What To Wear On a Night Out

There’s no sugarcoating it: evening wear can be particularly tricky to navigate, especially as a 40+ woman whose social calendar can look quite different from that of a 20-year-old.

I don’t need a clubbing outfit or anything too formal at this stage of life, but I do need reliable pieces that make a dinner date, work function, school fundraiser, birthday party, cocktail event or holiday celebration feel worthy of frocking up for.

There’s a lot on offer this season that makes this particular category of dressing feel pretty seamless right now, from fringe detailing and embellished tops and dresses to flattering necklines and every length of shorts, pants and skirts imaginable. It’s a great time to start compiling outfits for the events you have coming up later in the year.

A few reminders if you do have somewhere special to dress for…

• Bags and shoes don’t need to match. In fact, other than with all-black or neutral bags and shoes, having accessories that are too matchy-matchy can sometimes work against you. Wearing accessories in the same tone is perfectly fine and often much easier to style.

• Speaking of accessories, they really do make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a new pair of earrings or a great necklace if you simply want to update what’s already hanging in your wardrobe.

• Texture is everything right now. From feathers and fringing to tulle and lace, there are plenty of ways to add interest. Try incorporating a little embellishment if you want your outfit to feel a bit more special or have a point of difference this season.

And yes, jeans and a going-out top are still very much relevant. If denim is still your thing over a skirt or pants, you do you!

Let’s go.