How to Dress Like Yourself at the Family Thanksgiving

While products featured are independently selected, certain items within the “Styled By” series were provided by Gap. Cut editors chose the rest.

The holidays mean obligatory family hangs are on the horizon. But before you resign yourself to a get-together spent in sweats or a dowdy hand-me-down from your great-aunt, reframe this time of year as a chance to flex your dressing-up talents in a way that’s both true to your aesthetic and effortlessly comfortable.

This look starts with a big, floofy skirt. In this case, a bubblegum-pink taffeta number from Coach, complete with a massive bow across the front. (But you can slot in anything big and flamboyant. Take up space! You deserve it.) Plus: It’s a grown-up version of something your mom may have dressed you up in for holiday parties of yore. Styled with a classic button-down cardigan, it’s a demure combo (read: even your weird uncle won’t be able to complain about it, but honestly, who cares if he does), but accessories and add-ons offer a chance to show a bit more of your style. Not that the word coquette is one we’d ever suggest uttering at the family dinner table, but leaning into the romantic aesthetic that’s taken off on TikTok is a playful way to embrace a little holiday spirit without an ugly Christmas sweater.

The Look

Polish It Off

Simone Rocha’s earrings seem to suggest your presence is a present all its own, gift-wrapped and ready to be enjoyed! A Margiela bodysuit peeks out from under the cardigan, adding a textured collar detail. It’s also cute enough to show off if you get a bit too toasty while relaxing by the fire (or if you meet some friends to decompress over drinks post-shindig). Lastly, skip tights, which can induce stomachaches when partaking in a rich holiday meal. Instead, sheer calf-high hosiery is a little cheeky, peeking out from underneath your swoopy skirt. Complete the look with a pair of dressy pointy-toed heels, because who doesn’t need a bitchy little heel to be around some of their family.