Jump to category:
- SHEER TOP
- TONAL DRESSING
- PARTY PANTS
- STRUCTURED BLAZER
- BLACK TOP + JEANS
- OXBLOOD EVERYTHING
Getting a “What are you wearing tonight?” text used to raise my blood pressure. Every Friday night was the same scene: I slammed my laptop shut at 5 p.m., and by 5:06, my entire closet was strewn across my bedroom. After college, I spent way too much time trying to figure out my personal style, only to keep reverting to the same baggy jeans and tiny tops that carried me through my early 20s. A few years later—with more wisdom—I finally cracked the code on what works for me in every aspect of my wardrobe, including the always-looming going-out looks.
These six combinations almost gamify getting ready for a night out. When the clock is ticking and you need to get out the door, you can always fall back on these six classics.
SHEER TOP
There’s something so sexy about a sheer top, especially one with movement that catches the light just right. I love how this poncho and beaded bag add a flirty element of surprise. Pair this top with your favorite black work pants and pumps and you’re golden.
Buci Ibis Poncho in Black
Araks Gita Underwire Bra in Black
Rebecca Taylor Stevie Pant in Black
Giarite Prismelle in Black
Schutz Lexi Sling Patent Pump in Black Patent
TONAL DRESSING
Tonal dressing is my cheat code when I’m in a rush but still want to look put-together. These Zara sequin shorts are absurdly good for the price, and the mix of textures—from the cozy cashmere to the structured croc boots—makes it anything but boring. A tonal look like this always feels curated, even if you threw it on in five minutes.
Zara Contrast Waist Sequin Shorts
Reformation Cove Cashmere Oversized Crew in Brown
Staud Brown Mini Ronnie Bag
Larroude Alexis Flat Boot in Brown Croc Leather
Calzedonia Invisible 15 Denier Make Up Effect Tights in Mocha
PARTY PANTS
If you want to stand out without trying too hard, lace pants are the move. I own a pair almost identical to these trousers, and trust me. You can’t go one second without a compliment. I keep the top simple—a soft black sweater ensures the focus is on the pants, but playful touches like velvet pumps add to the overall fun of the outfit.
Eliou Rafa Pant in Black
Jenni Kayne Cashmere Amelia Crewneck Sweater in Black
Leset Kelly Slim Fit Tee in White
Larroude Ari Pump in Black Velvet
Tory Burch Small Pierced Leather Hobo Bag in Black
STRUCTURED BLAZER
Fashion icons like Hailey Bieber and Morgan Stewart are consistently photographed wearing oversize blazers over barely-there skirts and dresses—and for good reason. The combination is perfectly flirty and elevated. Bonus points to Stewart for pairing hers back to high boots for some added warmth.
Aligne Daphne Long Waisted Blazer in Black
Reformation Dale Dress in Black
Partlow Selena Calfskin Tall Western Boots
Dorsey Maxwell Earrings in Moissanite
Commando Premier Sheer Tights in Oxblood
BLACK TOP + JEANS
I never claimed that these pairings would be groundbreaking, but sometimes, the simplest outfits are the ones that just work. A black top and jeans are one of those pairings that never fails. I love how a little structure in a jacket can take the whole look from casual to sharp in an instant. It’s the combo I reach for over and over.
Helsa The Peplum Leather Moto Jacket
Intimissimi Boat Neck Modal Cashmere Ultralight Top
Liffner Pillow Pouch Micro in Black Eel
Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist Jeans in Range
Bared Footwear Strix Boxed Leather Heeled Boots in Black
OXBLOOD EVERYTHING
Oxblood has officially taken over my wardrobe, and it pairs magically with dark denim. The colors just do something to my brain. You are guaranteed to be that girl while wearing this outfit combo.
The Frankie Shop Arbor Crackled Faux Leather Jacket in Burgundy
Pointe Milou Le Pony Mini in Wine
Rabanne Silver Iconic 1969 Nano Bag
Paris Texas Nina Slingback Heels in Pinot Noi
Veronica Beard Macaroon Smoky Quartz Earring