Written by Dia Stylist Ashby Vose

For me, Thanksgiving means spending time with my boyfriend’s family in New Jersey. Because I’m in New York City and my family lives in California, I usually save the long flight and airport crowds for December and stay relatively local for Turkey Day. I want to be sure to pack items that are comfortable enough for me to cozy up by the fireplace but will still look great in family photos—which is why #CozyConfidence is a style I can get behind.

Read on for my picks to get me through the long weekend of mingling, running around, and feasting with family.

travel-outfit-cardigan-denim

Travel Day on the Train

Traffic is always a total mess on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, with the NYC streets completely gridlocked, so I try to avoid it by traveling by train instead.

Even though I’m just headed to New Jersey, it’s a long train ride—and it will probably be a pretty crowded one, too. With my suitcase and side dish in tow, I need to wear something comfortable and functional. Slip-on sneakers, a functional tote, and jeans with stretch are a must. A light cardigan like this mauve one is great for the drafty train, keeping me warm without the bulk of a heavy coat.

animal print pant, black turtleneck

Drinks with Friends 

For many, Thanksgiving isn’t just a time to reunite with family, but also with old friends. Every year, my boyfriend, Joe heads to the local bar to meet up with his old friends from high school. I’ve met a few of them, but I still want to make a great impression.

A black top is my going-out go-to because it always looks polished, while this pant featuring a wild animal print makes my look both memorable and fun—perfect for making a quality first impression. To me, this outfit is the epitome of #CozyConfidence—a snuggly turtleneck and elasticized waist pant are an extremely comfy combo, while bold earrings and pointy flats give it that extra polish!

activewear outfit

Thursday Morning Turkey Trot

One of the traditions I miss from growing up is my family’s annual charity turkey trot. While I can’t be in California, I still like to be active before the afternoon’s lounging and feasting.

In the past, I would leisurely walk during the turkey trot, but I recently started training for an upcoming 5K, so a pre-Thanksgiving run is a great opportunity for me to keep up with my training! These versatile joggers are a great option for a short run (as well as for running any last-minute T-Day errands!), while this hoodie will keep me warm and can be easily tied at my waist when I work up a sweat. Once I’m done running, I’ll be ready to really enjoy the big meal.

floral midi skirt, mock neck sweater, suede jacket

Thanksgiving Dinner

Growing up, we always dressed up for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Easter—even my dad would retire his holey tee shirt for the occasion. Even though I’m not with my immediate family this year, I still like dressing up for the celebration.

A mock neck sweater and midi skirt provide a modest option without sacrificing style. The rich warm hues of the cognac suede jacket, bag, and booties go perfectly with the fall hues that the trees will be wearing—making this the perfect outfit for a family photo opp.

leggings, sweater, denim jacket

Black Friday Shopping

While my family always avoided the Black Friday crowds, Joe’s family likes to be the first ones in line for the best doorbuster deals. We show up at the store with coupons in hand—and even sometimes wait outside for the store to open its doors.

Comfy leggings, a pair of sneakers to save my feet from the hours of standing, and a hands-free crossbody bag make for the perfect shop-til-you-drop outfit. While I may be focused on hunting for holiday gifts, I also know myself well enough to admit a part of me is also constantly shopping for myself! This leggings-and-sweater outfit will easily let me try on anything that catches my eye.

plaid button down, cardigan, denim

Saturday’s Football Game

Every year, the annual Thanksgiving football game between my boyfriend’s alma mater and their rival school is a big deal. I may not care much about the sport, but I do love ballpark snacks and school spirit.

This plaid button-down flaunts burgundy, the school’s color (Go, Liners!) and is the perfect borrowed-from-the-boys item for a fall sporting event. A long cozy cardigan with pockets will keep me warm and hold my snacks while a bootie with a lower stacked heel is the perfect balance of stylish and practical.

What will you be wearing over Thanksgiving weekend? Make sure that you savor every moment, even the quieter ones, and take the time to put together an outfit that makes you feel stylish and comfortable! When you snap those photos, be sure to tag #CozyConfidence on Instagram to be entered to win a box full of cozy essentials for the season! Follow along on Ashby’s Thanksgiving festivities on her Instagram @ashbyvose.