IMAGE: @JEANNEDAMAS
Summer is here which means the shops are inundated with colour. From bright oranges and vivid greens to oceanic blues and fuchsia pinks. Some may relish this time of year, but for the more minimalist dressers, it can prove a challenge.
While it may seem unlikely, amid a sea of prints a simple black dress can make more of a statement than the brightest hue in the colour wheel. Black is understated, confident and sleek and often the go-to shade for minimalists who prefer a clean and sophisticated look, not to mention versatility.
It’s a common belief that black is a no-no during the hotter months and heat absorption may be why. While it’s true that black clothing absorbs more sunlight, it’s also known to radiate that heat away from the body. Meaning, there’s no need to retire your black clothing until winter — this colour could prove to be the ultimate summer shade.
"Elegant. Understated. Timeless. If there's ONE THING we know for SURE, it's that BLACK isn't going ANYWHERE, no matter how warm it is."
It all lies in the choice of fabric. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton. These materials allow for better airflow and sweat evaporation, keeping you cool. Think flowing linen trousers, a breezy maxi skirt or a tailored waistcoat — all these items look even more chic in black and are a practical choice when made from the right materials.
Not sure where to begin? Fear not, I’ve hunted Instagram in search of the best examples of how to wear black this summer. Each and every one of these looks proves that black is always a chic, smart and timeless choice, even in the warmest of climes. So, the next time you find yourself overwhelmed by the explosion of summer colours, refer to this post for inspiration on sophisticated all-black summer dressing.
1. Maxi Dress + Flats
When in doubt, opt for a maxi dress. Flowing and feminine, this piece is just as suited to evening dinner as it is coastal strolls. As for footwear, add sparkling mesh flats to heighten the elegance factor or simply slip on a pair of sandals to keep things laid-back.
RAYE
ME+EM
FURLA
LE SPECS
2. Bandeau Top + Tailored Shorts + Loafers
This outfit is the perfect example of how to do an all-black ensemble the French girl way. A simple bandeau top and tailored shorts are two versatile pieces that never go out of style, while a neck scarf and loafers add a polished finish.
MINT VELVET
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH
URBAN OUTFITTERS
NA-KD
WOLF & BADGER
UNIQLO
3. Tank Top + Mini Skirt + Sliders
When a casual city stroll calls for laid-back luxury, this outfit is where it’s at. There’s no piece more versatile, comfortable and long-lasting than a tank top; it’s the ultimate canvas. Pair it with a timeless black mini skirt and some casual sandals and you’ve got a look that says “effortless cool”.
REFORMATION
STEVE MADDEN
CHARLES & KEITH
MARKS & SPENCER
DAGMAR
4. Tank Top + Silk Skirt + Ballet Flats
A long silk skirt isn’t just for evening soirées, pair it with a casual tank top and some ballet flats for an effortlessly elegant daytime look. Plus, silk is a great way to break up an all-black look with a different texture.
REISS
MASSIMO DUTTI
STEVE MADDEN
DEMELLIER LONDON
5. Blazer + Capri Pants + Mules
While the capri pant elicits a divided opinion among many, the 90s style is undoubtedly a classic. Channel your inner Hepburn and pair yours with an oversized blazer, sleek mules and a clutch bag for a modern interpretation.
NA-KD
REFORMATION
DEMELLIER LONDON
6. Waistcoat + Suit Trousers + Heels
An all-black outfit is classic but that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with a pop of colour and print, as demonstrated by this sophisticated look. Strappy red sandals are just the right amount of bold while the cheetah print bag adds a touch of fun.
MASSIMO DUTTI
WEEKDAY
ROUJE
VAGABOND
7. Bandeau Top + Maxi Skirt + Sandals
Never underestimate the power of simple separates — they’ll take you a long way in terms of versatility. As evidenced by this ribbed bandeau top and slim maxi skirt which spell elegance at its finest.
H&M
ÉTERNE
AEYDE
THE KOOPLES
8. Linen Top + Trousers + Sandals
If you’re looking for an outfit that can take you from day to night with ease, this is it. Linen is the ultimate summer fabric so this ensemble will keep you cool during the day while offering sophistication come the evening with a simple swap to a pair of heeled sandals.
WHISTLES
STRADIVARIUS
LIÉ STUDIO
9. Maxi Dress + Sandals
Head-to-toe black has “confidence” written all over it. It’s a simple, sophisticated look that can be dressed up and down as you like. The best part? Bring a dress like this out year after year and it never gets old.
WHISTLES
ALL SAINTS
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
JIGSAW
10. Slip Dress + Flip Flops
Flip flops have come a long way from being a humble shoe you slip on after a dip in the pool — they’ve now become a main part of an evening ensemble and I, for one, am all for it. This combo of a lace-trimmed slip dress with leather flip-flops is effortlessly feminine and elegant.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
ANTHROPOLOGIE
MARKS & SPENCER
11. Waistcoat + Maxi Skirt + Ballet Flats
Looking for a fresh take on all-black tailoring for the summer? This clean-cut waistcoat and sleek skirt is just the answer. Breathable and light for those balmy days, this outfit is just as suited to city strolls as it is al fresco dining.
ALIGNE
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH
ALOHAS
