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.
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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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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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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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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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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.
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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.
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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 fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews 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 search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.
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