We all know the feeling: It’s Friday evening, you’ve just tied up a taxing week of work, and your group chat is hopping with excitement for what the night has in store. Finally, you and your friends can unwind and debrief over tipples without worrying about an early start. Sounds great, right? There’s just one problem; the effort required to put together an outfit feels impossible to muster up.
I don’t know about you, but my outfit-building ability definitely has a limit. If I’m exhausted or uninspired, I simply don’t have it in me to create an interesting look—let alone an on-point going-out look. This is especially true late on a Friday, so more often than not, I err on the side of casual. Simple, comfortable, with a few dressy details thrown into the mix so I don’t feel out of place in whichever bar or beer garden I’m due at.
Unsurprisingly, given how vital they are in my regular wardrobe, I’ve found that jeans form the foundation of most of my last-minute evening ensembles. Worn-in denim brings a low-key feel to every outfit, so it’s perfect for times when you don’t want to try too hard (or look like you’ve tried too hard). Don’t just take my word for it—scroll on to see seven going-out outfits with jeans, then shop the pieces you’ll need to recreate them.
Style Notes: Jeans and a tee might feel too casual for a night out, but choose a style sans straps and you’re instantly evening-ready. Especially if you add some elegant slingbacks.
Simple but effective.
Transition these flattering jeans from day to night.
Also available in a suede finish.
Style Notes: In need of a quick transition from desk-to-drinks? A white shirt and court shoes will work for both environments; just shrug off your blazer and add some sleek accessories.
You’ll hang onto this staple for years to come.
Mango is always my first port-of-call when I’m seeking affordable denim.
A fresh take on a timeless shoe.
Style Notes: Silk and satin in any form instantly make an outfit feel dressier. Opt for a beautifully draped top to team with a figure-hugging pair of high-waist jeans.
Such a fattering neckline.
Available in sizes 4-22.
I’d be lost without my gold hoops—I love the subtle engraving on this pair.
Style Notes: Instead of reaching for your go-to blue jeans, zhuzh up your look with rhinestone embellished denim and get ready to shine when the light hits you (literally).
This top is something special.
Honestly, I’d wear these in the daytime too.
Style Notes: Leather print and leather are two key ingredients for a swish after-dark look, and denim just so happens to work faultlessly with both.
A nice change-up from the classic black biker.
Indigo denim is an appropriate choice for nighttime.
In block heels this comfortable, you can dance all night long.
Style Notes: Let’s face it, once the sun sets in the UK, it’s rarely warm enough to go outside jacket-free. A moto style is a trendy and practical option that won’t take away from the outfit underneath.
This monochrome iteration will go with everything.
If you haven’t yet tried Agolde denim, you’ve been missing out big time.
Find me a cooler pair of boots on the high street. I’ll wait.
Style Notes: Sometimes I need a push to step outside my monochrome comfort zone, and this outfit is just that. Brightly-coloured heels are officially the next shoe on my wish list…
Now that it’s spring, this is exactly the kind of colour I’ll be gravitating towards.
A wearable way to tap into the cargo trend.
These would also look great with ‘clashing’ orange shades.
Style Notes: Swap your chunky turtleneck knitwear for a lightweight version in an elevated fabric—think lace, organza and metallic materials.
This feels very ’60s.
There’s no beating mid-blue jeans.
Who said you have to wear heels on a night out?
Up Next: You Should Never Get Rid of These Classic Jeans—We’ve Got Proof
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
