Spice Up Your Thanksgiving Dinner Attire with a Blast from the Past
It’s finally November. We’ve almost made it through a year unlike any other in recent memory. 2020 is on its way out, and what will hopefully be a less eventful 2021 is on its way in.
Thanksgiving will soon be upon us and even though it may look a little different than what we’re used to, that doesn’t mean you can’t still have some fun with what you wear to dinner. I’ve always loved getting dressed up for Thanksgiving dinner, pulling some creative ensemble out of my closet and dazzling my nearest and dearest as I pass the turkey plate down the table. This year, the number of relatives gathering at my grandparents will be a great deal smaller than usual and masks will most definitely be involved. Despite all the changes, I’m very much looking forward to Thanksgiving this year, even more than usual. For one, I’ve got a lot more to be grateful for: my health, the health of my family and friends, and the fact that I managed to pull through some of the darker days of COVID-19 isolation. Thanksgiving 2020 is the perfect occasion to go big with your dinner ensemble. Let’s celebrate! We made it this far, didn’t we? On that note, here’s how to craft a look that’ll earn you no shortage of wows as you make your grand entrance.
Since Thanksgiving guest lists are likely to shrink in order to protect those most at risk, some of our older relatives may not be able to join us in person this year. However, you can still acknowledge their presence and importance by wearing an heirloom piece or two. I personally love vintage clothing and have accumulated a collection containing pieces I’ve found at thrift stores and on Etsy, as well as inherited clothing and jewelry from my older relatives. I encourage you to blend the old and new to create something extra special this Thanksgiving. There are so many great fashion trends from our current era that pair up beautifully with those from decades past, and sometimes complement one another really well. Why not pair that strand of pearls gifted from your great-grandmother with a cozy yet chic Zara sweater in a pastel or neutral tone and a light-wash pair of 1980s mom jeans “borrowed” from your mom’s closet? Show everyone the strong and successful businesswoman you’re on your way to becoming with a power blazer in a bright and bold color, bedecked with a statement costume jewelry brooch discovered at a nearby thrift storeFinish the look with black tights, a complementary colored miniskirt, and a pair of heels in classic black, and you’re all set. Want a hint of old Hollywood glamour? Red lips and a curve-hugging wrap dress found in the back of grandma’s closet might be just the thing!
My advice to you is to pick either a specific era or aesthetic you want to emulate. Try pulling up a related Pinterest board or look up a vintage Instagram account for ideas. The key here isn’t to go over-the-top and dress yourself in something so period-accurate that you’ll be worried about spilling something on it, but to instead put together an outfit that’s both modern and vintage simultaneously. Start by looking through your own closet. Try and find something that catches your eye. Once you’ve picked out a contemporary piece or two, the next step is to think about what’ll add that special “vintage twist”. Is there a pair of chandelier earrings that might look adorable with a particular blouse or a brand-new camisole that would complement that retro lace cardigan found at a thrift store?
The best part about putting outfits together like this is that it allows you to be creative, to be unique and escape the confines of fast fashion. Be true to yourself and set yourself apart from the crowd by wearing what makes you feel special.
Have a happy, safe and fashionable Thanksgiving. Can’t wait to see what awesome looks you come up with. Until next time!
Au Revoir,
Matea xo