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.
1. Strapless Top + Wide-Leg Jeans + Slingbacks
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.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Simple but effective.
Transition these flattering jeans from day to night.
Also available in a suede finish.
2. White Shirt + Straight-Leg Jeans + Court Shoes
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.
SHOP THE LOOK:
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.
3. Silk Top + High+Waisted Jeans
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.
SHOP THE LOOK:
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.
4. Strappy Top + Embellished Jeans
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).
SHOP THE LOOK:
This top is something special.
Honestly, I'd wear these in the daytime too.
5. Biker Jacket + Flared Jeans + Animal-Print Boots
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.
SHOP THE LOOK:
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.
6. Moto Jacket + Distressed Jeans + Pointed Boots
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.
SHOP THE LOOK:
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.
7. Long-Sleeve Top + Cargo Jeans + Colour-Pop Heels
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...
SHOP THE LOOK:
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.
8. Turtleneck Blouse + Loose Jeans + Pointed Flats
Style Notes: Swap your chunky turtleneck knitwear for a lightweight version in an elevated fabric—think lace, organza and metallic materials.
SHOP THE LOOK:
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.
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