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. Still, after months of having little to look forward to on the weekend other than a takeaway and a box set, now that our favourite after-dark haunts have opened once again, we’re finding that we don’t have the energy to dress up in fancy clothes like we used to. Cue the casual going-out outfits.
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 eight 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.
Style Notes: On their own, minidresses can feel fancy and, as such, out of place in some venues. However, throw an on-trend oversized shirt, and a minidress will feel significantly more effortless.
This orange shirt will wear just as well with jeans.
The perfect little black dress.
Don’t you think these look designer?
Style Notes: Ordinarily, chinos aren’t considered going-out staples, but paired with a cropped shirt and an elegant top-handle bag, they instantly look the part.
A cool staple you might not already own.
Pair these trousers 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 summery is with a yellow handbag.
Style Notes: Cardigans are seldom seen after dark unless you’re heading to a traditional local for a pint by the fire. However, this season’s micro-cardigan trend loans itself perfectly to the casual night-out outfit aesthetic we’re trying to achieve. Wear it with wide-leg trousers to tick off another major trend.
This cardigan keeps selling out.
M&S always has great trouser options.
I’ve had my eye on these lace-up heels for so long.
Style Notes: The beauty of satin 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 chunky slider sandals for an unexpected twist—the sort fashion types love to pull.
A shade of green that works all year round.
If you’re a minimalist, simple jewellery is a must for any going-out outfit.
These are high up on my wish list.
Style Notes: Is there any piece that can’t be made infinitely cooler by adding a leather jacket? This is exactly the sort of cover-up you need as we head into autumn, when it’s too cold to head off on a night out without something to keep the chill at bay. Wear it with trending tartan trousers, and you’ll look the stylish part wherever you’re going.
A forever piece.
These come in so many colour iterations; simply pick your favourite.
Every outfit feels more polished with a top-handle bag.
Style Notes: Miniskirts have made a big comeback this year. Those in the know are wearing theirs with oversized shirts and loose-fitting tops to counteract their sultry vibe. Just add a jazzy handbag, and you’ve got the art of the casual night-out outfit down.
All of our editors own this classic shirt.
The bag brand to know this year.
A welcome change from more commonplace leopard prints.
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.
Try wearing this with a bra top underneath.
These M&S jeans have the perfect amount of stretch.
Reformation’s latest shoe drop is very impressive indeed.
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.
A cool update on timeless gold hoops.
This is shaped to give a beautiful silhouette.
If you’re looking for a new pair of black trousers, make them wide-leg.
