My Favorite Going-Out Outfit Includes This Cool-Girl Staple—38 Under-$100 Finds
To know me is to know I simply don't leave the house without good reason. Dinner and drinks past 8 p.m. during prime Real Housewives of Salt Lake City watching time? Most definitely not. I can, however, be convinced if a particular outing involves an equally-as-compelling outfit.
Enter the classic going-out top. For many cool girls on Instagram and starlets, it's often the first thing they turn to when picking out something to wear for a night out. The term noticeably leaves a ton of room for interpretation. Maybe it's a sparkly, bedazzled crop top, a silky halter-neck, or perhaps one of the dozens of options on the market right now, all clocking in at under $100. With new styles coming in hot every day on our favorite retailers like Zara, Revolve, and Shopbop, there's quite literally a going-out top for every occasion you could possibly think of. Plus, they go especially well with jeans or a classic pair of black trousers, no matter the occasion. Versatility rating? Major score.
Below, shop some of the best affordable going-out tops perfect for after-office drinks, a date night, or a squad outing. Trust me—you'll have to resist buying every single one on this list.
If Satine's dreamy pearl top isn't in your budget, this great Reformation top is calling your name.
This color is simply everything in my book. Pair it with some white linen trousers and oversize gold earrings for an ultimate It-girl look.
Ever since I saw this top on Zara's site last month, I haven't been able to stop thinking about its sage goodness.
Red is one of my favorite fall runway trends, and this top is perfect with a statement mini, styled similarly above.
The baby-blue version of this top is giving me major Sandy Liang vibes on a budget.
This top feels so versatile. I could see myself wearing this to the office or to a post-work happy hour.
Quick question: Is it socially acceptable to get this corset in both colors? I'd say yes.
Wait, I'm shocked this one is still in stock given how good this deal is.
If you're looking for something chicer than a usual white tank under a blazer, this rusty cropped version is an incredible option.
If you're after something more comfortable for a beach outing, look no further.
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor whose work ranges from dissecting size inclusivity at fashion week to discussing how American Girl Doll meme accounts are the the answer to society's collective spiral. She's covered it all: Copenhagen Fashion Week, Roe v. Wade frontline protests, and the re-branding of jorts, or, jean shorts for the uninitiated. At Who What Wear, Ana crafts sharp, irreverent features that speak to a digital-first generation, bringing her signature wit and unapologetic tone to long-form fashion and beauty content. If it’s smart, snarky, and a little unexpected, you'll probably find her name on it.
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