What to Wear for Thanksgiving: When You’re the Cook

Many of my American readers will be cooking and hosting Thanksgiving this year so let’s chat about things to wear that won’t impede your progress but will keep you looking stylish.

If you’re the hostess doing all the heavy lifting for Thanksgiving dinner, it’s a great idea to change outfits before your guests arrive. I’d love to think I could start my day in one outfit and look great to sit down to dinner with my guests in the same outfit, but that’s not realistic for me.

For all the messy things you do in the morning, start with a pair of comfy leggings or stretch pants with a lightweight short sleeve or 3/4 sleeve top. No one needs sleeves getting in the way, and now is not the time to wear a sweater because kitchens get hot! Choose colors that can handle a splash or two without staining and a full-coverage apron. Comfy footwear is the name of game here, so wear supportive flats that will help prevent foot and back fatigue.

BTW- here’s my Killer Pecan Pie Recipe

Right before guests arrive, change into the outfit you’ll continue to cook in but want to be seen in. If you’re anything like me, a fresh apron is mandatory by this point, and I like ones that coordinate with you’re outfit. Spills and splashes happen to the tidiest cooks, so don’t wear a precious silk blouse you’ll be devastated to destroy. Short sleeves are still helpful here, or at least ones you can roll up and have them stay up without adjusting.

CASUAL THANKSGIVING OUTFIT WHEN YOU’RE HOSTING

Chef hats add a fun, campy touch to your outfit, and if your grandchildren are coming, they’ll get a real kick out of it. The white blouse has interesting sleeve detailing that shows under the apron, but it stays out of your way while cooking. The jeans are a medium wash with a worn look that’s casual but not distressed or dressed down. Driving mocassins have a rubber tread that grips the floor when you’re moving fast. The Lapis earrings pick up the colors in this harlequin apron.

CASUAL POTLUCK THANKSGIVING OUTFIT FOR THE HOSTESS

For a slightly dressier look, just before guests arrive, pop on a pair of comfy pants and a blouse with sleeves that will stay up. Refresh your lipstick, and add some swingy leaf earrings and comfy shoes for your weary feet. Swap in a clean and festive apron and bring out fresh oven mitts. Waistbands are best on the looser side because you don’t want things to get tighter or uncomfortable while enjoying the delicious feast you’ve prepared.

HELPING TO SERVE THE THANKSGIVING FEAST

If you’re attending a potluck Thanksgiving and helping to serve, this look is comfy and festive. The etched leaf necklace nods to the season without wearing turkey earrings…although I think these are funny. Since you haven’t spent the entire day cooking, you can wear a cozier outfit and not feel like you’re roasting like the turkey. The lipstick is transfer-proof, which is always helpful at dinner parties.

The bottom line is you want to look and feel good while you’re preparing and/or serving the meal. Make sure you plan for moving around, getting warm, and being on your feet for an extended period of time. No matter what you chose, your family will really be focusing on the amazing memories you’re creating and won’t even remember what you were wearing. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Are you hosting, sharing duties, or serving this Thanksgiving?