Plus Size Thanksgiving Outfit Ideas: Kaftans and Caftans for Women 1X–3X

Thanksgiving is on Thursday, November 26 this year, and for most of us it means a long day: cooking, greeting family, sitting at the table for hours and then sinking into the sofa. If you wear sizes 1X–3X, the best plus size Thanksgiving outfit is one that looks put together in photos and still feels good after the second helping. A plus size kaftan dress does both: it has no waistband, it skims rather than clings, and one size fits 1X–3X for most Gypsie Blu kaftans.

Here are our favourite Thanksgiving outfit ideas built around kaftans and caftans for women, from cosy family dinners to dressier celebrations.

Why a kaftan works for Thanksgiving dinner

• No tight waistband. A caftan for women falls loosely from the shoulders, so you stay comfortable through a long meal.
• Easy to move in. Wide 3/4 kimono sleeves on most of our styles stay out of the way when you're cooking or carrying dishes.
• One size, less guesswork. Most Gypsie Blu kaftans are made as one plus size garment that fits 1X–3X, with a 52-inch maxi length.
• Dress it up or down. Add boots and a cardigan for a casual day, or jewellery and heels for a formal dinner.

Thanksgiving colours: what to wear

Warm fall shades photograph well against candlelight and autumn table settings. Look for brown, rust, orange, deep red and olive, or keep it classic with black and jewel tones like teal. Prints such as paisley, tribal and tie-dye hide small spills better than a light solid colour, which helps at a busy table.

7 plus size Thanksgiving outfit ideas

1. The cosy family dinner: a brown paisley kaftan

The brown paisley bandana kaftan has a round neckline, kimono sleeves and a 52-inch length. Wear it with ankle boots and a long cardigan for a relaxed fall look that still feels special.

2. Fall colour in one dress: a red and orange tribal kaftan

The red and orange tribal totem kaftan brings every autumn colour into one print. It has a V-neck and 3/4 kimono sleeves. Add gold hoops and brown sandals or boots.

3. Earthy and easy: an olive tie-dye kaftan

Olive is a softer alternative to brown. The olive tie-dye kaftan is a full-length maxi kaftan dress with a V-neck. Pair it with a tan belt to shape the waist and a cream knit wrap for cool evenings.

4. Bold and bright: an orange and red floral kaftan

If you're hosting and want to stand out, the orange and red bold dahlia kaftan is a cheerful choice. Keep the accessories simple so the print does the work.

5. Deep red for the dinner table: a red geometric kaftan

The red geometric tribal kaftan has a white medallion print and a fringed hem. Red reads festive without feeling like a Christmas outfit yet.

6. The dressier celebration: an embroidered satin kaftan

For a formal dinner or a Friendsgiving party, choose a satin kaftan. The teal embroidered satin kaftan has embroidery and lace details, a V-neck and kimono sleeves. Our classic black satin kaftan is our best seller and works for every holiday this season. See more in our embroidered kaftans.

7. The relaxed day after: a short kaftan with leggings

For leftovers, football and shopping, switch to a plus size tunic top, also called a short kaftan or short caftan. The orange ombre paisley tunic is 36 inches long and pairs with leggings or jeans. Read our guide to plus size tunic tops and short kaftans for more ideas.

How to style a kaftan for fall weather

• Layer on top: a long cardigan, denim jacket or wrap keeps you warm on the drive and comes off at the table.
• Add tights or leggings: under a maxi kaftan they add warmth and nobody sees them.
• Choose closed shoes: ankle boots, loafers or flat mules all work with a 52-inch maxi.
• Shape it if you like: a belt at the waist gives a defined silhouette for photos, and comes off after dinner.

For more ways to wear one dress, see how to wear a kaftan or caftan and our kaftan styling guide.

When to order for Thanksgiving

In-stock kaftans arrive in 6–11 business days, and made-to-order styles take 12–18 business days. To have an in-stock kaftan by Thanksgiving, order by Monday, November 9. Made-to-order styles take longer, so if you are not sure whether a style is in stock, contact us before you order. Shipping is free in the US.

Plus size Thanksgiving outfit FAQs

What should a plus size woman wear to Thanksgiving dinner?

Something comfortable with no tight waistband that still looks dressed up. A maxi plus size caftan dress in a fall colour, with boots and a cardigan, is easy to wear all day.

What size kaftan should I order?

One size fits 1X–3X for most of our kaftans. Check the product page for the measurements of the style you choose.

Can I wear a kaftan to a formal Thanksgiving?

Yes. Choose satin or embroidery, add statement earrings and heels, and it looks as dressy as an evening gown.

What colours are best for a Thanksgiving outfit?

Brown, rust, orange, deep red and olive suit the season. Black and jewel tones like teal are a safe choice if you want to wear the same dress again at Christmas.

How long does delivery take?

In-stock kaftans arrive in 6–11 business days and made-to-order styles in 12–18 business days.

Shop your Thanksgiving kaftan

Browse all plus size kaftans and caftans, our best sellers, or our satin kaftans for dressier dinners.

Keep reading

• Black kaftan for women: plus size black caftans and how to style them
• Holiday party style: ways to wear kaftans this Christmas
• Kimono dress vs kaftan: what's the difference?

Want the story behind the holiday? Read the history of Thanksgiving at History.com.