Let's make this clear: "going-out" outfits are not “cocktail-party attire." As anyone who's ever been to a cocktail party can tell you, the opportunities that present themselves when you’re sipping a glass of prosecco in a room with chest-high circular tables are not the same as what you can expect to happen on the epic Friday nights you look forward to all week. Going-out outfits need to be alluring and fun, but also totally reasonable in case you find yourself possessed by the God of Dance after your third well drink. They need to make you feel confident and interesting, and be durable enough to toss in the washing machine the next morning. Going-out outfits are maybe the hardest to put together, but the most rewarding when you get things right.
The biggest pitfall, of course, is showing up to a bar and finding that everyone else is wearing a variation of your outfit. If you don't want to be that girl (or all those girls), it's helpful to figure out the common thread between those rare creatures that really stick out in a room. They're showing a creative sliver of skin, there's still an element of done-upness, but they're wearing clothes that they could feasibly have already been wearing while the sun was still out. It's the "daytime" approach to nighttime, and it's the key to looking effortlessly amazing. Check out the images ahead to see how it's done.
Wear your off-the-shoulder top with a fancy updo, a bright lipstick, and a fun pair of pants. Even though these wide-legged trousers are denim, they're dramatic enough for p.m. fun.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
This sort of pretty dress is a secret weapon during the summer. It's the 24-hour dress and works for every occasion. Glam up your makeup to really make it a going-out look and swap out your sneakers for heels.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
Culottes and a leather belt can make a plunging neckline feel less intimidating.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
A mini sundress works for after hours with a great lipstick and platform heels.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
Don't be afraid of layering at night, too. A party top under a sundress can feel unexpectedly cool.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.
A long-sleeved shirt? A denim skirt? Yes, if you're pairing with killer heels (and your shirt features a healthy crop). Look closely at the chain over her shoulder, too — a dazzling piece of hardware (whether yours is in the form of a suspender strap or a pendant necklace) can do a lot to your look.
Photographed by Christian Vierig.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?