Anytime that someone says, “Want to come to happy hour?” I say “yes” before that person even finishes the question. Happy hours, for me, are not just about the discounted drinks, but about the ability to get together with those you care about the most after having a stressful day at work. Even more because happy hour is a collection of people trying to de-stress after work, it is a great way to connect with a variety of different people who can relate to the work stress you may be going through. So maybe after work, you’re ready to head out to happy hour. If that’s the case, here’s some inspiration for a happy hour outfit that also works perfectly to wear to work.
Shop the Post
Dress – NA-KD | Bag – Nordstrom | Make-Up: MAC Cosmetics
I’ve talked about transitional work wear outfits before, but there is always a need for a few different outfits that transition very well. This dress is another one that will take you from the office to happy hour, especially when dealing with this summer heat. My favorite place for happy hour during the summer is on the patios and the outdoor seating at various bars and restaurants. After being coop-ed up inside for the majority of the day, everyone want to stay out and enjoy that fresh air. Some of my favorite restaurants in Easton actually have the windows in their bar area removed so that it is an even flow of fresh air into the room. It’s like the best of both worlds, if you like to be inside.
When wearing a dress for your work day, grab a denim jacket or a thin cardigan to keep you shoulders covered and to keep you slightly warm when the air conditioning is on blast. You can add a little “going out” spice to your outfit by accessorizing the look with statement bags or statement shoes. These sandals paired well with this outfit because they make a subtle statement without taking away from the dress itself. The embellishment adds an additional aspect to the outfit. Unfortunately, these particular sandals are sold out because I bought them about 3 years ago, but if you shop your local Aldo, you can find some amazing shoes like these sandals there.
Once you have your look together, you can head off to work, and then once it’s clockin’-out time, you can shed that cardigan or jacket and head off to happy hour. And then make sure that you enjoy that happy hour, I mean, it’s only for a few hours and that glass of wine can definitely make you forget that distressful email that you got telling you that the project you thought was almost finished now has other components added to it. Or in my case, those essays that you thought you only had 5 left to grade are actually a pile of 20 because you left the rest sitting on your desk underneath another pile of worksheets you need to grade.
TIPS FOR CREATING A HAPPY HOUR OUTFIT
KEEP IT CASUAL
If you’re headed to a casual happy hour, the key is to keep it simple and comfortable. Start with a pair of jeans or casual pants and pair it with a cute top for your happy hour outfit. You could opt for a simple t-shirt, a blouse, or even a tank top depending on the weather. To add some interest to your outfit, consider layering with a cardigan or denim jacket. This not only adds dimension to your outfit but also keeps you warm in case the temperature drops in the evening. Finish off the look with some comfortable shoes, such as flats or sneakers.
DRESS IT UP
If you’re headed to a more formal happy hour, you’ll want to dress it up a bit. Start with a classic LBD or a statement dress. Make sure the dress is appropriate for the event and the venue. Pair your dress with some heels or dressy flats and accessorize with some statement jewelry. A statement necklace or some dangly earrings can add a touch of glamour to your outfit. Finish off the look with a clutch or small handbag.
PLAY WITH PRINTS AND COLORS
Happy hour is the perfect time to experiment with prints and colors. You can go bold with a printed top or dress, or keep it subtle with some colorful accessories. If you’re going for a print, make sure to balance it out with solid-colored pieces. For example, if you’re wearing a printed top, pair it with some solid-colored pants or jeans. If you’re wearing a printed dress, pair it with some simple accessories and shoes.
ACCESSORIZE WISELY
Accessories can make or break an outfit, so make sure to choose wisely. If you’re going for a bold outfit, keep your accessories simple. For example, if you’re wearing a bright top, pair it with some simple earrings and a bracelet. If you’re wearing a statement necklace, keep the rest of your accessories simple. If you’re going for a more subtle outfit, you can afford to go bold with your accessories. For example, if you’re wearing a simple dress, you could add some statement earrings or a chunky bracelet.
MIX AND MATCH
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces to create a unique and interesting happy hour outfit. You could pair a patterned skirt with a solid-colored top, or pair a denim jacket with a floral dress. Mixing and matching different pieces can help you create a one-of-a-kind outfit that shows off your personal style.
In conclusion, styling outfits for happy hour is all about having fun and expressing your personal style. Whether you’re going for a casual or formal look, make sure to choose pieces that make you feel comfortable and confident. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different prints, colors, and accessories to create a unique and interesting outfit. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy your time with friends.
SaveSave
