Wondering what to wear for a night out? Want to make different outfits without buying new stuff? I get it, there are lots of parties and events, especially at certain times each year.
Looking classy is cool
Not all of these need super fancy outfits, at least for me. But looking a bit classy is cool.
So, what to wear for a night out? What are the best looks we can make from what we already own?
Think about simple get-togethers with coworkers or bigger work events. Also, times with friends, club buddies, or easygoing dinners with neighbors.
Back in the day, being a bit introverted, I used to get a bit anxious about certain events and about picking the “perfect” outfit.
Thankfully, over time – a mix of growing older and more experienced – I've learned to ditch those unnecessary worries.
Focus on what really counts
Now, I focus on having a good time and relaxing, on what truly counts.
It's all about being together, expressing feelings of belonging, friendship, and gratitude – especially for the folks who are there for us daily.
They support us, keep us company, show friendship, bring laughter, and often, teach us something valuable.
Naturally, this change in perspective has made me more laid-back about the whole “what should I wear” situation.
In the past, I would sometimes buy new clothes and accessories just for these events. But now, I've formed a good habit: I start by checking out what I already have in my wardrobe to create the perfect evening outfit.
Only after that, if needed, I think about buying something new.
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I have to confess, my selection of “party & fancy evening” clothes isn't as extensive as my daytime or casual evening choices.
Affordable Party Outfit Ideas: Top Picks
However, I've come to understand that over time, simple items can blend seamlessly with more evening-oriented pieces. This allows me to create delightful and quietly fashionable ensembles.
In brief, my aim is to put together top-notch evening outfits from my wardrobe, suitable for about 80-90 percent of these events.
That's why I've put together a few concepts here for crafting fantastic evening looks effortlessly:
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1 – Declutter what you already own
You might think you lack pieces that are just right for dinners, cocktail parties, and evening events.
But often, if you search carefully, you'll discover interesting clothes and accessories.
This year, I put together what I call a “going out capsule collection.” It helped me see what pieces I already have (and identify some gaps that I've started to fill).
Furthermore, even if you're unsure about what to wear from your wardrobe, you might have several basic items that can form a solid foundation for your looks.
These pieces may just need a little extra something, like:
A stylish pair of dark jeans, avoiding overly faded ones.
- Sleek black high-heeled ankle boots.
- The timeless white shirt, tailored to flatter you. The same shirt you'd wear at the office can, in the evening, transform into a chic piece. Just flip the collar, unbutton one extra, add translucent gemstone earrings or a statement pearl necklace beneath, roll up the sleeves slightly, and adorn your wrists with beautiful bracelets. This shirt becomes a versatile evening attire that pairs perfectly with various elements: jeans and heels, long pleated skirts, leather pants, skirts, and more.
- A snug black or white coat or blazer.
- Trendy faux fur jackets.
- The classic little black dress.
- A feminine blouse (very much in vogue this year). When combined with black pants or a skirt, along with a coat, it sheds its daytime vibe, adopting a modern and current appearance.
2 – Have at least a couple of “fashion uniforms” ready:
When I mention “uniform,” I'm referring to a fundamental blueprint for an outfit that can then be personalized according to preference. Here's what mine consists of:
- Jeans or Black Pants Ensemble:
- Little Black Dress Look:
- Begin with a comfortable little black dress.
- Choose high boots, over-the-knee boots, or heels.
- Layer with a blazer for added flair.
- Carry a small shoulder bag, crossbody bag, or an evening clutch to finish the ensemble.
3. When in doubt, go for an all-black look
No doubt, there are numerous benefits to this choice.
It exudes a certain allure under evening lighting, and it's effortless to accentuate it further with one or more of the following elements:
- Jewelry: Think about gold or fashionable jewelry. Chandelier earrings, for instance, can be a captivating choice.
- Chain Shoulder Strap Bags: Consider bags with chain shoulder straps. They add a stylish touch that can even rival jewelry.
- Colorful or Contrasting Detail: Introduce a small bag or a colored accessory as a standout detail. Gold, silver, or even a bold red can work wonders.
- Cold Weather Accessories: When it's chilly, a generous scarf or a faux fur collar can make a cozy yet chic addition.
Where To Buy Chic and Affordable Handbags:
4 – All-Black Is Chic, But…
Why not break from the norm and experiment with a “total something else”?
Personally, I'm head over heels for white. Over the years, my closet has practically turned into a collection of whites – from elegant silk tees that work for evenings to wonderfully warm cashmere coats.
And let me tell you, the impact is undeniable.
Imagine going to a theater or a cocktail party in white. Amidst the sea of black outfits, you'll be an absolute standout, drawing all eyes towards you!
Of course, there are plenty of other captivating “total looks” for the evening. Just the other night, I spotted a lady with stunning silver hair dressed entirely in shades of gray and silver. She looked absolutely gorgeous!
