Ladies, it’s that time of year again. The leaves are falling, the pumpkin spice is flowing, and we’re all gearing up for the great Thanksgiving migration. But let’s face it, holiday travel can be about as pleasant as Uncle Bill’s political rants at the dinner table. Yikes.
You deserve some ease during the holiday season. That’s why I’m here to help you navigate the fashion minefield of packing for Thanksgiving travel. We’re talking about holiday travel outfits that can take you from racing through airports to gracefully passing out on the couch after your third helping of your Mother-in-Law’s southern dressing. And the best part? You won’t need to lug around a suitcase bigger than your turkey.
So, buckle up (literally, because #safetyfirst), and let’s dive into the world of a Thanksgiving travel capsule wardrobe that is more versatile than your green bean casserole recipe.
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The Basics of a Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe
First things first: what exactly is a capsule wardrobe? It’s like Marie Kondo met Project Runway and had a really efficient, stylish baby. We’re talking about a collection of versatile pieces that mix and match to create multiple outfits. For Thanksgiving travel, this means packing light without sacrificing style or comfort (with emphasis on the comfort). Because let’s be honest, the only thing that should be overstuffed this holiday is the turkey.
So let’s start building your Thanksgiving travel capsule wardrobe packing list with these super stylish must-have items!
Essential Pieces for Your Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe
The Comfy-Chic Bottoms
A pair of jeans, some cozy lounge pants and leggings, and a stylish skirt are all you need for multiple outfits that take you from the trails to the dinner table.
BLUE JEANS
For when you want to look put-together but still be able to breathe after dinner.
luvamia Wide Leg Jeans
What I Love:
- Flattering high waist
- Stylish, trouser style, wide-leg with cuffed look
- Slight stretch helps them keep their shape and give you room to move
SWEAT PANTS
Because sometimes pants with buttons are just too much to ask.
Aleumdr Women’s High Waisted Drawstring Waist Wide Leg Sweatpants
What I Love:
- Detailing down the front makes them look neat and stylish
- Super comfy material that’s cozy but not too hot
- Can double as pajama pants, saving you space in your luggage
MIDI SKIRT
Preferably one that can hide gravy stains. Just kidding. (Sort of.)
Luvania Corduroy High-Waisted Button-Down Midi Skirt
What I Love:
- Warm, corduroy fabric screams Autumn vibes
- Stylish, flattering, and versatile A-line cut
- Comfortable, yet flattering elastic waistline
LEGGINGS
Perfect for turkey trots and chasing those deals.
BALEAF Women’s Leggings with Pockets
What I love:
- 3 different inseam length options to fit your stature and length preference
- High waist that is flattering yet doesn’t dig in
- Supportive fabric that’s moisture-wicking and isn’t see-through
Layering Tops
BASIC LONG SLEEVE TEES AND TURTLENECKS
Think solid neutral colors or a basic striped tee that can go with everything. Like Switzerland, but for your wardrobe. They’re the most versatile piece in your Thanksgiving capsule wardrobe.
ANRABESS Women’s Long Sleeve Crewneck Ribbed Tops
What I Love:
- Ribbed stretchy material holds shape well
- Super flattering and perfect for layering
- 22 color options!
Areecin Mock Neck Top
What I Love:
- Stretchy, lightweight material holds shape all day
- -Flattering mock neck looks dressier than a typical tee and is perfect for layering
- 3 sleeve options, including long sleeve, sleeveless, and balloon sleeve with lace detailing.
Disamer Women’s Long Sleeve Mockneck Top
What I Love:
- Stylish striped stitching around the collar and wrists
- Also available in other beautifully unique striped and color block patterns
- Soft, lightweight sweater material
CROPPED CARDIGAN
For when the weather outside is frightful, but Mawmaw’s heating is… even more frightful.
MEROKEETY Women’s Cropped Cardigan
What I Love:
- Supersoft breathable knit sweater
- Fashionable cropped length with pockets
- Can be dressed up with a skirt or over a dress or dressed down with jeans or lounge pants
ZIP UP HOODIE
One of my favorite pieces of clothing! Wear it as outerwear, part of your outfit, or layered under a coat, depending on the temperature.
Trendy Queen Women’s Cropped Zip-Up Hoodie
What I Love:
- Soft fleece inner material
- Looks like a Lululemon dupe
- Thumb holes keep sleeves down and arms cozy
The All-Important Outer Layer
PACKABLE COAT
For escaping the madness of the indoors in favor of the potentially freezing Thanksgiving holiday weather, without overstuffing your luggage.
Outdoor Ventures Women’s Packable Puffer Jacket with Hood
What I Love:
- Easily folds up into its own pocket to fit in your backpack or carry-on bag, so you’re not stuck carrying it around the airport
- 2 outer pockets and one inner pocket
- 16 color options
Shoes to Take You the Distance
SNEAKERS
To take you from the fun run to the dinner table to the Target Black Friday sale.
adidas Women’s 70s Running Shoes
What I Love:
- Retro style that looks more like a casual sneaker than a running shoe
- Roomy feel (you’ll probably need to size down!)
