Off The Cuff
City girl or country girl? Here's how to look chic and comfortable in eitherThanksgiving setting
The holidays are all about being with family, giving thanks and being grateful for what we have. If we are fortunate enough to have a family, there is nothing quite like getting everyone together, eating, drinking laughing and sharing stories. But let’s face it, for the fashion savvy woman it is also another opportunity to look your best and show off your personal style!
I think many women wonder what to wear to a Thanksgiving gathering, particularly if you have in-laws, a large family, or multiple get-togethers. It is important to look your best and feel great but also very key to be comfortable. We Houstonians also have the elements to deal with, when in late November we should be clad in jackets, tights and boots but instead we are stuck with balmy, warm and unpredictable conditions.
So, the question is, how do we create a look that is in season, on trend, stylish and comfortable?
Whether you are planning on getting out of the hustle bustle and retreating to a family home or staying within the city walls, style should never be compromised. Every woman should know that when you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you are able to be the best version of yourself. Thus it is important to put in the effort to make sure you have a little bit of fashion armor to make you feel special, whether it’s with a new handbag, a cozy knit, funky flats or a colorful scarf.
To help you stay chic and comfortable this Thanksgiving holiday, I have created two key looks to give you some direction…
For a Thanksgiving in the country
If you are like me and have plans to celebrate Thanksgiving outside of the city this year, there are some super stylish options to help you play the part. Classic denim and riding boots are essentials for this type of getaway. I am currently obsessed with these jeans by Mother (in top graphic) – I love the lighter wash and super soft denim, and the back pockets are perfectly placed to flatter your derriere.
I have been searching for the perfect pair of riding boots for some time now, and found that despite the many, many options out there it is hard to find a style I love. I finally fell for this pair from Gorsuch, because of the minimal hardware and slim fit.
For clothing color options, think of earth tones (browns, greens, and khakis) and natural fabrics like cottons and woven knits, which are so well represented in this Ralph Lauren sweater. I love the olive color and the modern detailing with the slightly poufy shoulders.
The brown suede Marcie tote by Chloe can be trendy and chic when carried in the city or perfectly equestrian in the country, especially when paired with riding boots. I cannot get enough of the YSL Arty ring and my new favorite is by far this green and gold flecked glass version. The colors are amazing. Finally, accessorize with a chic Missoni throw to carry outside after your meal with a glass of wine in tow and take a nap in the grass.
(For a Thanksgiving in the country, top left clockwise in upper graphic: Gorsuch boots, YSL Arty ring, Missoni throw, Ralph Lauren sweater, Chloe Marci tote, Mother jeans)
For a Thanksgiving in the city
If you are planning to get together with family in the city, you can keep your look a little more updated and modern. A structured sweater like this one by Inhabit (shown in the second graphic) is a great way to keep cozy and stay stylish. The square neckline is contemporary and flattering.
Leather and Bordeaux are huge this season, and I personally think Current/Elliot created the perfect skinny leg pant to capture both trends. I know the idea of leather pants probably seems scary to many of you, so if you simply will not go there, try a sophisticated trouser or a wool and cashmere legging in a similar color by Stella McCartney. The looser fit will definitely prove to be more comfortable, especially if you opt to have both pumpkin and pecan pie.
Pair with a kitten heel. Balance out the edge of your leather skinnies with a sweet ballet flat made with a touch of sparkle, like this pair by Jimmy Choo. To tie your look together and add a pop of color, go for this Burberry checked wool scarf.
I am currently totally in love with everything Eddie Borgo – his accessories are so chic and modern. Accessorize your look with a simple stud like the cone stud earrings, which come in a fantastic rose gold to compliment the berry tones in your outfit.
Finally, grab one of this season’s it bags like the Alexander Wang Rocco in a soft gray to bring it all together. Bonus: the hardware on the bag is rose gold and will make you look very put together.
(For a Thanksgiving in the city, top left clockwise in second graphic: Inhabit sweater, Burberry scarf, Alexander Wang Rocco handbag, Current/Elliot skinny-stretch leather pants, Jimmy Choo flats, Eddie Borgo earrings)
I hope these looks inspire you to stay stylish and feel special this holiday. Even though it seems frivolous to worry about fashion during a time of family and giving thanks, just think of what Bill Cunningham once said: “Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life."
So suit up and have a little fun with it!
Lindley Arnoldy writes the fashion and style blog, The Flip Side.