Hi fashion team,
I’m in a complete rut. All I wear on evenings out is the classic jeans and a nice top combo. I’d like to mix it up, but I don’t want to be stuck with clothes I’ll only wear once or twice, which I’ll either get bored of quickly or will struggle to pair with anything else in my wardrobe. I’ve got lots of nice blouses, tops and tees for going out, what would you suggest I should wear with them to break away from my jeans go-to?
Emma from Glasgow
Who hasn’t had that girls’ Whatsapp group message asking “what are we all wearing tonight?” and the immediate answer “jeans and a nice top”?
It’s got me thinking, why do we love the classic combination so much?
The jeans and a nice top pairing hits that sweet spot between smart casual. Depending on how dressed up you’d like to be, you can mix in trainers or heels, smart denim or relaxed denim, simple tops or statement shirts.
I also think the combination gives you a sense of security. Not only in numbers (with everybody wearing similar outfits), but in terms of comfort. Personally, I don’t want to be traipsing across a city on public transport in a flimsy mini dress. Especially when the weather gets colder. I do, however, want to feel dressy. So smart jeans are an immediate solution.
Thankfully, in answer to your question, there are other outfit combinations that will offer this same level of comfort, without sacrificing style. They’ll also look good all day long if you decide to wear them day to night. We’ve got to keep in mind that jeans are unlikely to crease and crumple, so these alternatives need to stay looking polished for just as long.
Crucially, these items will also be useful for your wardrobe in other ways, ready to be paired with your favourite elevated knits on weekends or smarter shirts for everyday workwear options.
Let’s start with some of our favourite going out tops
One of the best things about buying classic and versatile separates is that you can create lots of different pairings out of your clothes, so you don’t feel stuck wearing the same outfits all the time.
To get us started, here are some of my favourite tops for the season ahead.
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Denim skirts
My first alternative to jeans is still within the denim family: the denim skirt. I spotted someone on the streets wearing one with a crisp shirt and ever since I’ve been eager to buy one for myself.
Like wearing jeans, you have the support of rigid denim, especially in a midi length. They’re perfect for transitioning from summer to autumn too on those days when you have no idea which way the weather will turn.
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Silky skirts
For autumn, I love the look of silky skirts as alternatives to jeans. Stick to a neutral colour skirt and it will work with lots of different options on top, from tees to knits.
If you’re bold enough to show some skin, pair with a loosely buttoned up cardigan or crop top. Or, for wearing day to night, pair with your favourite tee and throw on a blazer over the top.
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Silky trousers
Silky trousers are surely an even comfier going-out option than jeans, and will look just as sleek with the tops you already have ready in your wardrobe.
Choose darker shades for autumn. Not only will any creases be less obvious, but they’ll also strike the perfect smart casual balance for outfits when you’re going out to dinner and drinks after. Just pair with some party shoes and a statement going out top and you’ll be ready for the party season ahead.
Don’t miss out on Zara’s silk dupe of Reformation’s Willa trousers.
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Leather skirts
A great alternative to denim in colder months is leather, so it’s never a surprise when it shows up across the autumn/winter catwalks. Mini skirts aren’t going anywhere either, so if you were a fan this summer, update yours to a leather alternative.
Simply pair with tights and a great pair of boots when it gets colder and you’ll be able to bring out this jeans alternative again and again.
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Leather trousers
Just like jeans, there’s no chance you’ll only wear a pair of leather trousers once. They’ll quickly become a smart, but fun, go-to for nights out that you can dress up with sequins, sheer tops and statement shirts, or dress down with tank tops and tees. Look to A&F for a relaxed pair, which are also available in a curve style.
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