Let’s talk Thanksgiving outfits for a second — not just the “what do I wear” panic that hits the night before, but the kind of outfit that feels right the moment you put it on. You want to look like you made an effort (without being overdressed), feel comfortable enough to sit through three hours of mashed potatoes, and maybe even pass for someone who inherited a beautiful old ring collection and knows how to make a good roast.
These 5 looks lean into that old money vibe — simple, timeless, and quietly polished. No glitter. No trends. Just clothes you feel good in, even if you’re the one basting the turkey.
Thanksgiving Outfit Look 1: The Classic Prepster
This Thanksgiving outfit just works. It’s cozy, classic, and you don’t have to think too hard about it. A cream cable-knit sweater, a navy skirt, and burgundy loafers — it’s simple, but somehow looks like you always had good taste. The kind of thing you’d wear while pouring wine and pretending you didn’t just Google how long to roast a turkey.
- Cream cable-knit sweater by Lily Silk
- Navy wool skirt (knee-length or longer, please)
- Burgundy leather loafers (Flattered)
- Gold earrings
- Gold watch (Fossil)
Thanksgiving Outfit Look 2: The Equestrian Enthusiast
This thanksgiving outfit says, “I spend weekends riding horses,” even if you’ve never been near a stable. Like maybe you stopped by for lunch after a morning at the stables (even if your actual morning was spent reheating coffee twice). A soft turtleneck, easy trousers, and worn-in boots do the trick. Add a slim belt or a little gold bracelet if you’re feeling fancy — no need to overdo it.
- Lightweight Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
- Chocolate Thanksgiving Brown Boots
- Camel-colored Jodhpurs or Straight-leg Trousers
- Thin leather belt
- Gold horse-bit bracelet
Thanksgiving Outfit Look 3: The Scholarly Sophisticate
This one gives big “I read hardcover books and casually quote Jane Austen over pie” energy. The blouse is silky and elegant, the pleated skirt is classic, and the glasses are optional but very much encouraged. You’ll look smart, stylish, and entirely put-together — even if you forgot to bring the cranberry sauce.
- Ivory Silk Blouse with a Pussy-Bow Necktie
- Buckle pleated Skirt (Knee-Length)
- Black Leather Pumps or Black Kitten Heels
- Tortoiseshell Reading Glasses
- Black Leather bag
Thanksgiving Outfit Look 4: The Country Club Queen
This is your preppiest look — soft, polished, and slightly playful. Like you just came from tennis but made it fashion. The pink cardigan is sweet, the white shirt keeps it crisp, and the ballet flats are Thanksgiving MVPs (comfortable, cute, and won’t sink into the grass if you’re eating outside). Bonus points if someone comments on your “tennis bracelet.”
- Pastel pink cashmere cardigan
- White tailored shirt
- Nude ballet flats
- Delicate diamond necklace
- Tennis bracelet (because of course you play)
Thanksgiving Outfit Look 5: The Modern Heiress
This one is simple but quietly powerful. Like someone who has opinions on stocks and also brought homemade sourdough. The silk blouse and tailored trousers make you look completely pulled together, and the pointed flats keep it graceful but grounded. A delicate gold necklace and structured bag finish it off. No fuss, all elegance.
- Ivory silk blouse
- Forest green wool trousers
- Black pointed-toe flats
- Delicate gold necklace
- Black Leather bag
Makeup and Hair: The Natural Look
Keep it easy. Old money makeup is all about looking like you didn’t try, even if you spent 10 minutes on the perfect neutral lip. A little blush, mascara, and maybe brow gel is all you need.
Hair? Soft waves, a low ponytail, or a simple blowout are all safe bets. Nothing too trendy or stiff.
The Confidence Factor: Fake It ‘Til You Make It
Real talk: you could wear any of these thanksgiving outfits and still not feel great if you’re not comfortable in your own skin. So stand up tall, smile, make eye contact, and don’t stress if your skirt wrinkles or your blouse isn’t perfectly tucked. Half of old money elegance is just… attitude. Calm, kind, unbothered.
(Also — if you’re not sure which fork to use? Start from the outside and work your way in. That’s it.)
One Last Thing: Make It Sustainable
Old money style is secretly all about quality over quantity. Not fast fashion. Not impulse buys. Just good pieces that last for years and feel good to wear. If you’re shopping for any of the pieces above, lean toward brands that care about how they make things. It feels better — and looks better — in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Outfits
What is a good outfit to wear for Thanksgiving?
Something you can breathe, eat, and laugh in. Look for cozy sweaters, tailored skirts or trousers, and shoes that aren’t too fussy. Comfort + polish is the goal.
What color to wear on Thanksgiving?
Earthy tones always work: rust, navy, forest green, camel, cream. But soft pastels can surprise you, too — especially with gold jewelry or cozy knits.
Can I wear black to Thanksgiving?
Absolutely. Just balance it out with texture (like cashmere or silk) or soft accents so it doesn’t feel too harsh. A black skirt or top with gold jewelry and a relaxed hairstyle? Effortless.
In the End…
Thanksgiving isn’t about being the best dressed in the room. It’s about feeling like yourself in a way that feels slightly more put-together than usual. A good outfit should make you feel confident but still let you breathe, hug your grandma, and sneak a second slice of pie without unbuttoning anything.
And if gravy ends up on your sleeve? That’s what napkins (and stories) are for.
Happy Thanksgiving, truly. 🦃
These 5 looks lean into that old money vibe — simple, timeless, and quietly polished. If you’re already building your fall capsule wardrobe, a lot of these pieces probably live there. No glitter. No trends. Just clothes you feel good in, even if you’re the one basting the turkey.
