Thanksgiving is that magical day where you somehow have to juggle eating like royalty, posing for family photos, and maintaining optimal comfort levels in an outfit that’s cute enough for the 'Gram but cozy enough to survive the food coma. 😅
So, if you’re stuck staring into your closet wondering whether to wear jeans (ugh) or leggings (yes please), I’ve got you covered. From oversized knits to sneaky-stretchy pants, here are 13 Thanksgiving outfit ideas that’ll have you saying, “Pass the mashed potatoes and the compliments.”
Let’s start with the first 5 outfit ideas, shall we?
1. Oversized Sweater + Leggings = Classic Comfort
Ever tried to look chic and be able to breathe after your second plate of stuffing? Yeah, same. That’s where this go-to combo shines.
Why It Works:
- Leggings give you stretch (aka space to expand post-meal)
- An oversized sweater adds a cozy, effortless vibe
- Bonus: It hides the food baby like a champ
Pro Tip:
Go for a sweater in fall colors like burnt orange, mustard, or forest green. Pair it with faux-leather leggings if you want to look more “styled” than “rolled-out-of-bed.”
Mini Style Table
Item | Why It’s a Win 💯 |
---|---|
Oversized Knit | Covers all sins + cozy AF |
Leggings | Stretchy, sleek, snack-proof |
2. Midi Sweater Dress + Ankle Boots
Want to feel a bit dressier but still not sacrifice comfort? Enter the sweater dress. Honestly, this look feels like you're wearing a socially acceptable blanket. And we love that.
What Makes It Awesome:
- The midi length keeps it modest enough for Grandma’s approval
- Ankle boots elevate the look without torturing your feet
- It hugs in the right places but still gives breathing room
Rhetorical Question Time:
Ever wondered how to look “put together” without actually trying? This is your answer.
3. Flannel Shirt + High-Waisted Jeans
Look, flannel for fall might be cliché, but you know what? Clichés are popular for a reason. Flannel shirts scream cozy-chic, and they make you look like you just stepped out of a Pinterest board.
Here’s the Breakdown:
- High-waisted jeans tuck everything in (if ya know what I mean)
- Flannel shirts are comfy but polished
- Tuck in the front, let the back loose—it’s a vibe
FYI:
Opt for stretch denim if you’re planning to go hard on the pies. Nobody wants a waistband injury on Thanksgiving.
4. Chunky Cardigan + Slip Dress
Okay, hear me out. A slip dress sounds like it would be chilly or too fancy, but throw a chunky knit cardigan over it, and boom—you’ve nailed that cozy-luxe look.
Why I Love This:
- It balances feminine + functional
- You can belt it at the waist or leave it flowy—your choice!
- It layers easily, so you won’t be sweating during appetizers
IMO:
This one’s ideal if your Thanksgiving leans more "Pinterest-perfect tablescape" than "football and paper plates."
5. Corduroy Skirt + Turtleneck Top
Okay, fashion throwback moment! Corduroy is having a major comeback and I’m totally here for it. Pair a high-waisted corduroy skirt with a fitted turtleneck, and you’ll look polished and perfectly seasonal.
Why It’s a Vibe:
- Corduroy textures scream fall
- Turtlenecks keep you warm and stylish
- Add tights and boots to complete the look
Real Talk:
Will you have to unbutton the skirt after dessert? Maybe. But hey, fashion has its sacrifices. 😉
6. Knit Jumpsuit + Longline Coat
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “A jumpsuit? On Thanksgiving? Are you mad?” But hear me out—a soft knit jumpsuit is basically pajamas in disguise. And when you throw a longline coat over it? Boom. Instant chic.
Why This Works (Trust Me):
- Knit fabric = Stretch for days (a.k.a. buffet-approved)
- Longline coat adds structure so you don’t look like you’re in loungewear (even though you kinda are)
- You only need to pick one item to get dressed. Bless.
Honest Truth:
Yes, going to the bathroom in a jumpsuit is a mild inconvenience. But looking cute and comfy? Worth it. Just plan your pee breaks accordingly. 😅
7. Plaid Mini Skirt + Oversized Knit + Tights
Want to look festive without going full-on pumpkin spice cosplay? A plaid mini skirt gives you that fall energy without trying too hard, and when paired with a slouchy knit and tights? You're comfy and adorable.
