These are the black going out tops you’ll be able to style for every occasion

Every season it can be a bit of a minefield knowing which trends to invest in and the ones to leave well alone. Luckily, there are some pieces you can add to your wardrobe, such as stylish black going out tops, with the knowledge that they’ll go the distance. 

We’re talking the crisp white shirt you can wear from brunch with jeans to after-dark with leather trousers, then there’s the humble blazer you’ll bring out for every occasion. The capsule wardrobe is made up of great, effortless items that when paired together can be all you need to create the perfect outfit. Party season also has its own set of pieces that work each and every year, and one of these is the black top. 

Like the LBD (little black dress), the black top holds a place in your forever wardrobe, for party season and beyond. 

Why is a black going out top perfect for party season?

If you’re in doubt when it comes to a certain style of top, the best way to ease yourself in is by buying it in black. The flattering colour is the fail-safe way to ensure you’ll get the most wear out of it. It’s also a colour you can wear for any occasion – from brunch and dinner dates to Christmas parties – and it’ll go with anything in your wardrobe. Whether you team a black wrap top with a pair of wide-leg trousers, or you add a black blouse over a roll-neck knit with jeans and boots, you can rest assured it’ll always look its best. 

When it comes to party season, the classic black top gets a sprinkling of festive cheer. Updated with sparkly and sheer details, cutouts, prints and fancy collars, it’s an all-round winner. Basically, when it comes to this time of year everything gets a little bit fabulous and you know what? We’re certainly going to embrace it. Here’s our edit of the best black going out tops to buy now, and wear for all occasions.

Best black going out tops for party season

This sheer top is the go-to for layering. Wear it over a black cami top and pair with an oversized blazer for a chic, timeless and effortless outfit that’ll go with anything from a pleated midi skirt to skinny jeans. 

Statement sleeves are key this year, as are universally flattering square necklines. Add the two together (along with perfect polka dots) and you get a top you’ll want to wear at any given opportunity from here on out. 

A mesh top may seem daunting but you have to see it as a layering tool you can incorporate into your existing wardrobe. Add this giraffe-print style under a waistcoat or a blazer and it’ll add a subtle hint of party to your everyday look.

Add a dash of sparkle to your classic black blouse thanks to Hobbs. Wear this for a virtual Zoom party with gold jewellery or keep it daytime-ready with jeans and black, heeled boots. 

Update the classic T-shirt with this spot sleeve number from Matalan. At just £12.50, in sizes 8-20, the cost-per-wear will be pennies by the time you’ve worn it on repeat each and every party season for the foreseeable. 

Make a statement in this showstopper black top you’ll want to show it off at every party (real or virtual) this year. The peplum hem is flattering and the puff sleeves and square neckline are key mini trends to tick off this season. 

Update your knitwear collection with this amazing sequin sleeve style everyone will admire. No accessories needed with this one, let it be the talking point – day or night – and style it with a simple pair of black jeans to complete the look. 

A little bit of lace can go a long way when it comes to getting ready for an evening soirée. Layer this sheer style over a cami top and a slinky midi skirt with mules and you’ll have an ensemble that you’ll love wearing. 

Sometimes a simple detail can overhaul a basic top and this time it’s ruching. The flattering gathered fabric draws the eye down and will become your new wear-everywhere style.

A top that you can throw on any time and feel instantly more glamorous? We’re sold. This beauty found in the Curves section at New Look is available in sizes 18-32 and believe us when we say it’ll be one of your favourites this season. 

Add a spot of colour into a black top with this stunning metallic polka dot style from Wallis. The square neckline and elasticated cuffs are the flattering details to look out for – try it out with a metallic pleated skirt and colour pop heels for a fun after-dark outfit. 

Velvet goes hand in hand with party season attire. This wrap top is made for layering over roll necks, sheer tops or even a different colour T-shirt. For the Zoom party, though, try it out on its own with a chunky necklace and lashings of red lipstick. 

All-over sequins can be tricky but they’re easier to wear when they’re black. Try out this chic short sleeved iteration with tailored wide-leg trousers, classic court heels and a chain handle handbag if you’re heading out. 

It’s written in the stars that you should wear this amazing printed blouse for party season. Can’t get enough of starry pieces this time of year? The London-born brand also has it in dress form. 

In black or khaki, this off-the-shoulder Bardot top is the perfect party style. Wear it with a midi skirt and knee-high boots for a look you can take from brunch to the virtual Zoom party. 

One of the best blouses we’ve seen around for party season, Karen Millen is one of the go-to brands for party tops. Style this sheer-sleeved version with a sequin skirt or even trousers for an ensemble that’ll shine through the night. 

A satin cami top can be the base to any great outfit. Whether you wear this one on its own with leather trousers or you layer it over a long sleeve top, you’ll wear it so many times across all seasons.