A black outfit, no matter what it is, always feels a little more classic and elevated. And oftentimes, it’s the color we choose for a more elegant and dressy occasion. Come summer, the warmer months has us grabbing more lighter and brighter colors due to the extra sunshine and higher temps.
Wearing black in the summer isn’t always a first choice for many of us. I know I’m guilty of this myself! But summer really means summer fabrics and breezy silhouettes, that help to make summer a carefree season. It isn’t necessarily all about the color.
A few reasons why I do find myself grabbing summer pieces in black, are because they complement sun-kissed skin. There’s really nothing better than a black little dress against fresh tan lines (or even a faux one too!). So in an effort to wear more black this summer, I’m sharing some tips on how to wear black in the summer and some great summer outfits to inspire you with your very own closet.
How To Wear Black In Summer
Choose The Right Fabrics
I feel like a broken record sometimes because the right fabric choice is everything. Whether you’re dressing for summer, or fall, or attending a black-tie wedding, the fabric really truly can make or break your look. For wearing black in the summer, it really is ALL ABOUT THE FABRIC.
You’ll be miserably hot if you’re wearing a black dress that’s polyester just because it’s in your closet. Keep that polyester black dress for winter! And instead, grab the breathable more natural fabrics that are meant for the heat like linen and cotton. Even cotton blends are fine too.
This will help you stay cool while wearing such a dark shade that can sometimes make you a tad hotter. And, a great way to do this in the summer is with a pair of black denim shorts. Give me denim shorts all day long. The best way to wear black in the summer without having to think because the fabric is already on your side!
Flowy Silhouettes
To beat the heat while wearing black, choose more flowy silhouettes like lightweight maxis, t-shirt dresses and picnic tanks. In case you are in direct sun, the black fabric will make you hot, so having some pieces that don’t cling to your body will make you feel a lot more comfortable in warm weather.
Summer Color Combinations
I think the hardest part that people have with wearing black clothing in the summer is what color to pair with it. Depending on your personal style, you may love adding some fun bold colors like neons and bright colors. I think that pairs perfectly with black when everything is in light and airy fabrics too.
For me and my personal style, I really like to stick to minimal and classic color combinations. Give me black with cognac leather accessories. Sandals, a belt, and a straw hat. It’s all the best neutral summer pieces paired with black for an instant summer outfit that’s totally chic.
I also love a classic black and white combination. White denim shorts paired with black gladiator sandals and a simple black cotton tank, and you’ve got a sleek look that’s comfortable and breathable for hot days.
But you can also go do head to toe black and still feel summery. It’s all about fabric and accessories. More on that below!
Accessorize For The Season
You can truly take one black cotton t-shirt dress and change it up for each season and it would be appropriate if done right. So when wearing black, even if it’s not a piece that screams summer, you can make it summer appropriate by accessorizing the right way for the season.
Try straw and woven bags, strappy sandals, and so on. Leave the chunky leather sneakers in the closet along with the leather bags. These pieces just feel heavy and will make the black outfit feel off. Instead, choosing the lighter fabrics and styles will ensure you look the part for summer!
Black Summer Outfits
Black Beach Outfit
If you’re beach bound, black is so chic and oh so flattering. Go with a one piece black swimsuit and top with an oversized black linen button down. Pairs perfectly with denim cut offs and a pair of summer slides. This is my note to self to get a big oversized linen button down asap.
Countryside Vacation Look
When exploring on vacation I love easy comfortable pieces. This linen romper is breathable and comfortable. Add summer accessories for a perfect countryside vacation look.
The great thing about a black linen romper for summer is being able to change it up. You can go head to toe black with black sandals and a bag. Or add in some lighter pieces with rattan, woven belts and espadrilles in cream or beige. And of course, you can always add pops of color!
City Exploring Outfit
A favorite vacation look for me is always a dress and sneakers. Or a cotton tee, midi skirt and sneakers as a similar option. I love this open back midi dress paired with white slip on sneakers for summer. This is the perfect outfit to spend all day walking in while still looking perfectly stylish.
Exploring a city usually means lots of walking and not a ton of relief from the heat. So that means flowy silhouettes and breathable fabrics. Plus, comfortable walking shoes. This is the perfect black summer outfit for city exploring.
Weekend Errands
I adore this little black swing dress Camille paired with summer accessories. Simple woven sandals, a lightweight bag, perfection for weekend errands or brunch with friends. This is one of those looks you just can’t go wrong with. It’s a throw it on and go, kind of look.
Black 9-5 Summer Outfit
Black and whtie is a great combination for the office. Paired with a nude low block heel and you’re good to go. It doesn’t need to be complicated! Loving this simply classic look from Nena, she has tons of great business casual outfit ideas.
When dressing for the office in black for the summer, fabric plays a huge role. You can still wear a lot of the same silhouettes like trousers and skirts, but keep the fabrics lighter to stay cool.
Daytime Hangout
The perfect look for daytime casual hangs, vacation, or even a date. Easy, effortless and checks off all the rules for wearing black in the summer. A simple cotton tank paired with summer denim and all the black summer accessories.
These Castañer espadrilles are a favorite and make wearing black in the summer super easy. Add a black summer straw bag and you’re good to go. I love this easy look and it just stands the test of time too!
Polished Parisian Inspired Black Summer Outfit
This is an easy and polished look that is casual but elevated. It’s a classic Parisian inspired look that you can easily recreate with your favorite striped tee. Black trouser style shorts are a great option for creating summer looks with ease.
Summer Weddings And Events
If you’re heading to a summer wedding or nicer event, wearing black is still totally appropriate. So long as the event is not black tie, or semi-formal, more on wedding dress codes here, you can get away with cotton poplin or nice linen or lace, for a black dress option.
This outfit is the perfect example of how to do this the right way. Add a black woven bag instead of a leather one. And for shoes, try a black espadrille, or block heel. And choose dress silhouettes that fit the season. This keyhole and halter style is perfect for showing off a bit of skin to a summer event.
If wearing black is one of your go-to colors in your wardrobe, I hope these outfit ideas and style tips help you feel better about putting summer looks together. Instead of wearing heavy fabrics, and non-seasonal silhouettes, opt for fabrics and fits that feel summery. Try linen, cotton, and silhouettes that feel summer like flowy dresses, tanks and shorts in your favorite color.
