There's this unbearably common struggle of lugging a duffel bag with a complete outfit to your office, only to have to find a spot to store it under your desk and ultimately sneak to the bathroom stall to do a full-on change for after-hours drinks later that night. Are you with us? Well, it's actually pretty simple to wear the same outfit from desk to drinks—as long as you have a key foundation piece. And we’ve rounded up the best of these workwear staples to inspire you with the best day-to-night outfit ideas.
Today, we’re highlighting the five most versatile pieces (which you probably already have in your closet). They require little styling effort to work both in and out of the office, simplifying your day-to-night outfit strategy—no last-minute dress changes required. From rompers to silk blouses to wrap skirts, you can’t go wrong with a good foundation piece. Buy it once for endless styling possibilities. Topping the list is—yes, you guessed it—an LBD. The most versatile black dresses will have just enough interesting details to work for any occasion. And the same goes for the rest of our day-to-night essentials: Add a cool twist to any of these staples, and you’ll never have to fret again about packing an extra outfit.
We know you are busy so we went ahead and sourced the best day-to-night outfit ideas to make your life a little easier. Keep reading for the key pieces to effortlessly take you from work to play.
The Interesting LBD
If you go for a little black dress with interesting details, it will stand out for an evening soirée but won’t be too much during the day either.
Available in sizes 0 to 10.We love this leather midi dress from Vince, perfect with a blazer and heels for the office and for drinks after.
Available in sizes 2 to 12.While the print is perfect for the office, the tie waist gives this dress an extra flair for after hours.
Available in sizes 0 to 12.While you can wear this alone for a night out, pair with a long-sleeve top or blazer for the office.
Available in sizes 0 to 14.For more conservative offices, opt for a simple black dress with a subtle tie detail.
The Wrap Skirt
There’s something about a wrap skirt that feels sophisticated and chic in a not-trying-so-hard kind of way. Wear with a slim turtleneck for day, toss on a moto jacket for evening, and you’re set.
Available in sizes 34 to 40.A beautiful shape and color, this wrap skirt pairs expertly with a blouse and heels for a chic office outfit and for after.
Available in sizes 38 to 42.Just as stylish with sneakers as it is with heels.
Available in sizes 0 to 14.Try this navy leather wrap skirt for an instantly chic look.
Available in sizes 2 to 12.This print is the perfect mix of office-appropriate and fun.
The Shirtdress
While the shirtdress may seem more casual, it’s actually quite versatile and easy to turn into a nighttime getup. You just have to pay attention to your accessories—wear Oxfords during the day and amp up your look with heels at night. That’s it!
Available in sizes XS to L.Every office wardrobe needs a classic striped shirtdress that doubles as an after-hours look.
Available in sizes 0 to 12.Try this take on the classic shirtdress.
Available in sizes XS to L.The twist tie waist gives this shirtdress an ultra-flattering fit.
Available in sizes 2 to 8.Try this plaid printed shirtdress this winter.
The Jumpsuit
Looking for an easy item to take you from day to night like that? Try a jumpsuit. It’s elevated enough when you’re heading out for a night on the town, and if you choose a style that isn’t too flashy, it works just as well at the office.
Available in sizes 0X to 4X.This deep plum is the perfect winter color.
Available in sizes 2 to 8.If any brand masters the art of the day-to-night piece, it's Reformation.
Available in sizes XS to L.For a bolder office look, try this plaid jumpsuit.
We love the attention to detail on this jumpsuit.
The Silk Blouse
We love a silk blouse because it totally works at the office and feels fancy enough for drinks out too.
Available in sizes 38 to 48.We love the sleeves on this beautiful black silk blouse.
Available in sizes 00 to 4.Try this French-inspired version of a silk blouse.
Available in sizes 0 to 14.Red is the only color that matters this holiday season.
Available in sizes XXS to 3X.A fun yet muted print to take you effortlessly from day to night.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.