Plenty of people pull out their nicer outfits for Thanksgiving dinners, family photos, and long tables filled with turkey and mashed potatoes. But many others quietly do the opposite and show up in jeans, leggings, or whatever feels comfortable. There is a psychological reason why dressing up for the holiday can feel stressful or unnecessary.
Here, we’ll look at the possible explanations behind this choice, from social pressure to self-presentation theory. Then we’ll go through simple ways to enjoy the holiday in a way that feels authentic, whether you love a polished outfit or prefer something soft and stretchy.
Why dressing up feels stressful during Thanksgiving
For some people, getting dressed for Thanksgiving taps into worries about appearance and social expectations. Clothing is tied to identity, status, and how we believe others will judge us, and outfits play a big role in self-presentation. When you think your appearance will be evaluated—by relatives you haven’t seen in months or by a family that puts weight on tradition—you may feel pressure instead of excitement.
Thanksgiving involves long hours of cooking, cleaning, eating, traveling, and interacting with relatives. Clothing that looks good in photos isn’t always friendly to movement or big meals. Some people choose comfort because it reduces stress and helps them stay relaxed around others, especially in crowded homes.
There’s also the emotional history tied to family gatherings. If past holidays came with comments about weight, lifestyle, or personal choices, dressing up can feel like stepping back into an uncomfortable spotlight. Wearing casual clothes becomes a small form of protection—an attempt to keep expectations low and reduce the chance of unwanted attention.
For others, dressing up feels disconnected from their daily life. If your workweek already revolves around strict dress codes, the idea of putting on something formal on your one day off feels more like work than a celebration. Casual outfits offer a mental break and a way to signal that Thanksgiving is meant to be enjoyed, not performed.
As more Americans choose relaxed fashion—athleisure, denim, oversized sweaters—the idea of dressing up for a family meal feels outdated. People now link authenticity to comfort. In that sense, casual dressing becomes an expression of personal values rather than avoidance.
Tips to enjoy Thanksgiving more in your own way
If the expectation to dress up adds pressure, there are ways to create a middle ground that fits your style and the tone of the gathering. Here are approaches that help you feel comfortable without disconnecting from the moment:
- Choose upgraded comfort. Soft sweaters, dark jeans, and simple layers keep you at ease while still looking put-together.
- Use color to elevate basics. Fall tones—burgundy, forest green, navy—make simple outfits look intentional.
- Bring personality instead of formality. A meaningful piece of jewelry, a favorite flannel, or boots you love can feel special without being dressy.
- Dress for your activities. If you’re hosting, chasing kids, or cooking, flexible clothing makes the day easier. If you’re visiting, pick something you can comfortably sit in for hours.
Thanksgiving doesn’t have a single dress code. You can honor the day without forcing yourself into an outfit that doesn’t match your mood, your body, or your plans. The goal is to enjoy the food, the company, and the meaningful moments that matter.