"Going-out clothes." Why is it that spending an evening on the town requires its own wardrobe? And, considering how few "cool" nighttime options seem to be available, it's all too easy to fall into the same old cookie-cutter skinny-jeans-and-high-heels ensemble — even though the regret is immediate, when you realize everyone in the bar is wearing the exact same thing.To avoid that situation entirely, we're taking the "going-out" staples you've been wearing for years and showing you just how to update them for 2016. This weekend, give that bodycon dress and those platform pumps a (permanent) rest, and exchange them for any of the fashion-approved party picks ahead. We promise, after one Friday night out in any of these pieces, you won't even miss that pair of shoes you can barely walk in.
Swap: A Pencil Skirt
Though this skintight silhouette has done us well, it's time to loosen things up (literally).
Jonathan Simkhai Textured Stretch-Knit Pencil Skirt, $375, available at Net-a-Porter.
For: A Wrap Skirt
A wrap style is universally flattering — and just as sexy as that hip-hugging one. But we love the added movement (and sexy peek of your upper leg) that happens as you walk or dance. With a simple top, slicked-back hair, and a red lip, people may or may not think you're famous the moment you walk into a room.
Reformation Nessy Skirt, $138, available at Reformation.
Swap: A Bib Necklace
It makes sense that chunky bib necklaces have been going strong since 2012 — they're an easy way to make a statement and instantly dress up any top or dress for nighttime. Four years later, though, we think it's time for a refresh in the jewelry department.
H&M Double-Strand Necklace, $12.99, available at H&M.
For: A Choker
The latest cool-girl accessory is the statement choker. And whether you opt for a fabric version that's been seen on the likes of Kendall and Gigi or a minimalist metallic variation in silver or gold, they're a foolproof way to give even the most casual outfits a little bit of edge.
Jennifer Fisher Net Choker, $475, available at TheRealReal.
Swap: A Pump
A classic high heel is the safest bet possible when it comes to dressing up, but killing your feet or suffering the super-skinny-stiletto wobbles just isn't worth it anymore.
Saint Laurent 'Paris' Pumps, $424.82, available at Farfetch.
For: A Chunky Heel
Give your feet a break with a thicker, sturdier block heel, some ankle support, and a more cushioned sole. What's the point of having a pair of shoes unless you can actually walk in them?
Finery Kelsey Leather Ankle Strap Sandals, $209, available at Finery.
Swap: A Lace-Up Bodysuit
This is one of those trends that just got so overplayed (and yet it's still popping up on the runway left and right). Change up your bodysuit game in favor of a look that hasn't reached mass saturation yet.
Nasty Gal Mariana Ribbed Lace-Up Bodysuit, $58, available at Nasty Gal.
For: A Sheer Version
You know the stars have aligned when you come across a bodysuit that looks this good. Wear it with jeans and a lacy bralette, or let it peek out from under a shift dress or a blazer. The options are endless.
Houghton Keyes Chantilly Lace Bodysuit, $695, available at Moda Operandi.
Swap: A Black Crossbody
For your everyday needs, crossbodys aren't just cute, they're actually reliable: They hold just the right amount of essentials, and allow for hands-free carrying. Odds are, though, you've been using the same bag for the past few years. And you deserve a change.
Elizabeth and James Cynnie Nano Shearling Fur Crossbody Bag, $235 $176, available at Neiman Marcus.
For: A Ring-Handle Bag
A contemporary ring-handled option with on-trend topstitching is a guaranteed way for your bag to stand out from the crowd. Plus, it's more than Instagram-worthy for an #OOTN post.
Simon Miller Black Calf Leather Bucket Bag, $460, available at Avenue32.
Swap: A Bodycon Dress
Everyone loves a throw-on-and-go dress when they're running from work to drinks, but there's no denying it: Bodycon has had its heyday.
Forever 21 Heathered Bodycon Dress, $15.90, available at Forever 21.
For: A Zip-Up Dress
Skip the too-tight silhouette for a mod-inspired zip-front dress with that circle pull you've been seeing on everything. Plus, a dress with pockets is always a win, and will remind you that even going-out looks should still be comfortable.
Staud Asawa Dress, $205, available at Staud.
Swap: A Chandelier Earring
When you're running late on a Friday night, a dangly earring and a little dry shampoo is really all it takes to feel ready for the dance floor. But with minimalist jewelry trending these days, it's time for these oversized baubles to take a backseat.
Light And Shadows O14 Chandelier Earrings, $175, available at Runway2Street.
For: A Minimalist Statement Earring
Less is more with the new wave of statement earrings. If you're feeling especially daring, try wearing just one.
Stylenanda Pierced Circle Earrings, $11, available at Stylenanda.
Swap: A Moto Jacket
Seriously, where would we even be without our trusted leather jacket? Now, we're not saying it's time to throw this baby out, but on days when your outfit is feeling a little dull, it can be nice to change things up.
Oak+Fort Jacket E61, $198, available at Oak+Fort.
For: A Patched Bomber Jacket
This season bomber jackets are the topper of choice, and they're staying strong through the spring. Combine the trend with some cool patches that give it a more DIY-feel.
GCDS Patch Bomber, $500, available at VFILES.
Swap: A Bootie
They go well with dresses and jeans alike, are comfy enough to stomp around in all night, and can handle those messy bar floors. But if you look down, you're bound to see everyone in the same exact pair of shoes as you.
Madewell Billie Boot, $228, available at Madewell.
For: A Sneaker
Athleisure and evening wear? Who'd have thought? For the most unexpected pairing yet, throw on a pair of kicks with a miniskirt or wrap dress, and you'll totally forget about all the heels you own.
Nike Air Max 95 Ultra, $125, available at Nike.
Swap: A Crop Top
With all the high-waisted jeans, shorts, and skirts that have become so readily popular, the crop top has became as much of a mainstay as the T-shirt or button-down.
Tibi Silk Faille Cropped Top, $298, available at Tibi.
For: A Silky Cami
Bring the '90s back (in a good way) with a simple silk cami that makes you look (and feel) just like Kate Moss.
Are You Am I Kaede Camisole, $279, available at Are You Am I.
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