thanksgiving Outfit Ideas
Outfit #20) Cardigan & Jeans
Looking for casual Thanksgiving outfits that are also comfy? This is the look for you! I’m wearing a pair of Veronica Beard high-rise cropped flare jeans that are very comfortable and perfect for petites. But you could swap them for your favorite comfy pair of jeans. The top I’m wearing is the same one from outfit #8 but this time I threw a super soft and cozy long cardigan over it to make it more casual. Complete the look with your favorite pair of brown booties and you’re ready to go!
Outfit #21) Lighten Up
Usually, when you think of Thanksgiving, you think of all the traditional fall colors like browns, greens, beiges, etc. For a fun, unexpected Thanksgiving outfit, try to lighten up your look with some white jeans like the pair I’m wearing by Mother. These are the same style as the pair I’m wearing in outfit #8 but in white! I styled it with a striped Veronica Beard blouse, a brown belt, and brown booties. But you could swap the top for any printed, light-colored blouse you already have in your closet. This cool blouse is available in white, and I linked some similar striped tops too.
Outfit #22) Plaid Blazer & Flare Jeans
This look borders dressy and casual but is the perfect fall outfit…a pair of flared jeans, a white tee, and a plaid blazer? Yes, please! These L’Agence jeans are SO flattering, high-waisted, super dark wash, and perfect on my 5’4” frame (with a small heel). I kept it simple with a basic white tee but added some pizzazz with the plaid Veronica Beard blazer. On my feet, the same brown suede booties from many of the other looks…they really are that versatile!
Outfit #23) Blazer, Jeans & Knee High Boots
If you liked outfit #20 but you don’t love flared jeans, go with skinny jeans instead! I could have kept on the ankle booties, but in this look, I decided to swap them for some brown suede knee-high boots that are fabulous!
Outfit #24) Wide Leg Jeans
Now…if you want to wear the brown booties instead of the knee-high boots, but you don’t like flared jeans…go with a crop flare! Cropped flare jeans will pair beautifully with all your boots and booties this fall and winter!
Outfit #25) Joggers
If you’d rather wear an elastic waistband for your Thanksgiving dinner (I totally get that!), then this look is for you. These James Perse joggers are SO comfortable but still make you look pulled together! I threw on a Nation LTD tee that has a flattering v-neckline and balloon sleeves so it’s not your average tee. I completed the look with a pair of edgy See by Chloé combat boots…but you could swap them for a pair of sneakers or even slippers if you’re just staying home!
Outfit #26) Longline Vest
If you want that polished look but still want to keep it casual, try a cool piece of outerwear like this longline vest. You could also try a fun shearling jacket, quilted jacket, fun puffer, or edgy cargo jacket…the possibilities are endless! Underneath the vest I’m wearing a white Alice + Olivia blouse I got a few summers ago, but you could wear any blousy white top to get this same look. My AG jeans are super comfortable, the perfect wash, and the perfect length. My retro sneakers by Rag & Bone are so stylish AND comfortable that I bought them in multiple colors…you can see the black ones in outfit #29. Some of the colors are sold out but I’ll link some similar options!
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Outfit #27) Sweater & Jeans
Keep it extra simple with a sweater, jeans, and booties. This entire look from Jenni Kayne and every single piece is super high-quality, comfortable, and stylish. I’ve styled the sweater with SO many outfits, I love the fit of the jeans, and the booties are the perfect black booties for fall. This is a great outfit for everyday fall activities! If you’re worried about getting too warm, wear a white tee underneath and just tie the sweater around your shoulders as I did in the second photo…easy peasy!
Outfit #28) Blazer & Jeans
Another blazer and jeans outfit combination for you! Wear your favorite pair of straight jeans, a tee, leather, or printed blazer, and you’re good to go. Depending on your plans, you can wear heels like I am or swap them for sneakers or booties.
Outfit #29) White Button Down
Keep it simple with a white button-down and jeans. Extra points if you wear a cool, not-so-basic white button-down with interesting details. Pair it with your favorite pair of jeans and some booties for an effortless look this Thanksgiving. Just be careful not to spill the cranberry sauce on your nice white shirt 😉
Outfit #30) Faux Leather Blazer
Remember this faux leather blazer from wayyyyy back in outfit #7? I styled it with a dress but this time I’m styling it with a super-flattering white wrap top and bootcut jeans by Citizens of Humanity. This is another one of those simple but perfect fall outfits!
