Really? I always think the Lanes is poor for pubs, very expensive and touristy. Best ones are around the station, North Laine, Kemp Town, etc.
Just avoid West Street though basically.
Probably best to avoid "smartly dressed" down here if you're going clubbing, it's not really the done thing like it is in the Midlands and the North. Trainers/t-shirts are the norm in the better clubs.