I'm a Fashion Editor With Classic Taste—Here's How I Dress Up My Favourite Jeans for a Night Out

It's a tale as old as time—you have a million and one events in your calendar and not a thing to wear. Dresses feel too dressy, and yet, you still want to feel put-together and polished. Perhaps it's a trip to the ballet, last-minute bookings at the newest buzzy restaurant with your friends, to anniversary drinks with your partner or long-awaited gatherings with extended family, the list of occasions is as long as your arm. For each of these affairs, you will, of course, need to turn out a look.

I'm here to tell you that you don't need to overthink matters, and that you may already have some fabulous building blocks in your wardrobe that, with an artful bit of tweaking and subtle updates, you can achieve a whole roster of brand-new and elegant looks for every evening event in your stacked diary. One of those key pieces is, yes, you guessed it, the ever-faithful denim jeans.

You may scoff and believe that jeans are far too casual for dinners, drinks and events. But, as a seasoned fashion editor, I think I can change your mind. 'Jeans and a nice top' often gets a bad rep—misread as a lazy shortcut for getting dressed and running out the door. However, I firmly believe that it's a combination and hack that every discerning tastemaker, including celebs and Instagram's best-dressed, has mastered like a fine art. Whether it's using chic knitwear, a statement jacket or blazer, sparkly pieces and a sleek pair of heels or loafers, there are an infinite number of ways to elevate your jeans.

I have curated 7 classic and classy ideas to give your blue jeans the after-dark upgrade, all of which feel timeless, chic and grown-up, for whatever festivities might come your way. Scroll on for my curated edit and shopping ideas to get you in the mood.

7 Evening Outfits with Jeans:

1. Turtleneck + Kitten Heels + Sparkly Bag

Style Notes: Sometimes, the simpler the look, the better. A black turtleneck jumper, in a fine merino blend, is a wardrobe workhorse, and so easy to dress up for dinner. Take cues from Sylvie Mus and pair yours with slim-fit, dark-wash jeans, plus chic pointed kitten heels and a vintage-inspired sparkly bag for your after-dark essentials. A pretty drop earring will give visual interest up top. This look is a great option for running from your desk job to cocktails with friends.

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2. Draped Top + Statement Belt + Puzzle Bag

Style Notes: To level up your white t-shirt game, opt for a pretty draped top. The ruching and off-the-shoulder look will take an otherwise simple look up a notch, particularly for evenings out on the town. A western belt, loafers and a classic Loewe Puzzle bag punctuate this pared-back outfit to give it outfit style and character. You will be comfortable all night, but feeling put-together.

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3. Satin Blazer + Sparkly Top + Hoop Earrings

Style Notes: If you are looking to shimmer and shine all night through, a sparkly top will be your best friend. All-over crystals or sequins will give your ensemble maximum 00s appeal, and look so good against classic blue denim. Drape a satin blazer over your shoulders to give coverage when you need it, but honestly, this fit should let that OTT top do the talking.

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4. Leopard Jacket + White T-Shirt + Beaded Bag

Style Notes: We are fully back in the era of leopard print, and I've been spotting it appearing on coats, jackets and even hats. For the evening, a leopard-print jacket is a smart move to not only stay warm but timelessly stylish, too. Pinch Lucy Williams' look, and pair yours with a simple white tee, classic Levi's jeans, red socks, loafers and a beaded bag for a look that is head-to-toe festive. Meow!

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5. White Oxford Shirt + Pointed Boots + Boxy Bag

Style Notes: Timeless style is easy to achieve with blue jeans and a fresh, white Oxford shirt. Not only is this outfit combo great for daytime, but it works for after-work drinks, casual gatherings with friends and up-market dinners too. Add heavy black leather accessories, such as a pair of pointed ankle boots and a statement bag, to add depth and dimension to your nighttime looks. Fresh, smart but extremely chic, no?

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6. Leather Jacket + Cami Top + Mini Bag

Style Notes: Elite dressers have been obsessing over lace-trimmed cami tops for some time now, and a perfect way to toughen them up for evening is to team them with a funnel-neck leather jacket and wide-leg blue jeans. The simple colour mix of black, blue and off-white will never date. The addition of the mini bag gives a '90s edge, which I adore. I'm pinching this look for date nights.

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7. White Blazer + Loafers + Luxury Handbag

Style Notes: Elsa Hosk just knows how to get dressed. Her denim look is super wearable but luxe, and admittedly, so easy to emulate. Wearing a soft, unstructed boucle jacket (worn as a top), plus ruched loafers and a Chanel 25 bag (a girl come dream, right?) feels easy, soft but smart for evening. Got dinner bookings with family, or cocktail plans with your nearest and dearest? Pop this on your moodboard, stat.

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