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. KNITTED TOP + SPARKLY SKIRT + BOOTS

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Style Notes: On their own, miniskirts can feel fancy and, as such, out of place in some venues. However, throw on a knitted top and boots, and a miniskirt—even a sparkly one—will feel significantly more effortless.

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2. BLAZER + LEGGINGS + POINTED-TOE HEELS

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

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

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(Image credit: @oliviamarcus)

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. LEATHER BIKER + CHECKED TROUSERS

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(Image credit: @the_oluwaseun)

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 right now 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. 

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5. SHIRT DRESS + STRAPPY SANDALS

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(Image credit: @chloepierreldn)

Style Notes: You probably didn't think a shirt dress would work for going out, but the devil's in the details. Add strappy heels and a chic shoulder bag to take your workwear favourite from day to night. 

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6. STATEMENT TOP + JEANS

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(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

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

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

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

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

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

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(Image credit: @xo.shru)

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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Next Up: Move Over, Trousers—I’m Wearing These 4 Elegant Skirt Outfits to Work Instead

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. 

Opening Image: @nlmarilyn

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over twelve years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content 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, works closely with influencer talent on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media. Previously, Maxine appeared on TV 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, she was offered a position on the Look magazine fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. She went on to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine works remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh.