What To Wear to a Party: Seven Stylish Outfits

There’s nothing quite as exciting as getting ready for a fun celebration. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or a birthday or just want an excuse to get together, a party is a lovely way to gather with friends and get dressed to the nines. 

Every party is unique, which means the ensemble you wear there is also going to be unique. There’s no single “perfect outfit” for a party, but rather an essentially endless amount of options. That’s why I’ve chosen to put together my top seven stylish outfits to wear to a party.

Party Outfit Must-Haves

Like every situation, there are always essentials that the occasion calls for. Party essentials will vary from person to person, but I want to talk about my personal party must-haves. 

A Bag for Every Occasion

Whenever I head out to a party or a get-together, I’ve always got to have a bag for the occasion. Where I’m going and what I’m going to be doing totally affect what bag I grab as I get ready. 

If I’m headed to a formal affair, like a gala or a nice dinner, I bring a small yet elegant bag with me to carry my essentials. This will ensure I can keep my wallet, keys, phone, and other essentials like lipstick on me in a fashionable way. 

For a beach party or one that will involve activity, I carry a larger tote with me. I can keep my essentials in the bag along with other items the occasion may call for, such as sunglasses, a sunhat for handy dandy sun protection, or a beach blanket.

When I’m headed out to a party on the town, such as hitting up some nightclubs or hanging out at a cocktail bar, I carry a flexible bag with me. Something that straps on securely so that in the mellow lighting, I don’t have to worry about losing it. For example, a crossbody bag works perfectly to accomplish this!

A Jacket “Just in Case”

When headed to a party, I always like to keep a stylish jacket on me. Not only will a jacket improve my head-to-toe ensemble, but it will also keep me warm and cozy, especially as those cold chilly months approach. 

I adore a classic leather moto jacket. Sleek and chic, this style of jacket always leaves me looking fresh and cool. It’s a classic you can never go wrong with.

I also like to wear a denim jacket to add a vintage flair to any look. It’s an iconic way to keep a look casual yet also on trend.

My favorite outerwear for a casual party, for example, at a lake house or a dear friend’s home, is elegant sweaters. They keep me warm and comfortable while also retaining refined air.

Iconic Footwear

Footwear is so important to consider when I head out to a party. I want my shoes to match my look and the level of grace the occasion requires, but I don’t want to sacrifice my comfort at the same time. Finding a solid pair of refined yet comfortable shoes is key.

If I’m headed out to a formal event, I always like to wear heels. Typically formal events don’t require a lot of walking, so I know I’ll remain comfortable while also looking super stylish.

For parties that might require more movement, such as a party I host in my home or a family get-together, I like to opt for flat-footed shoes, such as a pair of shimmery sandals or comfortable boots in the winter months.

7 Outfit Ideas for a Party

Mini Dress with Moto Boots

One of my favorite looks for a party out in the town brings back the nostalgia for the grunge era of the 90s. Pairing a mini party dress with some funky and chunky Moro boots is always a good look. I love this look when I go out for more casual cocktails with my friends.

My go-to way to style this look is with a silk mini dress. The elegance of the silk material in contrast with the punk flair of the moto boots is a beautiful juxtaposition. Complete the look with an oversized vintage denim jacket.

Of course, there’s nothing more classy than the OG little black dress — LBD. This is the ultimate cocktail dress to wear to a formal dinner party or a birthday party out on the town. Want to take it from work party to after-work party? Add in details like sequins or a dramatic neckline!

A Matching Set

Matching sets are such an easy way to look graceful while also not having to put a lot of effort into styling an outfit. They come paired, so you’re guaranteed to have a flawless look tied together seamlessly. Opt for a pantsuit for a classy affair or a 1950s playsuit for a themed party — the matching set can do everything. 

When wearing a solid matching set, I like to add an accessory, like a belt, some heels, or a statement necklace, that brings a pop of color into the look. When wearing a patterned matching set, I accent a slight color with other accessories throughout the look, such as a jacket or a bag. 

Elegant Jumpsuits for the Win

Jumpsuits are similar to matching sets in that they’re an elegant yet effortless way to style your look. Much like dresses, they serve as a beautiful canvas on you to paint the details of your outfit. I usually style my jumpsuits with small minimalistic details in the form of jewelry like hoop earrings.

A Romper: A Mini Dress Material Without the Hassle

Rompers can serve the same kind of look as a mini dress but with more security, especially if you find you’ll be dancing, laughing, or hosting the night away. I like to pair a black romper with a pastel, baggy cardigan and some classic slip-on sandals.

This is a fabulous low-key party outfit idea for chill events. While this is an incredible picnic or house party outfit, more formal dress codes might require other attire. 

Flowing Pants With a Turtleneck

Wide-leg pants are one of my most favorite forms of bottoms. They bring every look to the next level and are so easy to style. I love to pair them with a cashmere turtleneck (maybe one with puff sleeves).

You can’t forget a belt for a dark academia-inspired look that ties it all together — smart casual has a whole new meaning. Add in a blazer or loafers, and you have a party look that will be the talk of the night. 

Mini Skirt and Crop Top

A mini skirt with a crop top is the perfect look for a party out in the nightlife of your local city. This is optimal for parties like birthdays at cocktail bars. Sultry yet sweet, this look is sure to turn heads and leave you feeling confident and cute.

Bodysuits for the Win

Bodysuits are a great way to add a sleek element to your look. I like using lingerie bodysuits tucked into my favorite trendy vintage jeans for a cool look when heading to a house party. I pair this with my trusty colorful pumps and a moto jacket for a look that says I know how to have fun and how to style my look. I add a pair of tights to this party attire if the weather looks a tad chilly. If it’s really cold, I pull out my leggings; layering with leggings is still dressy but totally cold-weather approved. 

Dress Up for a Night Out

Whether you’re hosting a casual party for friends and family or attending an elegant formal event, you’re going to want to prepare so you feel comfortable and cool in your attire.

I’ve got so many looks that I like to style that all depend on the occasion, so I put together some of my favorites to leave you with inspiration. I hope you feel a pep in your step as you head out the door — on your way to make unforgettable memories with the people you love most!

Sources:

Sun protection using hats | ARPANSA

What is the TikTok subculture Dark Academia? | The New York Times

The Grunge Effect: Music, Fashion, and the Media During the Rise of Grunge Culture In the Early 1990s | M/C Journal