Your thanksgiving outfit is important as it is a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy delicious food, and share in the holiday spirit. If you’re heading to your partner’s family celebration, you’ll want to look your best—without stealing the spotlight. The key to a perfect Thanksgiving outfit is striking a balance between style, comfort, and warmth, all while staying true to the laid-back yet festive vibe of the season. Whether you’re meeting your partner’s family for the first time or you’ve been a part of their holiday traditions for years, here are some Thanksgiving outfit ideas for men that will help you leave a lasting impression.
Classic Casual with a Touch of Fall Flair
If you’re aiming for a casual but thoughtful look, start with a well-fitted sweater or a long-sleeve shirt in a fall color like burgundy, olive, or mustard. Pair it with chinos or dark denim jeans to keep things comfortable but polished. For a touch of Thanksgiving charm, consider a sweater with a subtle pattern, such as a textured knit or a classic plaid shirt. This look strikes the perfect balance between casual and smart, making it ideal for a relaxed but stylish dinner.
Smart-Casual with a Crisp Button-Down
If you have plans for a more formal Thanksgiving dinner, a smart-casual approach will ensure you’re looking sharp without overdoing it. Opt for a crisp button-down shirt in a fall-friendly fabric like flannel or a cotton blend. Pair it with tailored chinos or dark dress pants. A lightweight blazer can elevate your look without making you too overdressed. Keep the colors muted or choose a plaid or houndstooth pattern for a festive, seasonal feel.
Layered and Cozy with a Sweater Vest
For those Thanksgiving dinners where you know it’ll be a bit chilly, layering is key. A classic sweater vest over a button-down shirt creates a stylish, preppy look that’s both warm and refined. Pair it with tailored trousers or dark jeans for a polished yet cozy ensemble. This outfit works well if your partner’s family tends to dress up a little but you don’t want to go overboard.
Seasonal Pattern Play: Plaid and Tweed
When in doubt of what to wear as your thanksgiving outfit, plaid is a fall favorite that’s both classic and on-theme for Thanksgiving. A well-tailored plaid shirt paired with chinos or denim is an easy way to look put-together without overthinking it. If you want to dress up the look, opt for a plaid blazer or tweed jacket. Tweed adds texture and warmth, making it perfect for those colder November nights, while plaid brings a bit of festive cheer.
Relaxed Denim with a Tailored Twist
If you prefer to stick with denim for your thanksgiving outfit but want to look a bit more polished, opt for dark, slim-fit jeans. Pair them with a well-fitted sweater, crewneck or v-neck, and layer with a casual blazer or jacket for a relaxed but smart appearance. This outfit works well for both casual dinners and more informal gatherings. The key is to avoid anything too baggy or distressed, as that can make the outfit feel too laid-back.
Preppy Layers for a Refined Look
For a touch of sophistication for your thanksgiving outfit that’s not too formal, go for a preppy layered look. A lightweight sweater over a collared shirt, paired with chinos or corduroy pants, gives off a stylish yet approachable vibe. You can also experiment with layering a cardigan over your shirt for extra warmth and texture. This outfit is ideal for a Thanksgiving dinner that’s a bit more elevated but still comfortable enough to enjoy a hearty meal.
Comfy and Stylish: The Casual Hoodie Combo
For a more laid-back Thanksgiving with close family and friends, your thanksgiving outfit could be a stylish hoodie paired with chinos or even a sharp pair of joggers could work. Choose a neutral hoodie in a sophisticated color (think charcoal gray, olive green, or navy) and pair it with smart-casual trousers. This look is for those who want comfort without sacrificing style. It’s also a good choice if the dinner will have a more casual vibe, but you still want to look thoughtful.
Jacket and Jeans: Effortlessly Cool
If you’re looking to impress with your thanksgiving outfit but don’t want to look too stiff, a tailored jacket paired with well-fitted jeans is a great go-to option. A blazer in a subtle checkered pattern, combined with dark jeans and a simple shirt underneath, strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual. You’ll look sharp without feeling out of place or overdone.
