A definitive list of all the best going out tops to shop, from $18.

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Work drinks. A girly dinner. Date night. 

Funny how the best occasions are often the trickiest to dress for. It's not black-tie, but you still want to feel like you've made an effort.

That's where the classic "going out top" comes in. Easily paired with a simple pair of jeans or plain skirt, it will make you look put together without trying too hard.

I've done the scrolling for you and pulled together the most affordable going out tops (from just $18). 

Some are cropped, some are long. Some are sleeveless, some have long sleeves. Some bare a little skin and some are modest. 

There's something here for everybody. 

Now all that's left is to book a spot at the wine bar.

Listen: These eight tips will help you avoid overspending when it comes to party season. Post continues below.

Glassons Print Mesh Scarf Halter Top, $29.99.

Image: Glassons.

This one's giving "cool girl out for cocktails." The draped scarf cut feels effortless while the polka-dot print keeps it playful. Throw it on with denim for dinner, or layer gold jewellery and slick hair for full party energy.

Petal & Pup Camila Open Back Top, $69.

Image: Petal & Pup.

Business at the front, total flirt at the back. The Camila Top looks classic with its boat neckline and short sleeves — then you turn around, and it's all open-back drama with a sweet tie detail. Perfect with jeans and a wine in hand.

Kookai Mara Top, $90.

Image: Kookai.

Simple, but make it special. The Mara Top hugs in all the right places with its ruched body, while the bead detail at the shoulder adds a little "I actually thought about my outfit" moment.

Glassons Tie Detail Halter Neck Blouse, $29.99.

Image: Glassons.

Soft, flowy, and perfect for when you want to feel feminine without trying too hard. The halter neckline ties at the back for a made-to-fit look you'll keep reaching for.

DISSH Pippy Indigo Linen Strapless Top, $149.99.

Image: DISSH.

A strapless top that actually stays put — yes, please. This linen number has a wide tie you can knot at the front or back, plus hidden grip at the bust for support. It's chic, structured, and begging for wide-leg trousers and heels.

City Chic Chloe Cowl Neck Print Top in Sage, $89.95.

Image: City Chic.

Silky, slinky, and a little bit sexy. The Chloe Top's cowl neckline is flattering without trying, and the relaxed fit makes it easy to dress up or down. Pair with jeans and sandals, or tuck it into a midi skirt for dinner dates.

Meshki Culver Draped Twist Knit Top, $89.

Image: MESHKI.

Think knitwear, but with a twist — literally. The Culver Top has a draped neckline, long sleeves, and a slim fit that feels polished without being stuffy. It's comfy enough for work, but cool enough for after-work drinks.

Beginning Boutique Sky Red Mesh Off Shoulder Top, $69.99.

Image: Beginning Boutique.

Red = main character energy. This mesh off-shoulder top is fitted, a little sheer, and seriously fun. Style it with denim for casual drinks, or go bold with a mini skirt and strappy heels when you want all eyes on you.

Kmart Off Shoulder Woven Top, $20.

Image: Kmart.

Proof that chic doesn't have to cost a fortune. This off-shoulder woven top looks breezy and feminine, with a flattering neckline and easy fit. Perfect for tossing on with jeans or shorts when you want to look cute with zero effort.

Perfect Stranger Fenella Short Sleeve Top White, $100.

Image: Perfect Stranger.

Think crisp and tailored, but still playful. The Fenella Top is all about volume in the sleeves with a buttoned-up finish. It's giving "French girl on holiday."

Kmart Sleeveless Boho Ruffle Top, $18

Image: Kmart.

Your warm-weather MVP. Lightweight cotton, cute ruffles, and adjustable straps make this top an easy throw-on for beach days, brunches, or just running errands while still looking put-together.

Kookai Addison top, $90.

Image: Kookai.

Off-shoulder, ruched, and ultra-flattering; the Addison Top has just the right amount of stretch to hug your shape while still being comfy. It's the kind of "goes with everything" piece you'll live in.

Glassons Wrap Halter Top, $39.99.

Image: Glassons.

Clean, simple, and super flattering. This wrap halter cinches your waist and shows off your shoulders — an instant wardrobe staple you can dress up or down.

City Chic Imani Off Shoulder Top, $59.95.

Image: City Chic.

Feminine without the fuss. The Imani Top slips on easily and sits off the shoulder for that relaxed-but-pretty vibe. Pair it with denim or tuck into a skirt for easy everyday style.

Perfect Stranger Luca Strapless Long Line Top Brown, $80.

Image: Perfect Stranger.

Structured and sleek, this strapless top has a tailored fit and a fold-over neckline that feels polished and cool. The longline cut makes it perfect with wide-leg pants or a mini skirt.

Peppermayo Breanne Top in Black Polka Dot, $79.95.

Image: Peppermayo.

Corset-style fit? Check. Polka dots? Double check. The Breanne Top is flirty, structured, and surprisingly comfy thanks to its lined cups and ruched details. Perfect for a night out when you want to feel bold and classic at the same time.

Feature image: Perfect Stranger/DISSH.