Same Outfit, Different Accessories: Thanksgiving Dress Codes

Some families spend Thanksgiving day curled up on the couch watching the game, others set the table for a candlelit dinner party, and many fall somewhere in between. Personally we usually host a relaxed yet curated family gathering where I still want to look put-together. The beauty of great styling is that one outfit can fit them all.

With the right accessories, any look can shift from cozy to chic in seconds. Think of it as a style remix: a change of shoes, a swap of earrings, a different bag, or even a quick hair adjustment can completely alter the tone of your outfit without changing the foundation.

Maybe it’s the same knit dress with socks and loafers for a laid-back day at home, reimagined with statement jewelry and boots for a family dinner, or elevated with heels and a sleek clutch for a festive soirée. 

Three outfit bases styled for three different kinds of Thanksgiving celebrations: casual, family, and elevated. Shoes, jewelry, bags, makeup, and even hair choices have the power to completely transform your look without changing your core pieces. So this year, skip the outfit panic and lean into versatility. 

My first outfit base is a midi suede brown skirt.

Outfit 1: Casual Gathering

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For a casual get together, a tone on tone outfit is perfect for fall. Pair a chocolate brown skirt with tan accessories and a cream top. Platform loafers always give the impression of being put together, yet casual.

Outfit 2: Family Lunch

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Step it up with some wine colored accessories for a chicer look. I’m obsessed with these heart earrings to celebrate the most romantic season. 

Outfit 3: Dinner Party

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For a more formal affair, a printed blazer over a lace cami will keep your outfit polished and youthful. Accessorize with elegant leather accessories and some standout jewelry


My second outfit base is a knit beige dress.

Outfit 1: Casual Gathering

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Casual doesn’t have to mean boring. Throw in some color, with blood orange accessories. Colorful sneakers are the perfect go-to shoes to spruce up any outfit.

Outfit 2: Family Lunch

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Lean into the boho. I’m obsessed with western style, and it’s not all cowboy boots and hats. An embroidered vest over a tan dress and fringe anything are the light motifs that make the look. 

Outfit 3: Dinner Party

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Even a sweater dress can be dressed up. Nothing does it quite like sparkles, especially when in bordeaux. Finish off with some elegant fine jewelry.


My third outfit’s base is a pair of burgundy corduroy pants.

Outfit 1: Casual Gathering

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Platform chelsea boots and a leather jacket are staples of the season to keep you warm and comfortable. Perfect for a casual Thanksgiving get together. 

Outfit 2: Family Lunch

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The perfect elegant but not fussy look for a family gathering. Elegant pearls perfectly kept down to earth with some polished loafers. And of course, always throw in a fun accessory like this Staud bag. 

Outfit 3: Dinner Party

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For a more elegant affair, bring out the sparkles. Of course in your jewelry, but also in your bags and shoes. It is the start of the holiday season and I know I’ll be adding this top to my wishlist. 

Thanksgiving style doesn’t need to be complicated, the cooking is stressful enough. With a few thoughtful swaps and styling choices, one outfit can adapt to any kind of celebration. You can always reimagine what you already have through accessories, texture, and attitude.

x Lili

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