This Pic of Reese Witherspoon and Emilia Clarke Twinning Is the Only One You Need to See Today

The best dress for girls who love a classic fall moment:

Ann Taylor Crew Neck Knit Dress

Classic fall outfits are always going to get us through the cooler season because they're effortless, like this striped knit dress. Using it as a base, you can add a lightweight trench coat for rainy days or a wool number when you need extra warmth. Next up, step into a pair of knee high boots and voilá! You'll have a low-fuss outfit that still looks chic.

The best dress for anyone who's tired of boring sweaters:

By Anthropologie Tulle Twofer Mini Dress

I've already added this dress to my wishlist because it's so pretty. I love anything that looks super feminine or frilly so this is one of those petite dresses I could wear every week if I had the chance. If you're on the hunt for anything that puts your other sweater dresses to shame, I highly recommend you buy this tulle mini dress!

For the girl who loves wearing colorful outfits:

Boden Ribbed Metallic Dress

The edit team at Brit + Co loves colorful pieces, which is why this metallic dress is beckoning to me. Besides the shimmery flecks, the expertly placed shades of hunter green, bubblegum pink, marigold, magenta, maroon, and cerulean blue are gorgeous.

I imagine this is something Ms. Frizzle would wear if she were in the modern world, and I mean that in the best way ever.

The best dress for the girl who loves a fun party moment:

Maeve Tweed Fit & Flare Mini Dress

This is the ultimate party dress for the girl who needs the perfect choice for the holidays. It's giving modern brocade and I'm 100 percent ready for it to appear in my closet. Even if I can't get my hands on it, I sincerely hope you can because you'd look stunning in it.

Just look at the fit & flare fit. It's known for being one of the most flattering designs for all body types and it happens to make us petite girls look like we're floating from one room to the next.

For anyone who knows animal print and fall belong together: 

Miss Selfridge Animal Print Dress

To you, animal print during fall is like wearing florals during spring; you have to have it. I don't blame you because it's basically a neutral print that you can build several outfits around. This dress has a little bit of leopard and cheetah print mixed together for something that feels fresher than what we've seen, meaning it could very well work in your favor.

MANGO Leopard Print Dress

But if you don't care about mixing animal prints, stick with the tried and true leopard pattern us millennials love so much. You seriously can't go wrong, considering this dress happens to get the pattern and color just right (meaning it doesn't look cartoonish). Plus, it's begging you to throw a denim or trench coat over your shoulders.

The best plus size dress for the girl who loves flared hemlines:

Lane Bryant Shimmer Shirred Dress

I'm a firm believer that petite styles aren't reserved for one body type so I couldn't wait to share this cute dress with you! It has that familiar fit & flare fit I mentioned earlier, plus there's a bit of shimmer if you need something that feels holiday-friendly.

Petite LC Lauren Conrad Swing Dress

Let's keep the party going with this all-over sequin dress from Lauren Conrad's collection at Kohl's. This simple swing dress can be paired with black tights and heels that feature a diamante moment.

PrettyLittleThing Bandeau Structured Velvet Dress

Want a petite dress that feels a little more structured? Check out this cute velvet dress! It's designed to cinch your waist while flaring out your hips to create something that doesn't feel like you're reliving that one dress you used to wear to the club.

For the girl who doesn't care about petite 'rules':

The Somerset Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses can be a hit or miss for petite girls, but this dress works exceptionally well. It'll stop right before your ankles instead of dragging the floor, giving you one of the best fall dresses you'll own. I'm biased because I think everyone should have at least one black maxi dress in their closet that's not ribbed or fitted. Though those options serve their purpose, especially on cozy days, I think flared or flowing dresses have an appeal that complements fall.

Dolan Long-Sleeve Square-Neck Mini Dress

This preppy dress would be perf for a more formal Thanksgiving. Family pictures incoming!

Banana Republic Factory Off-Shoulder Midi Sweater Dress

Sweater dresses are the epitome of fall and winter. Bundle up in this long sleeve version that still gives you a bit of sexiness, thanks to the off-shoulder silhouette.

By Anthropologie Sleeveless Mock-Neck Belted Knit Mini Dress

The belt on this chic chocolate brown mini dress is everything. Throw on some tights and a cardigan to warm up the look even more!

Gap Shift Mini Dress

This pick is simple, but you can instantly amp it up with fall layers like a sweater and a chore jacket.

Gap Satin Mini Dress

So smooth! This satin mini from Gap will work in some varied textures into your Thanksgiving outfit. It's such a staple piece, too, so you could wear this style in any season, really.

Reformation Micah Knit Dress

Grab this structured mini and some tall boots, and boom: your Thanksgiving 'fit will be giving.

Ann Taylor Houndstooth V-Neck Sleeveless Shift Dress

Loose-fitting dresses like this are totally food baby-approved since they don't hug your figure too tight.

Splendid Marigold Maxi Sweater Dress

This elegant sweater dress is perfect for those of you who like to dress more modest around the holidays. It'll also keep you nice and warm!

Abercrombie & Fitch One-Shoulder Knit Mini Dress

The rich red wine color of this dress is Thanksgiving's BFF. Talk about a perfect palette!

The Avenue Mini Dress

The flirty ruffles on this mini give your look some nice shape. I love that this dress supplies a good amount of coverage, but still gives you the opportunity to show off a bit of skin since it has a playful open back design.

A New Day Heavy Satin Mini Dress

I think squared necklines are so universally flattering. You'll be able to accessorize this mini in no time!

Ann Taylor Faux Leather Mixed Media Dress

If you're growing tired of the expected knit and cotton dresses, opt for this foxy faux leather number.

Petal & Pup Nova Long Sleeve Maxi Wrap Dress

The wrapped waistline on this dress will instantly flatter your body, plus you can tie it as loose or tight as you please. That'll most definitely come in handy for a post-Thanksgiving feast nap!

Bali Painterly Paisley Velvet Maxi Dress

The pattern alone on this maxi gives it an unmissable eye-catching effect.

Banana Republic Sculpted V-Neck Maxi

All this scooped v-neck dress needs is a cute pair of ballet flats for a fun and comfy Thanksgiving get-up!

A New Day Mini Velvet Ruched Dress

Pair this neutral-colored velvet dress with some tall black boots and a denim jacket for a perfectly balanced Thanksgiving outfit.

Treasure & Bond Cabled Long Sleeve Sweater Dress

Cable knit is the coziest texture for fall and winter weather. You're gonna be the absolute comfiest gal at the table in this pick!

Ann Taylor Belted Midi Shirtdress

Shirt dresses are a classic dress shape, no matter the occasion. This sophisticated style even comes with a convenient belt to keep your Thanksgiving Day look in check.

Banana Republic Lightweight Ponte Mini Dress

This mock-neck mini is comfortably crafted from a stretchy material, so you can move about freely after the big feast.

Nordstrom Sleeveless Wool & Cashmere Rib Sweater Dress

This sweater dress would stun so hard alongside some bold black boots!

Wild Fable One Shoulder Maxi Slip Dress

Not only will this slip dress be perfect for Thanksgiving dressing, you can also rock it for work meetings, happy hours, and girly hangs year after year.

Treasure & Bond Floral Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

This maxi encapsulates everything I love about Thanksgiving fashion: comfortable coverage, a warm color palette, and fall florals!

Reformation Evra Dress

The people behind Reformation's dresses are total experts at creating romantic styles. This flowy maxi is beyond perfect for Thanksgiving, thanks to the ruffles, oversized collar, and rich colors.

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."