Without fail, the holiday season always seems to sneak up as quietly as ever. And unlike the other 10 months of the year, dressing for these event-crammed weeks comes with an entirely new set of style codes, some more opaque than others. Of course, that can be doubly true for an intimate celebration like Friendsgiving, where dress codes can range from party-ready cocktail dresses all the way down to loungewear chic.
Still, because it’s likely the first of many holiday engagements on the calendar, it can be tempting to call on some of the fanciest pieces on your wishlist, but the best Friendsgiving outfit should strike a delicate balance between festive, comfortable, and polished. Think: cozy layers in of-the-moment colors, oversized silhouettes with a hint of stretch, or easy-wearing dresses with nary a zipper in sight.
Whether you’re hosting the big event and want to narrow the search for the perfect woolen sweater to waltz around the kitchen in, or you’re planning to play sous chef in a cozy jumper, the feast-friendly finds ahead will feel comfortable even after your third helping of sweet potato pie.
Turtleneck Sweater
This season’s perfect mock neck sweater should check three boxes: warm, oversized, and machine-washable. (Who needs a dry-cleaners trip added to their to-do list this time of year?)
Rib Knit Dress
The right sweater dress — ideally one that’s ribbed with a hint of stretch — may just be the ultimate home-for-the-holidays get-up. Wear it with knee-high boots and a red lip to give it a seasonal twist.
Embellished Top
A shirt made exclusively of gemstones may seem like an impractical, uncomfortable choice, but this style from Swedish darling Samsøe Samsøe has a hint of stretch — and a whole lot of shine.
Vinyl Midi Skirt
The shine of this faux-patent leather midi skirt lends it an intrinsically festive feel. Pair it with a slouchy sweater and pointed-toe slingbacks or knee-high boots.
Slingback Pumps
If there’s ever a place to splurge, it’s on comfortable heels that can be worn well beyond the holiday season, like this classic slingback style in deep, brooding Bordeaux.
Relaxed Jeans
For a less formal get-together, adopt the season’s top denim trend and pair baggy, wide-leg denim with a cardigan or button-down top for a look you can re-wear in weekends to come.
Back-Tie Shirt
Not your average black button-down, this style has a hidden cut-out back with an adjustable tie for, well, you know.
Kick-Flare Pants
For gatherings where loungewear isn’t just acceptable, but rather encouraged, opt for cozy-but-elegant ribbed-knit pants. These feature pintuck detailing and a high rise for peak comfort and style. Plus, the cotton/modal fabric with a hint of stretch means they’ll hold their shape.
Faux Fur Jacket
This cozy, fluffy coat is bound to nab you all the compliments — and make for a solid first impression with the rest of the guests while placing your baking dish of veggies in the kitchen.
Mixed Metal Earrings
An elegant pair of doorknocker earrings tie it all together. Opt for a mixed metal style, which feels equal parts nostalgic and modern.
Embellished Cardigan
The bow embellishments on this two-toned cardigan offers a more playful, less on-the-nose take on holiday season style. Plus, if jewelry isn’t your thing, let the bows take the place of a statement necklace.
Sheer Tights
Take note from the myriad of runways that called on tights as a way to enhance even the simplest outfits. This sheer black pair is about as soft, durable, and versatile as they come.
Suede Jacket
On the off-chance this month’s unseasonably warm weather settles into frigid temps, a suede layer is a smart — and decidedly on-trend — choice.
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