Master the Art of Adult Going-Out Outfits

Picture this: you’re standing in front of your closet, puzzled by your attempts to create an adult-appropriate going-out outfit. You’ve tried on tons of barely-there tank tops and thigh-high mini skirts, but you’ve realized the trendy pieces that once served you in your early twenties no longer satisfy your tastes—or your appetite for comfort. If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Having recently grown out of my college wardrobe, I’ve concluded that it’s time to invest in a rotation of late-night looks that embody a more polished aesthetic—without looking too prim and proper. The ultimate goal? To create a dress code that lends itself to upscale dinners and chic cocktail lounges. My ideal collection of going-out outfits also consists of items that strike a balance between comfort and style (i.e., LBDs that aren't too tight, heels that won’t cause me to trip, and pants that I can easily move around in).

Determined to master the art of dressing for a night out, I’ve turned to stylish street-style mavens for inspiration. Here, I've pinned down a range of easy-to-replicate outfit formulas—including soft coats paired with roomy bottoms for casual hangouts, sleek suit sets for reservations at the newest hotspot, and sultry-yet-sophisticated dresses for date night plans. Before you hit the town, here are some evening-friendly uniforms.

For a Classy Cocktail Bar

Suit sets aren’t just reserved for your work outfits. You can easily slip into a blazer and trousers for an evening at a swanky cocktail bar. Instead of wearing a button-down, as you would for the office, style your tailored outfit with a peekaboo lace top. Complete your look with kitten heels, a glossy handbag, and delicate gold jewelry.

For an Engagement Party

If your schedule is jam-packed with engagement parties, I’ve got just the right outfit formula for you. Try wearing a classy sweater paired alongside a floor-sweeping skirt. Lean into an extra dose of drama by topping things off with a plush faux fur coat.

For a Birthday

Whether you’re the birthday girl or you’re celebrating someone else’s special day, ring in the evening of festivities with a fun metallic mini skirt. Take the sparkly theme a step further with a touch of crystal jewelry and anchor your look with a cropped black coat and a neutral-toned top.

For a Night of Dancing

Planning to dance the night away? You’ll want to prioritize comfort. A sheer shirt and a pair of easygoing jeans (or leather pants) will allow you to freely jump around to the beat of your favorite song. Wear a pair of kitten-heeled boots in lieu of sky-high platforms to make it through the evening.

For a Date Night

A lot of pressure comes with choosing a date night look, but you really only need a simple dress to get the job done. Opt for an eye-catching color like fiery red to add a bit of intrigue to your look. If temperatures dip, throw a trench coat over your shoulders for extra warmth.

For a Casual Night Out

For a casual night—like spending an evening at a bowling alley or an arcade—sneakers are your best bet. Make a statement with one of the biggest sneaker trends of the year: Adidas Sambas. Round out the rest of your look with a boxy leather jacket, ‘70s-inspired flared pants, and a lustrous leather tote.

For Dinner With Friends

A fancy meal with your closest friends is the perfect excuse to get all dolled up. Since dinner could easily lead to an evening of cocktails or a visit to your favorite lounge, your outfit should be versatile enough to serve several purposes. Keep things classy and straightforward with a monochromatic uniform featuring a lengthy leather trench, a turtleneck, and a slip skirt.

For a Movie Night

Although you could easily pull on a pair of sweatpants and a hoodie for a night at the movies, why not switch things up with an outfit that feels more elevated? This double-leather getup will make you look effortlessly cool while you indulge in buttery popcorn and fountain soda.

For a Holiday Party

The holiday season is swiftly approaching, which means festive soirées are on the horizon. Get in the spirit with an emerald green mini dress and a matching fuzzy layer. Incorporate sparkly jewels to command even more attention.

For an Impromptu Get-Together

Sometimes, going out just means heading to a friend’s house for a fun game night or stopping by your local pub for a casual drink. Consider going the laid-back route for these moments with a leopard-print coat and a pair of baggy jeans. Not only will you look put-together, but you'll also be right on trend (both styles are swiftly rising in popularity this season).