packing and outfit ideas for thanksgiving

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Who travels home for Thanksgiving? We do. (All except for a couple years ago, when a baby was due about Thanksgiving time. Also being in your third trimester at Thanksgiving is amazing, because food never tastes better.)

This year we’ll be home a whole week to see family from across the country. So strategy was key. How could I bring less items, but still have plenty of options? I knew I wanted to be flexible, because I’m not sure what we’ll get into this week.

In the end, all my packing fits in one carry-on, with a few items in a tote bag. I was able to cut down to 14 pieces (minus undergarments, pjs, shoes, and coats). And the result? Effortless outfit combinations so I don’t have to stress over what to wear.

Oh, and also that jade roller and jewelry folio? I of course got those from my Winter FabFitFun box! You can read all about it in this post.

Tips to Remember

• Limit to colors that mix and match well. I chose camel, navy, gray, black, chambray, and blush.
• Start with basic tops and add versatile layers.
• Choose pieces that you can wear with multiple outfits. (Probably not the time to pull out that one sweater that really only works with one pair of pants.)
• I’m linking products, in case you’re on the hunt, but I bought most of these thrifted through ThredUp and Poshmark.

What I Packed

This is my official Thanksgiving outfit (I think).

4 Basic Tops

• black tank – linked a similar one to my favorite from the same brand, which have a scoop neck and a great drape
• sleeveless chambray button-up – long sleeves can be a bit cumbersome under a sweater, so this works better for me
• gray v-neck – these ones come in multiple colors and are super soft, plus a great deal
• white boxy blouse – this shirt is just classy and looks so good with cardigans. I can’t wear it all the time (because kids) but I think it’s so pretty.

3 Cardigans

• blush – a surprisingly versatile color! Linked mine, but currently in the market for a new one due to pilling. It’s lasted about a year.
• gray chunky knit cocoon – this one has a fun shape that’s a level up from a basic cardigan. It’s not for sale online anymore, but linking up a similar one.
• sweater blazer – you could opt for a different oversized blazer instead. This one has a cozy thick knit and goes with everything.

3 Pants

• black jeans – full disclosure: these were provided by Dickie’s last year for a sponsored Instagram post, but now I wear them all the time.
• jeans – love love love the fit of these ethical jeans
• silky joggers – a great comfy options for Thanksgiving!

2 Dresses

• black striped – I got this one at a thrift store, and it’s been a staple! Linking my favorite brand if you’re in the market for one (this one is navy).
• polka dot shirt dress – same brand! Not offered at the moment, but you can get a similar one. (See my review of this brand, too!)

2 Pullover Sweaters

• fisherman – I can’t not wear this around Thanksgiving. This one is from J. Crew Factory (I can’t get into it to get the link at the moment.)
• cowl-neck – a new favorite!

Outfits

   

How do you pack for Thanksgiving? What are some of your staples?