The Perfect "Going Out" Outfit

By Emerson Driscoll

Edited by Taylor Morgan

DALYN NGUYEN / @dalynnguyen on Pinterest

Every single year, when we come back to college, we rush to buy all the new trending pieces–whether its the jeans all of your friends have, the cheap tops you throw on last minute because they are flattering or the shoes with fun details and straps that came out recently, curating the perfect “going out” outfit does not have to be difficult. It all comes down to the base, the statement piece (optional), quality and accessories. 

To start, you want to have a good base, meaning a foundation that you can go off of and add to easily. The perfect base should include form-fitting basics in whichever style you choose. My go-to is usually a basic bodysuit, or a boatneck or scoop-neck top. Any style works, depending on what you are comfortable with. Usually, keeping it simple is key. A statement top and basic jeans can also be very fun, especially a sparkly top or lacey detailed blouse.

The other part of the base are the pants you decide to go with. There are many different routes you can go here. You can either match the pants to the top. If the top is black, a cool black pair of jeans can be fun, or if you have two of the same color, finding a different-textured bottom, such as silk pants, can also be cool. If the top is high-neck, a micro short or skirt can balance the look as well. A basic white tee and your best-fitting jeans are also always in; quality pieces are important. Here, there is a leather pant paired with a black cowl neck top. 

THATS KINDA A VIBE / @thatskindaavibe on Pinterest

AMBER / @ambernayaer on Pinterest

Now, it's the fun part: accessories and statement pieces. Your statement piece can come into play in many different ways. A fun belt like this can be very interesting, and break up an outfit, especially if it’s monochromatic and you want to spice it up. Shoes are also a great piece to have fun with. Think an all-black outfit and red pointed slingback heels. You can have fun with it. If you want your actual outfit to stay pretty simple and you like the matching look, a good thick pair of statement hoops can be amazing, especially if your hair is pulled back. Bracelets, cuffs and rings are also great to add different textures, especially if you mix in different metals and materials.

Finally, a great jacket that stands out to you is an amazing statement piece. A jean jacket in any wash is always a hit. Veering away from the basic colors of a typical suede jacket and picking up something like a green bomber can immediately elevate a basic outfit. Thrifting a leather jacket can also be a great way to have fun with your outfit, as it’s a timeless piece, and you can find really unique versions, and different colors as well, a burgundy one being a cool option if you like that! Here is how the green bomber can be styled.

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A bag is also a great way to mix textures and add a pop of color that elevates simple pieces. Going for a bright color or a studded bag with a different shape to it are two fun things to add to an outfit. 

Quality is always over quantity, and your wardrobe can be transformed with just a few small details. And a basic outfit can always be a good outfit.