Before the holidays hit full swing, the Black Friday sales, and all the glitz comes out to play, we embrace the Thanksgiving tradition with loved ones and the overall comfort this day brings. But, for me, it raises one main question - what do you really want to be wearing on Thanksgiving?

The answer to this question depends on both your family and your plans. Some families may embrace loungewear, while others take the opportunity to dress up. Some of us may be participating in “Friendsgiving,” staying home for a quiet dinner, or going away on vacation. What you wear should be based on your plans and how you want to feel the day of.

For me, that means dressing in a way that still feels special while maintaining a sense of ease as I spend time with my extended family. After a long day of intermittent eating and inactivity, the last thing I want to feel is not put together. (I.e., a hot mess). So, sweats and athleisure outside of the Turkey Trot (which I am doing this year) are an automatic no for me. With that said, I am being realistic about the fact that I’m spending the day at our families homes and not out in the City. As most of you may feel, I was caught in a grey area of deciding on something between a going-all-out holiday look and downtime attire. But, there’s a way to strike a balance.

Here’s three easy ways to look stylish without too much fuss, no matter what your plans are:

• Go with a sweater dress - A sweater dress serves as an entire outfit that looks put together without sacrificing comfort. Want to jazz it up? Add a belt and a long necklace with tights underneath. In a warmer climate? Go for a sleeveless cut or trade in a sweater knit for a lighter fabric maxi dress. Keep it seasonal with boots. Truth in advertising - I’ve decided on wearing one myself this year.

• Add heels -  Ditch the slippers, ladies. Heels will elevate any outfit. They also have a magic ability to make you feel confident in whatever you’re wearing. You can wear jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt or sweater with heels to complete the look. Booties, traditional pumps, kitten heels, open-toed or strappy - it doesn’t matter. If you want to get a little punchy, go for some sparkle or a pop of bright color to make your shoes the centerpiece of your outfit. And since we’re indoors, who cares how exposed our feet are?

• Wear a statement piece - As the wild card of your outfit, the statement piece can be jewelry, a scarf, a belt, or another fun accessory. I say stick with a bolder belt or necklace for a good amount of impact without going overboard. When wearing just one statement piece, the rest of your outfit can be kept simple. Think rhinestone collar necklaces, gold studded black waist belts, logo belts, colorful silk scarves, and chunky cuff bracelets. Let the piece do the talking and build a monochromatic or understated outfit around it. Cool, but chic.

I hope this post gives you a little push to experiment with your Thanksgiving outfit this year! While comfort is important, I believe we should always lean into the celebration when given the opportunity. There’s no better time to than the holidays, and we’re just getting started.

For more outfit inspiration, check out the pictures below! Happy Thanksgiving XO