The 5 best going out tops to wear with jeans

If you’re the kind of person who agonizes over what to wear when you’re going out somewhere which requires you to make a bit of an effort, but still with a casual bent, then this article is for you!

Here are some of the best going out tops to wear with jeans.

While it may not be an official dress code, like black tie or cocktail attire, for example, “jeans and a nice top” has become such a well-used phrase that many online stores now have specific sections with that exact title!

Last in favor in the Nineties, wearing a top and denim is hardly groundbreaking when it comes to putting an outfit together, but that doesn’t mean that it’s easy. It can be difficult to find the perfect combination.

Here are some ideas to try.

A silk blouse

Choosing a blouse in a luxe fabric can really lift your look. Opt for silk and a pair of heels and you’re ready for drinks with friends, or dinner with your other half.

The sleeves on this top by Sézane are not only pretty, but also perfect if you’re not confident about your upper arms.

Sezane silk top – Madewell skinny jeans – Brocade clutch – Louise et Cie black leather pump – Bauble Bar triple strand necklace –

Embellishment or sequins

A simple, but stunning, way to give jeans a dressed-up edge is to tap into the “more is more” trend for SS18 (more on 2018 summer trends here)  and to team your denim with a sequined or embellished top.

Opt for tops with sleeves or a long-line to avoid the 90s pop princess vibe (unless that’s what you’re aiming for, of course).

The great thing about this look is it encourages you to dig out sequin pieces from the back of your wardrobe that you usually only wear for special occasions.

Trouve D silver top – Liver Pool black jeans – Michael Kor’s black sandals – Bauble Bar black earrings

Play with proportion

Voluminous tops are all the rage at the moment, and they can add interest to what would otherwise be a very simple look. They can also enhance your curves if you have them, and create some if you don’t.

Balance them out with bootcut and flared jeans. Plus, you don’t have to worry about being practical if you’re heading out, so you can wear trendy bell sleeves or big bows, just as long as you don’t dip them into your meal!

Don’t forget about dressing for your body type. If you’re pear-shaped, then you may want to add extra interest to your top and sleeves to balance out your bottom half. But, if you’re an inverted triangle, for instance, you won’t want to add bulk to your shoulders. Equally, if you’re an apple, you won’t want fussy bows at your waist, while they could look lovely for an hourglass.

Habitual checked blouse – Naturalizer white bootie – AG high waist crop jeans

Wrap it up

A wrap top always looks chic, cinching in your waist. Plus, a wrap top can have a bit of a Seventies vibe, which is very on-trend for 2019, so you’ll be both behind and ahead of the times! Wear with a boot cut and heels, and add a clutch and you’re good to go.

Mavi bootcut jeans – Vince Camuto pink sandals – Nina metallic clutch – Nina drop earrings – Press wrap blouse –

Lovely in lace

Lace is usually associated with occasion wear, so choosing a lace top is a great way to dress up your jeans.

To dress it up even more, you could add a blazer. Or, if you want a more casual vibe, I love delicate lace teamed with a tough biker jacket!

Paige jeans – Tracy lace top – Nina pearl earrings – Eileen Fisher sandals – Rebecca Minkoff beaded clutch –

What do you love to wear with your jeans? What is your favorite way of styling your denim for a night out?

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest!

Want to get more articles from 40+style in your inbox, subscribe here.

You can also connect with 40+style on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest.

Support 40+style by using the links in our articles to shop. As an associate for Amazon and many other brands, we receive a small commission (at no cost to you) on qualifying purchases which enables us to keep creating amazing free content for you. Thanks!