Outfit #31) Black Jeans
In this look, I’m wearing the same brown blazer over a white lace cami that’s tucked into a pair of black jeans by Agolde. On my feet are a fun pair of mules by Sam Edelman that will be so versatile for fall!
Outfit #32) Sweater Jacket & Black Denim
For this look, I’m wearing a pair of cropped, high-rise black Good American jeans that I can already tell will be a go-to pair of jeans for me this fall. They run really small, so I’d size up 1-2 sizes. I’m wearing a 27 (normally a 26) and they’re still a little snug. With the jeans, I have on a Jonathan Simkhai sweater jacket. This is a really cool piece. It has a waist-defining detail that’s very flattering and a small peplum that’s great for hiding a tummy. It’s sold out in the green, but I just got the same sweater in camel because I love the style SO much! On my feet, I’m wearing those on-trend, lug-sole booties by Steve Madden. They are a sock bootie style at the top so they’ll go perfectly under any type of jean style. Plus, they’re super comfortable!
Outfit #33) Sweater Jacket & Light Denim
I wanted to show you the same Jonathan Simkhai sweater jacket in the camel color I mentioned in the previous look styled just a bit differently. Told you I loved it! In this look, I’m wearing it with some straight-leg jeans by Frame, cool suede Stuart Weitzman booties, and the same gorgeous Brinker & Eliza necklace from look #18. The necklace will instantly elevate any of your Thanksgiving outfits!
Outfit #34) All-White
Because we have a monochromatic look for the dressy Thanksgiving outfits…of course I had to share a monochromatic option for the casual Thanksgiving outfits too. But really, this look can be dressy or casual! I’m wearing the same Jenni Kayne sweater you’ve seen throughout this post tucked into a beautiful white midi skirt (closer to a maxi on shorter women). I completed the look with a gorgeous gold necklace, brown western-inspired boots, and a black and brown Prada bag.
Outfit #35) Edgy Sweater
I shared this look in this post last year where I feature my must-haves for a busy mom outfit so it may look familiar. I’m wearing a gorgeous green AllSaints sweater that’s the perfect fall color, is soft and warm (cashmere blend…which is essential during the cooler months in Colorado), and is the perfect length for tucking or leaving untucked. The distressed look of the raw hem adds interest and edge to the sweater. It has a roomy fit but it’s not too oversized. It’s still available in black, gray, and a pretty pink, but the green is sold out so I linked a similar dark green sweater from Free People with the same cool, edgy details. I love it paired with jeans but it would also look great with a midi skirt or trousers. The jeans I’m wearing are by Mother, have the perfect amount of stretch, are super high-rise, and the lighter wash and minimal distressing are so good!
Outfit #36) Sweater & Jeans
If you prefer darker denim, go with something like this outfit! I love these Evereve jeans because they’re super comfortable with the right amount of stretch, they’re affordable, and they’re stylish. I paired them with some basic black booties and a pretty green sweater from Pistola. It’s a beautiful color, has strong (but subtle) shoulders, and is the perfect not-too-oversized sweater you need in your closet! Looks like the sweater is no longer available so I’ll link something similar below.
Outfit #37) Cargo Joggers
Instead of plain old sweatpants…try some cargo joggers! I love this pair by Phillip Lim because they’re comfortable and a great length for petites. On top, I’m wearing a simple black cami underneath one of my favorite leather blazers by Veronica Beard. This is a specialty piece so you could swap it for a regular blazer, cardigan, or moto jacket. To add even more edge, I finished off the look with some combat boots.
Outfit #38) Cardigan & Pants
If you have those black Reiss pants that I shared a million times in the dressy category but you’re trying to dress them down, try something like this…add a cardigan!
Outfit #39) Sweater Vest & Baggy Jeans
In this look, I’m wearing a chic sweater vest from Karen Millen that has a cable knit texture and an edgy zipper front. This exact sweater vest is no longer available, but I’ll link some similar options below. On my bottom half, I’m wearing a pair of baggy “trouser jeans” by Evereve that add to the cool factor of the look.
Outfit #40) Cardigan, Jeans & Knee High Boots
For a casual but elevated Thanksgiving outfit, pair your favorite long cardigan with skinny jeans and knee-high boots that are effortless and cozy!
Any other cute Thanksgiving outfit ideas I missed? Let me know in the comments and tell us which outfit was your favorite too!
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