I'm Lazy But Want to Look Good—These 6 Simple Party Outfits Are Perfect
In my head, my party-season look is a cross between Liberace, Celine Dion and Diana Ross—iconic, entertainer, full-on extra ensembles that leave everyone else in the shade. In reality, that kind of vibe doesn't work for the Christmas do in the canteen or down the pub with mates, so the outfits need to be dialled down accordingly. Yes, there will still be sparkle, but it might come in the slightly more understated form of a sequined skirt with a grey cashmere knit or a pair of decorative earrings set against a simple, minimalistic bustier and jeans combination. As much as I dream of swooping in wearing a feather cape and bejewelled suit with sky-high heels, the truth is you'll probably find me in a classic party dress with tights, modestly mid-height heels and a red lip (that soon turns to red-wine lips).
I've noticed that this desire for, and reliance upon, casual party outfits is omnipresent on social media. Yes, you have the people for whom every day is a fashion circus, but you also have those who have a schedule chock-full of different events and need to get dressed easily, quickly and without 50,000 different looks at their disposal. In the past week, I've seen a lot less gown action (bar the red carpet of the Fashion Awards) and more subdued, chic takes on after-dark dressing, like a tailored blazer and glimmering trousers, plenty of fancy skirt-and-knit pairings and a few solid "nice top and jeans" ideas that even I—a denim-phobe—could get on board with. So keep scrolling for the low-key party looks I'll be trying for my next night out.
1. JEANS + A NICE TOP
Style Notes: A crystal mesh top and baggy jeans have just been given the Rosie Huntington-Whiteley seal of approval.
Style Notes: The theme for loose-fitting jeans continues with this sequin top and wide-leg denim combination.
Style Notes: Alternatively, you could opt in for double denim with a great pair of earrings.
Shop Jeans and Nice Tops:
These Gucci slingbacks are the party.
2. SOMETHING SPARKLY + SOMETHING CASUAL
Style Notes: If it ain't broke, don't fix it! A grey jumper and party skirt always work, no matter the year or trends.
Style Notes: Taking things up a notch is Danielle in sparkly trousers and an oversized blazer. Just wow.
Style Notes: And combining the two—a blazer and a sparkly skirt—isn't a bad idea either!
Shop a sparkly look:
A smart blazer that's cosy enough to wear out for a night.
3. BLACK SKIRT + PARTY PIECES
Style Notes: An all-black ensemble and glittery boots? Count us in! These sparkly knee-highs have captured my heart.
Style Notes: Everything about this—from the patent skirt and loose jumper to the spindly heels and shoulder bag—screams yes.
Style Notes: Combining a tutu with knitwear and chunky ankle boots is an inspired move.
Shop a black-skirt look:
I can confirm these look just as good on IRL as they do on a screen, if not better!
4. THROW-ON SUIT
Style Notes: A posh suit might look like a lot of effort, but it's actually one of the easiest looks you can pull together for a night out.
Style Notes: Add a corsage, and you get extra points for being very 2023.
Style Notes: Look out for bold-coloured tailoring, as it requires little to no styling to look impactful.
Shop a party-suit outfit:
5. JUMPSUIT + COMFORTABLE SHOES
Style Notes: A jumpsuit look is one of the easiest to put together, especially if you opt for monochrome styling.
Style Notes: Charlotte's silky one-piece wonder is given a down-to-earth spin with chunky boots.
Style Notes: This strapless black iteration is the epitome of elegance. Sometimes simplicity is best.
Shop a jumpsuit outfit:
6. LBD + FLATS
Style Notes: A refined LBD styled with black tights and round-toe black flats creates a timeless and effortlessly chic ensemble.
Style Notes: One way to stay comfy all night long, wear a tailored LBD with leopard-print pointed flats—adding a touch of bold sophistication to this sleek party look.
Style Notes: The mesh details of this LBD bring a romantic touch, perfectly complemented by simple, delicate flats for an elegant finish.
Shop LBD outfit:
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Hannah Almassi is the Editor in Chief of Who What Wear UK. Hannah has been part of the the Who What Wear brand since 2015, when she was headhunted to launch the UK sister site and social channels, implement a localised content strategy and build out the editorial team. She joined following a seven-year tenure at Grazia magazine, where she led front-of-book news, fashion features and shopping specials as fashion news and features editor. With experience in both print and digital across fashion and beauty, Hannah has over 16 years in the field as a journalist, editor, content strategist and brand consultant. Hannah has interviewed industry heavyweights such as designers including Marc Jacobs and Jonathan Anderson through to arbiters of taste including Katie Grand and Anna Dello Russo. A skilled moderator and lecturer specialising in the shift to digital media and e-commerce, Hannah’s opinion and work has been sought by the likes of CNBC, BBC, The Sunday Times Style, The Times, The Telegraph and MatchesFashion.com, among many others. Hannah is often called upon for her take on trends, becoming known as a person with their finger of the pulse of what’s happening in the fashion space for stylish Brits. Hannah currently resides in Eastbourne with her photographer husband, incredibly busy son and highly Instagrammable cat.
- Humaa HussainJunior Branded Content Editor
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