Colors like red (or the trendy burgundy) and regal blues also work wonders when you're wondering what to wear for a night out. The key is to choose a shade that complements your complexion.
5a – Play with different materials
I understand this might sound commonplace.
However, you'd be amazed at the incredible evening outfits you can conjure even with a slightly dark and subtly worn pair of jeans. Just contrast them with “elegant” materials, and your look transforms into a stunning evening ensemble.
Think about incorporating fabrics like velvet (making a comeback), lace (a dress I got last year has become a favorite), faux fur, silk (both printed and solid), and more.
These materials work wonders in elevating your outfit to a spectacular evening level.
5b – Play with materials, encore
To me, a million-dollar appearance involves a monochromatic ensemble enriched by diverse textures (point 3 also applies here).
Picture this: a textured blazer layered atop a smoother base, or a faux fur vest in harmony with the underlying piece.
Think about vibrant accents, sequins, glossy fabrics, sophisticated sheer elements, and combining textures with others that are more solid and rugged.
Some Of My Favorite Silk Pieces by Lilysilk:
Interestingly, these single-color, “textured” combinations always exude an aura of luxury, regardless of their actual cost.
They effortlessly radiate an upscale vibe, even if they were surprisingly budget-friendly.
6 – Shine with Sequins (or Bold Colors)
In my case, I find that subtle fabrics suit me better. For instance, I chose a sequined skirt instead of a top.
I've also got a vibrant red blouse that I wear occasionally, and it's remarkably versatile.
It goes great with black skinnies and high heels, or even as part of an all-white ensemble, paired with chandelier earrings in the same shade of red.
7 – Elevate Your Look with Chain-Strap Crossbody Bags
Their inherent elegance and evening charm indeed create a splendid contrast with a pair of jeans.
However, in my view, a lengthy gold or silver shoulder strap possesses the magic to elongate and streamline your silhouette. This effect is particularly striking when it accentuates the waist, especially if you're donning a slightly oversized coat.
These straps come in a variety of styles to fit any budget, from options at Zara to those from Yves Saint Laurent (YSL). Presently, my absolute favorite is:
By the way, these pieces perfect for your going out looks:
8 – Elevate with Accessories
Accessories hold the key to transforming an evening look. A few of my favorites are:
- Rhinestone Earrings: These capture and reflect artificial light, illuminating your face.
- Bags with Gold or Silver Hardware: They add a touch of sophistication.
- Jewel-Encrusted Sandals or Pumps: These elevate your footwear game.
- A Beautiful Necklace: If necklaces are your thing, they can work wonders.
- Metal Watch: It not only tells time but also enhances a delicate wrist.
- Hair and Makeup: Don't underestimate the power of a well-done hairdo and makeup, especially a stunning red lipstick. While I'm still working on it, I appreciate its transformative magic on others. The right shade can elevate an ordinary look to something exceptional.
9 – Embrace Newness and Make It Yours
It's perfectly fine to be a minimalist and maximize what's already beautiful in your closet. However, a bit of shopping is absolutely okay too!
I aim for pieces that can be mixed in various ways (ideally, 3 or 4). Like these:
This year, my choice was a white frill blouse. Worn open, it evolves into something distinct, fitting for a night out. In a more reserved style, it fits well for work.
But come evening, paired with black skinnies, dark denim, a black pencil skirt, or creamy white cigarette pants, with an extra button undone, it transforms into the perfect evening wear.
In short, pick a trendy piece that you adore and suits you. Invest in a garment that complements your body type, your colors, and your style. Use it as your canvas for crafting multiple outfits.
10 – Leverage the Power of Contrasts
Evening lights magnify color contrasts compared to daylight. Thus, certain color combos shine brighter at night, from timeless black and white to vibrant pairings like red and black, china blue and black, white and gold, white and silver, and more.
11 – Try Faux Fur Elegance
Experiment with a faux fur collar, a short or mid-thigh faux fur jacket, or a coat with a fur collar.
They effortlessly add an elegant touch when layered over anything, even a well-worn pair of jeans. Slip on a pair of heels, and you radiate sophistication while staying snug.
Affordable Party Outfit Ideas: Top Picks
What about your side? What outfits do you favor for the evening?
SHOP MY OUTFITS!
Dive into my “Shop My Outfits” blog page for curated fashion inspiration! For exclusive content and product reviews, download the LTK app and follow me on LTK!
I wanted to read the article but the social buttons on the left side of the page covered the first words of every line of text. It’s super annoying. Your site is not the only one that has this problem. I don’t understand how people don’t check their websites for the bare minimum of accessibility. (The only way to fix the issue, for me, is to zoom out on the page.)
Sorry for that and thank you for letting me know, I will check the problem. Does this happen on mobile or on your desktop?