25 Going-Out Tops for When “Jeans and a Nice Top” Needs an Upgrade

Getting dressed is half the fun of going out. When the group chat inevitably asks, “What’s everyone wearing?” ahead of the night’s plans, the answer is always almost the same: “Pants and a nice top”. It’s vague, but everyone knows exactly what it means.

The “going out top” is decidedly dressier than your everyday tee. It’s something a little fun, slinky – even sexy. Depending on the occasion, sequins, sheer panels, cut-outs or a low back are welcome. If you’re thinking of 2002 Keira Knightley on the dancefloor in a chainmail halter in Bend It Like Beckham – same.

But we’ve come a long way from the early noughties; going-out tops are no longer strictly for the club. Today’s iterations feel more versatile and wearable. Silhouettes have shifted from racy, club-ready cuts to polished tops, designed to move from the office to evening plans. Dinner with friends, drinks at a Martini bar, catching a new play.

That’s not to say you can’t still wear them “out-out”, to a club, festival or party. Style them with jeans or a miniskirt – layered under a coat or worn solo.

Wherever you’re headed, we’ve rounded up 25 styles to shop right now – from halter necks and strapless tube styles to vintage-inspired blouses.

Asymmetrical going out tops

There’s something effortlessly chic and a little bit flirty about asymmetrical cuts. They offer just the right peek of skin. Flowy fabrics like silk and georgette create sculptural movement. Layer semi-sheer pieces over a tank or go bold with full sheer.

Strapless bustier tops

Shoulderless and sleeveless, the corset-like structure of tube tops dominated the early 2000s and remains a flattering pick for nights out. Channel Carrie Bradshaw and style them with cargo pants, hot pants or a midi skirt.

Halterneck tops

Business in the front, party in the back, halter-neck cuts leave the shoulders and back exposed. This season, the classic Y2K silhouette is updated with beaded details, polka dots, scarf-like wraps and cowl necks.

Tank-cut tops

The everyday white tank gets a glow-up with these styles. Go big on the glitz with sequins and feathered embroidery. Or keep it minimal with clean lines and tailored details.

Vintage-inspired going out tops

Moody, 19th-century Victorian aesthetics are making a comeback – thanks in part to Margot Robbie’s Wuthering Heights. Ruffled collars feel romantic and bodice-like tailoring adds delicate structure. Pair them with something edgy for contrast or lean into an ultra-feminine look.

We hope you like the products we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.