Thanksgiving is the most relaxed of the big holidays, and still one where people care about how they look. It is long, the house is warm, there is a lot of food and there will be photographs. The right outfit is comfortable, polished and forgiving.

If You Are Hosting

You will be on your feet in a hot kitchen for hours, then sitting at the head of the table. Choose something easy to move in and easy to clean: a fine knit in a dark color, tailored trousers with a comfortable waist, and flat shoes or low boots. Keep a cardigan or a better layer nearby to change into when guests arrive, and wear an apron until the last minute.

If You Are a Guest

Dress slightly up from what you would wear on a normal weekend. A knit dress with boots, trousers with a silk blouse, or dark jeans with a cashmere sweater and a blazer all work. For men, a good sweater or a shirt with a jacket.

Comfort Is the Point

• Knit dresses and trousers with some give at the waist.
• Layers you can remove in a warm house.
• Darker colors that forgive a gravy splash.
• Shoes you can wear all afternoon.

The Colors

The season suggests rust, camel, burgundy, olive, cream and deep brown, and they look good in the photographs. Avoid white unless you are confident with cranberry sauce.

Traveling for the Holiday

If you are flying or driving, wear the comfortable version and pack a single nicer layer to put on before dinner. Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest of the year to travel, so a carry-on only is worth the effort.

Shop the Edit

• Vince Knit Blouson Midi Dress, Saks Fifth Avenue
• Jenni Kayne Cooper Cardigan, FWRD
• Vince Cashmere Turtleneck, Vince
• Vince Wool-Blend Tailored Wide-Leg Pant, Vince
• Alas Silk Button-Up Shirt in Milk White, Nordstrom
• Khaite Danielle Straight-Leg Jeans, Saks Fifth Avenue
• Hedley & Bennett Bistro Apron, Hedley & Bennett