Have you picked out any Thanksgiving outfits yet? Thanksgiving isn’t just about eating. You might be tempted to slip into your ultra-comfortable elastic waist pants. You should rethink that. There are at least two major reasons to look nice at Thanksgiving.

Put the Breaks on Overindulgence

First, if you wear something that is a bit more form-fitting, you’ll be more aware of what you’re eating. I’m not saying you should be dieting on Thanksgiving or anything. But if you’re anything like me, you might use the holiday as an excuse to just go wild. When I’ve done this in the past, I always had a major food hangover the next day, which is no bueno. I hate that food hangover feeling. I’ve found if I wear something a little more form fitting, I tend to eat a bit lighter and feel great the next day – so I can take advantage of the Black Friday sales and not feel like I have to lounge on the couch all day.

People Take Photos at Holiday Get-togethers

The second major reason to dress nicely on Thanksgiving is that you will likely be in some photographs. Do you really want to look back on the day and see yourself in sloppy sweat pants and a big ‘ole t-shirt? I’d personally rather look my best.

If you’re not sure how you can be comfortable AND look chic this Thanksgiving, here are a few suggestions, depending on how you will be celebrating this year.

What to Wear to Your ‘Friendsgiving’

If you’re spending time with friends this Thanksgiving, I like the idea of looking modern and chic. You probably don’t need to get too dressed up, unless your host suggests it. I would recommend wearing skinny jeans, booties or flats, an embellished sweater/blouse and add a few cool accessories. I love this look because it is comfortable but very fashion forward with colored jeans and layered sweaters. The flats also add some fun pattern to the look. You should definitely bring a coat in case you head out to look at Christmas lights or for a drink later in the evening. I personally love the look of this classic wool top coat, but you could opt for any modern wool or leather jacket. If you’re not into colored jeans, I also like the idea of wearing coated denim because they appear to be a bit dressier, but really, they are just stretchy leggings with some give.

What to Wear If You’re the Hostess

If you’re the hostess, It might seem a bit impractical to be dressed up. However, you set the tone for the entire day, so you should definitely look your best. I suggest wearing a skirt and a sweater like the one pictured above. The gold-tone skirt looks dressed up, but the look is still super comfortable because the skirt is flowy and the sweater is soft. You could also wear a cotton dress with some structure built into it. Another option would be a jersey wrap dress. All of these options won’t wrinkle, are comfortable, and are easy to clean, should you spill something on yourself. While you are preparing the meal, you should top your dress with a festive apron. I would suggest wearing short booties, or pointed toe flats to complete the look. Go easy on the jewelry, because you’ll be prepping and you don’t want necklaces or bracelets getting in the way. You could opt for a sparkly pair of earrings or search for a dress with some embellishments around the neckline or sleeves.

What to Wear If You’re Visiting In-Laws

If you’re meeting your boyfriend’s family for the first time or spending the holiday with your in-laws, I always think it’s a good idea to wear something that makes you feel confident. It’s up to you if that means wearing a dress, skirt or pants. I personally would wear a dress or skirt because I think it gives an instant sense of put-togetherness. Plus, I think it’s nice to look your best when you’re around your in-laws. If you look good, you’ll feel good and that will give you the confidence you might need if you sometimes feel uncomfortable around your in-laws. You could opt for a sweater dress and ankle boots, or leggings and a tunic. There are lots of ways you could go, just as long as you look nice. I would steer clear of jeans, but I do think dark slacks with booties and a sweater or blouse could work if you don’t want to wear a dress or skirt.

I hope these outfit ideas help you look and feel your best this Thanksgiving. No matter where you’re going or who you’ll be with, the most important thing is that you feel good about what you’re wearing. This will ensure you can enjoy the time with your family and friends and not think twice about what you’re wearing.