9 Going-Out Looks That Don't Feel Try-Hard
Whether you're a karaoke-and-cocktails kind of person or prefer a quiet drink and a bite to eat at your pub, we're willing to bet that you already have a going-out uniform that you subscribe to.
It's good to shake up your outfits from time to time, and there are plenty of laid-back but chic looks to try for your next night out. Some of our favourite fashion people who have once again embraced going out at night have lots of fresh new outfit ideas, which, you'll be pleased to hear, don't involve constricting dresses or challenging skyscraper heels. Instead, they boast a potent blend of the casual-cool, covetable, high/low aesthetic that some influencers do so well.
Scroll below to see nine flawless casual night-out ideas for you to try for your next bar visit or dance-floor session. Then, shop any pieces you might need to re-create these looks.
1. MINI DRESS + BOMBER JACKET + BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: On its own, a strapless mini dress can feel fancy and, as such, out of place in some venues. However, throw on a cool bomber jacket and some ballet flats, and a mini bandeau dress will feel significantly more effortless.
Shop the Look:
A dark brown jacket is just as versatile as a classic black shade.
Ballet flats have become a staple in my summer wardrobe.
2. BLAZER + LEGGINGS + POINTED-TOE HEELS
Style Notes: Blazers have the power to elevate any look—even leggings, which will give your usual going-out looks some low-key flair. I'm particularly into stirrup styles worn with pointed-toe shoes.
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Pair these with everything from nice tops for evenings out, to chunky Breton stripe knits and Converse trainers for day.
The easiest way to make your outfits feel more more elevated.
3. SLIP DRESS + BLAZER
Style Notes: The beauty of slip dresses is that they can be dressed up or down with the simple switch of your shoes. For your next night out, try pairing yours with platform boots for an unexpected twist—the sort fashion types love to pull.
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4. LONG-SLEEVED TOP + BLACK JEANS + HEELS
Style Notes: Is there any piece that can't be made infinitely chicer by adding an elegant heel? This is exactly the sort of shoe you need when you want to effortlessly elevate your simple top and trousers look.
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Every outfit feels more polished with a sleek cream bag.
5. BLACK DRESS + SLINGBACK HEELS
Style Notes: You can never go wrong with a simple black dress for nights out. Add slingback heels and a chic shoulder bag to take this staple from day to night.
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Make this simple dress feel even more evening-appropriate with the addition of a chain belt.
6. STATEMENT TOP + JEANS
Style Notes: There's a reason why jeans-and-a-nice-top is a classic combination. Its a high-low combination that rises to the occasion, without feeling too try-hard. Go as bold as you want on top, then ground with classic denim.
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A great pair of jeans will serve your wardrobe all year round.
7. BOLD DRESS + CHUNKY JEWELLERY
Style Notes: A simple bodycon dress can be worn so many ways. Add a shirt for a relaxed look, or elevate for the evening with chunky jewellery and slicked back bun.
Shop the Look:
Is there any outfit a chain necklace can't make look cool?
The Jodie comes in so many beautiful colours, but we love the combination of neutral on bold pink.
8. BLAZER + JEANS
Style Notes: This is perhaps the most formidable wardrobe combination out there. Is there any night-out occasion or event you can't wear jeans and a blazer to? Make like TyLynn Nguyen and style yours with a silky camisole to give this effortlessly chic and chill look some after-dark appeal.
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9. TUBE TOP + BLACK TROUSERS + BRIGHT BAG
Style Notes: Almost everyone has a pair of black trousers lurking in the back of their wardrobes, perhaps going unused if you're yet to migrate back into office life. So why not take them on a spin for your next night out with the addition of a trending tube top, statement gold earrings, and a bright handbag? Easy.
Shop the Look:
If you're looking for a new pair of black trousers, make them wide-leg.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.
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