- The comfort that you expect from Adidas shoes
BOOTS
For when you want to look cute but might need to make a quick escape.
Vince Camuto Women’s Bembonie Ankle Boot
What I Love:
- Wide, block heel adds height while still being easy and comfortable to walk in
- Beautiful suede material with gold buckle accent
- Expensive-looking, high-quality shoe
Accessories to Spice Up Your Looks
COZY SCARF
Cold weather accessory meets necklace.
liniste 100% Wool Scarf
What I Love:
- Soft, luxurious wool
- Looks much more expensive than it is
- Looks beautiful with both dressy and casual outfits
STATEMENT EARRINGS
In my opinion, the star of the outfit. I like to go big and shiny without going too over the top. This is also the perfect way to add pops of color, if that’s your thing.
Sunburst Style Hoop Earrings
What I Love:
- Made with brass and plated with 18k gold
- The “worn” gold look makes them pair with both casual and dressy outfits
- The gorgeous detailing
TOTE BAG
A stylish shoulder bag that holds everything you need and is a total upgrade from your old diaper bag.
Montana West Slouchy Hobo Bag
What I Love:
- Stylish, slouchy look
- Oversized large capacity for all the things
- Easy to dress up for down
10 Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas
1. Transit Comfort (Plane, Train, or Automobile)
Sweat Pants + Long Sleeve Tee + Zip-up Hoodie + Sneakers + Scarf = comfort that doesn’t scream “I’ve given up.”
2. Casual Family Gatherings
Jeans + Turtle Neck + Open Cardigan + Boots = “I made an effort, but I’m still ready to throwdown some mashed potatoes.”
3. Dressy Thanksgiving Dinner
Skirt + Stitched Hem Top + Boots + Earrings + Bag= “Yes, I can be trusted with the good china.”
4. Black Friday Shopping
Wide Leg Jeans + Stitched Neck Top + Sneakers + Coat + Tote = “Bring it on. I’m ready for anything.”
5. Turkey Trot or Fun Run
Leggings + Long Sleeve Tee + Zip-Up Hoodie + Sneakers = “I’m burning calories so I can eat more pie.”
6. Date Night
Skirt + Buttoned Cardigan + Statement Earrings + Boots + Bag = “Oh, this old thing? I just threw it on.”
7. Cooking Extravaganza
Sweatpants + Mock Neck Top + Sneakers = “Stir, baby, stir”
8. Outdoor Adventure
Leggings + Mock-Neck Top + Coat + Sneakers + Scarf= “Get me out of this house!”
9. Parade Poised
Leggings + Long-Sleeve Tee + Zip-Up Hoodie + Coat + Sneakers + Scarf = “I’m prepared to stand in the freezing cold for hourrrrrs.”
10. City Chic
Jeans + Buttoned Cardigan + Boots + Earrings + Scarf + Bag = “I do own clothes other than yoga pants.”
Packing Tips and Tricks
- Create a detailed packing list- it will keep you from throwing in extra things you don’t need. I’ve created an Autumn Packing list for you!
- Roll, don’t fold: It saves space and reduces wrinkles. It’s like yoga for your clothes.
- Use packing cubes: They’re like Tetris for your suitcase.
- Stuff your shoes: With socks, not stuffing. We’re not savages.
- Wear your bulky items while traveling (boots, heavy jackets, pants, etc) to avoid overpacking and save on baggage fees
- Pack comfy clothes that could also double as pajamas
- If you don’t need anything dressy, leave it at home!
For more packing tips and tricks check out our packing guides below:
Caring for Your Clothes While Traveling
- Always pack a travel-sized stain remover: Because gravy happens.
- Bring laundry detergent sheets for any necessary loads of laundry or sink washes
- Bring a wrinkle-release spray: It’s like Botox for your clothes.
- Freshen up activewear by hanging it in a steamy bathroom: It’s a spa day for your sweaty clothes.
Wrapping Up: Thanksgiving Travel Capsule Wardrobe
There you have it, ladies – a Thanksgiving travel capsule wardrobe that’s more flexible than your yoga instructor and more put-together than your Instagram feed. With these tips, you’ll be ready for all the Thanksgiving traditions from family photos to food comas, all while keeping your suitcase lighter than Grandma’s “low-fat” mashed potatoes.
Remember, the key to a relaxing Thanksgiving is being comfortable, and stylish, and having enough stretch in your waistband. So pack smart, dress well, and focus on what really matters – creating memories, dodging awkward questions about your love life, and sneaking extra servings of mashed potatoes.
Safe travels, and may your stuffing be tasty and uncomfortable conversations be short!
