If you’re in a serious relationship with someone, you probably find yourself spending a lot of time with that person’s family. You may have met the parents, siblings, and extended family by now. But if your boyfriend or girlfriend’s family is inviting you to their house for Thanksgiving dinner, you may be wondering what to wear. When going to someone’s house for dinner, it’s always best to respect the rules of the home and dress appropriately.
When should I bring a gift?
It is common for people to bring a hostess gift when invited for dinner. If you are unsure what the hosts would like, it is best to get something small that the host can use in the household, such as a bottle of cider, flowers, or a dessert.
The reason why people often bring their hostess gifts is that they want to show appreciation and respect. They also want the hostess to know how much they appreciate being invited into their home. This gesture will make them feel more comfortable in this new environment and lessen any feelings of awkwardness that may come from attending a social gathering with unfamiliar people.
How formal is it?
Your boyfriend’s family is important, and you want them to like you. But there are a lot of things that can go wrong if you don’t know what to wear. Here are a few guidelines for your outfit:
1) If it’s a formal occasion, wear something appropriate. This includes cocktail dresses and tuxes for the men and suits or black-tie attire for the women. A suit or dress will be appropriate at any event with an expected dress code (even if it isn’t specified).
2) If the event is less formal and not everyone will be dressing up, then consider your boyfriend’s family when deciding what to wear. Do they tend to dress casually? Then feel free to dress casually too! These cute midi dresses for Sweet Salt are usually a safe bet when deciding on a good medium.
Can I wear shorts?
Yes, you can wear shorts. However, it would be best if you were mindful of the length. Knee-length shorts are usually better than short shorts. Combing a pair of knee-length shorts and a blazer gives off a classy and polished look. I recommend pairing these with a white tank top or a button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up. You will also want to bring some flats because heels might not work well on grass or walks through fields if your boyfriend has any tradition of that! If you decide to go with heels, I would ensure they’re small, and kitten heel height is best. In addition, wearing makeup that is more natural looking instead of anything too heavy will help maintain your natural beauty while still looking dressed up for Thanksgiving dinner!
Is there a dress code?
Some families are more laid back and may not require anything formal. However, other families may want guests to wear something nice, such as slacks, a button-down shirt for the guys, or a dress for the ladies. Be sure to ask your boyfriend about what his family usually wears before arriving at their doorstep unprepared.
Are jeans allowed?
Jeans are great for traveling and many other occasions, but is it appropriate to wear them to a family dinner? It can depend on the family. In general, jeans are not the most formal option for a holiday meal. They can look sloppy and unkempt. On the other hand, they may be just fine if you’re going with a laid-back attitude or you know that your boyfriend’s family is typically very casual. When in doubt, cardigans for women give jeans a much dressier look.
If you are unsure what to wear, look at what your boyfriend is wearing. If he is wearing jeans and a t-shirt, you can do the same. If he is wearing slacks and a button-down shirt, you should also wear something similar. Remember that no matter how much fun it may be, this holiday dinner will be different from any others you have gone to.
