Someone once said, “Gratitude consists of being more aware of what you have, than what you don’t.” How true. Yet, how challenging to keep this in mind during what’s been a rough economical year. Still, the fact remains that Thanksgiving is about being grateful for what you have. So, instead of going out to buy a brand new outfit for a dinner of turkey and stuffing, I challenge you to work with what you have in your closet right now. Here are a few ideas.

Over sized button down shirt, leggings and ballerina flats, accessorized with a belt. This is your chance to raid your brother’s/husband’s/boyfriend’s closet for a patterned men’s shirt. Flat boots would also look great with this look.

Alex Cannon shirt from Smartbargains.com, leggings from Urban Outfitters, Bella Ballet flats from Payless and belt from jessieskillman at Etsy.com.

Roomy dress, slouchy sweater, skinny belt with patterned tights and oxford shoes or ankle boots. Do you see a pattern here? I’m suggesting wearing loose clothing, so you can chow down in comfort (and style).

Velvet Torch dress from 15DollarStore, 4 Button Cardigan from Spun, belt from juliaclairevintage at Etsy.com, Trellis Tights from Urban Outfitters and Liz Claiborne Raleigh shoes from OnlineShoes.com.

Plain t-shirt, your favorite cropped jacket, trouser pants and peeptoes. So easy to put together. Add a bright scarf or chunky necklace around your neck for a little drama. And, if you’re really feeling bold, why not add a cute hat, too?

T-shirt from Target, cropped Only Hearts jacket from Shopbop, Battery Park Denim Trousers from New York & Company, San Diego Hat Co. plaid newsboy from Indigo Sky NY and peeptoe pumps from Forever 21.

Here’s to gratitude, quality family time and yummy eats and treats. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.