As fashion editors, we regularly experiment with a variety of trends to uncover those key looks that work for our personal styles. As a result, our wardrobes are always evolving—including the “going-out” section in our closets. On that topic, we recently all drummed up a discussion during what would, in previous years, be considered the holiday party season, about the after-hours pieces we rely on to create effortless, fun, and chic party looks. The convo also shed light on some of the night-out pieces we don’t wear as much anymore due to both the pandemic and our new at-home lifestyles.
Naturally, we wanted to share our insights with you in case your socially distant night-out (or date-night in) offering could use a refresh. So with all that in mind, keep scrolling to check out the six evening staples we’re not wearing as much at the moment, along with the items we’re opting for instead. Plus, shop each staple to perhaps amp up your night-out style (once that’s a thing again). But remember: At the end of the day, you should always wear whatever you feel the most comfortable in—regardless of what’s “in” or “out.”
“Cold-shoulder tops are definitely a style I would pass on. What I wear instead for a night out? Structured tops with puffy sleeves and a square neckline like this one.”—Kristen Nichols, managing editor
“Super-high heels don’t make for a fun night out, and I retired mine years ago because of it. These days, I’ll still wear heels, but I stick to walkable ones that have a festive element (like this embellished Wandler pair).”—Allyson Payer, senior fashion editor
“While a night out used to mean statement tops, flashy heels, and all things out-there, in recent years I’ve been taking a more laid-back approach and instead opting for simpler pieces such as blazers, jeans, and strappy sandals.”—Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour, senior market editor
“There was a time when body-con skirts unquestionably held a place in my going-out repertoire, but these days, I much prefer a more comfortable and modern silhouette. Long leather Bermuda shorts are my jam right now.”—Judith Jones, market editor
“There was a moment when off-the-shoulder tops were the first thing I reached for while getting ready for a night out, but the trend has definitely fizzled, and I’ve donated all of mine. Instead, I’m reaching for corset-inspired tops for a more timeless going-out look. Conveniently, they’re also an emerging trend.”—Anna LaPlaca, associate editor
“I remember my going-out dresses from college all had metallic, glittery details—because how can one possibly leave the house after dark without some kind of shimmer? Now that I’m older and wiser, I know that there are a lot of less-reflective options. I stand by leather for nights out, and I don’t even bother with formfitting silhouettes because it’s not what I feel comfortable in.”—Erin Fitzpatrick, senior news editor