What Makes It Pop:
- Plaid = seasonal classic
- Tights = keep the warmth, lose the goosebumps
- Oversized sweater = balances out the mini-skirt sass
Pro Tip:
Try tucking the front of your sweater into the skirt for that cute, casual vibe. Add loafers or ankle boots to seal the deal.
8. Sweater Vest + White Shirt Dress
Okay, let’s talk preppy meets comfy. If you haven’t tried the sweater vest over a shirt dress combo yet, you’re missing out. It’s polished, layered, and so on-trend it hurts (in a good way).
Here’s Why It Slaps:
- The vest adds warmth and structure
- A white shirt dress keeps it crisp and light underneath
- Add knee-high boots for the ultimate “fashion editor in fall” look
IMO:
This look screams “I read books and drink cinnamon tea while roasting squash.” Whether that’s true or not is between you and your Insta caption 😉
9. Matching Knit Set (Top + Skirt or Pants)
Nothing says “I have my life together” like a matching knit set. Plus, the stretch factor is off the charts. Honestly, it’s like wearing a coordinated hug.
Why You’ll Love It:
- No outfit planning stress—you already match
- Soft, breathable fabrics = maximum feast flexibility
- Easy to dress up or down (gold hoops? Elevate. Slippers? Lounge.)
Rhetorical Question:
Why spend 30 minutes matching separates when your knit set already does it for you?
10. Shacket + Mom Jeans + Graphic Tee
The shacket (shirt-jacket, if you’re late to the party) has become fall’s MVP. When you pair it with a graphic tee and some high-rise mom jeans, you’ve got a look that’s laid-back but still super put-together.
Outfit Breakdown:
- Shacket: Adds warmth + lumberjack vibes in a cute way
- Graphic Tee: Injects personality
- Mom Jeans: High-waisted = food baby insurance
Sarcastic Sidebar:
Will your dad say something like “What the heck is a shacket?” Yes. Will you care? Not even a little.
11. Faux Fur Vest + Thermal Top + Skinny Jeans
This look screams “I brunch, therefore I am.” But seriously, if you want cozy without looking like you tried too hard, faux fur vests are your go-to.
Why It’s a Vibe:
- Faux fur = cozy drama (the good kind)
- Thermal top adds warmth without bulk
- Pair with skinny jeans to keep the silhouette balanced
Quick Tip:
Go for earth tones—like beige, brown, or olive—to keep it Thanksgiving-appropriate. And yes, you can wear UGG boots. I won’t judge. 😉
12. Cozy Knit Romper + Long Socks
Okay, this one’s for the homebodies. If your Thanksgiving plan includes lounging on the couch with spiked cider and avoiding political debates, say hello to the knit romper + knee-high sock combo.
What You’ll Love:
- Looks cute for the “random candid” family pics
- Feels like loungewear, but looks like effort
- Easy to layer with a chunky cardigan if needed
FYI:
This is ideal if you’re spending the day indoors, especially in a warm house where sweaters = overheating in 20 minutes. Knit rompers = breathable and stylish.
13. Turtleneck Bodysuit + Wide-Leg Trousers
Last but definitely not least, this one’s for my minimalists. Want to look sleek, modern, and holiday-appropriate? A fitted turtleneck bodysuit paired with flowy wide-leg trousers is peak cool-girl Thanksgiving.
Why This Slaps:
- Bodysuit stays tucked (bless)
- Wide-leg trousers give movement and comfort
- It’s polished but still totally comfy—best of both worlds
Sarcastic Sidebar:
Will your aunt say, “Wow, you’re so dressed up!” Yes. Will she be secretly jealous that you look amazing and feel like you're in pajama pants? Also yes.
Wrapping It All Up: So, What’s the Move?
Thanksgiving style isn’t about turning your dining room into a runway (although, let’s be real—it kinda is). It’s about finding that perfect balance between looking cute and staying comfy while feasting, socializing, and dodging awkward family convos.
Whether you’re going full fashion-forward or snuggly and low-key, the goal is to feel like your best self—even if you’re carrying a pie in one hand and a to-go container in the other. 🥧
So go ahead—pick your look, grab your stretchy pants, and own Thanksgiving like the stylish queen you are.
And hey, if someone compliments your outfit? Just smile, say “Thanks, it has pockets,” and walk away like you won Thanksgiving.
Happy feasting, friend! 💛🦃