What to Wear to Thanksgiving Dinner, According to Stylists

The secret to a standout holiday look might come down to one forgiving waistband. Here's how to dress for the dinner table without giving up that second helping of dessert.

Thanksgiving is just under a month away, and whether you meticulously plan your outfits or throw on the first thing you find, there are a few things to keep in mind before you dig into the cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes.

One point stylists seem to agree on is striking a balance between style and comfort. You'll want something that gives you enough room to relax after the feast while still feeling polished enough for the occasion. Stylist Hallie Abrams is firmly in that camp.

"Even if the dress code for your gathering is a bit more formal, always remember comfort, especially in the midsection, is key. I mean, if there is pecan pie involved, you've got to indulge," she says. According to Abrams, this approach comes with an added bonus.

"The great thing about Thanksgiving outfits is that if they work and they're comfortable, you can and should wear them again," Abrams explains. "You only wore them with a small group — so repurpose them and wear them to a meeting or a GNO."

In other words, a well-chosen holiday look can keep earning its place in your closet long after the leftovers are gone. If you're not sure where to begin, here are a few ideas to draw inspiration from.

Use a Sweater as Your Base

It is sweater weather, after all. While it might seem basic, a sweater is the perfect foundation, and the outfit can take a plethora of directions from there. Tuck it into a mid-length silk A-line skirt, add a coat and some heels, and you're good to go.

If you're feeling particularly dressy, you can always opt for a mini skirt, skort, or shorts paired with stockings and boots. Alternatively, reach for dressy trousers or stretchy jeans, especially if the temperature takes a dip.

The beauty of a sweater is that it does most of the work for you, keeping you warm while leaving plenty of room to experiment with everything else.

You Can Never Go Wrong With a Shirt Dress

A shirt dress is another versatile piece you can use as the foundation of an outfit. Its lightweight fabric means you can wear it year-round, making it an especially smart pick if you're celebrating Thanksgiving somewhere with a warmer climate.

Abrams says she would style it with pumps, but it would look just as fabulous with boots. "If it's cold, put a tissue turtleneck under or a leather jacket over it. The possibilities are endless," she adds.

Don't Be Afraid of a Little Leather

It might seem counterintuitive, but adding leather to your outfit doesn't mean sacrificing comfort for style. Think leather pants and a cashmere top, finished with a warm coat and pumps for instance.

"Leather pants might not seem like a comfortable option — but hear me out, please," Abrams says. "Leather (and faux leather) actually give and mold with your body, so they are a perfect option for mid-section comfort. AND I am not a martyr when it comes to waistband comfort; that is number one on my list of non-negotiables."

Whichever route you take, the goal is the same: walk in feeling confident and leave with plenty of room for seconds. After all, the best Thanksgiving outfit is one you'll enjoy wearing from the first bite to the last slice of pie.

For more inspiration, check out this season's style trends for staples to add to your closet.