If there is one color I continually gravitate toward when I’m looking for an instantly chic outfit, it’s black. Wearing black in summer might sound counterintuitive, but it’s actually one of the easiest ways to look instantly polished, if you style it right.
Whether you’re dressing for a warm day in the city or heading out for a casual dinner, black pieces are versatile, effortless, and always elevated. The key to including black in your summer wardrobe is focusing on fit and fabric. In this post, I’m sharing my go-to tips on how to wear black in summer, plus easy outfit ideas to inspire your next look.
How to Wear Black in Summer
Choose the Right Fabrics
When it comes to black summer outfits, lightweight and breathable fabrics are essential. Think natural materials like cotton, linen, and gauze. These materials help keep things airy and comfortable while still giving you that elevated look that black always provides.
Pair Black Accessories with Summer Tones
If you don’t want to do a full all black outfit for warm weather, incorporating black accessories is a great way to incorporate black into your outfit. A black sandal, structured bag, or pair of sunglasses not only grounds a lighter outfit, it also adds visual contrast. Pair your black accessories with whites, creams, or even soft pastels for a balanced, summer-forward look that still feels intentional.
Black Accessories to Love
Kitten Heels
Black Crossbody Bag
Oval Sunglasses
Opt for Airy Silhouettes
Black doesn’t have to mean heavy or overly structured. In fact, wearing flowy silhouettes and looser shapes is one of my favorite ways to keep black looking fresh in the warmer months. Try relaxed black dresses, loose-fitting black trousers, or a poplin midi skirt.
Play with Textures
When you’re working with a single color, texture can make a big difference in making an outfit feel complete. This is especially helpful in the summer when you aren’t working with as many layers. Lightweight knits, eyelet, crinkled cotton, and subtle sheens (like satin or matte silk) help add depth to an all-black outfit without weighing it down. A black outfit with mixed textures instantly feels more styled, even if the overall look is simple.
Consider the Occasion
No matter what occasion you’re getting dressed for, there’s always going to be a black summer outfit that fits the vibe. A black cotton midi dress works great for daytime with sneakers or flat sandals, while a black slip dress with a linen blazer and strappy heels can easily take you into the evening for a special occasion or dinner party. It’s all about choosing pieces that breathe, then styling them with ease.
Black Summer Outfit Ideas
Shop the look here.
Black Linen Dress and Gold Accessories
A black linen dress is one of those summer staples that just works. This flowy maxi dress is lightweight, breathable, and so easy to wear. Add a few gold accessories like statement earrings or a chunky chain necklace to warm things up and keep the look summer-ready. You could easily wear this with flat sandals for daytime, or swap in strappy heeled sandals for evening.
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Tailored Shorts and Cotton Tank
This is one of my go-to combos for summer. Pair tan tailored shorts with a simple black tank top for a clean, classic look that still feels modern. It’s an easy way to incorporate black without feeling too heavy, especially when paired with neutral accessories and minimal sandals.
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Slip Dress and Blazer
A black slip dress is a wardrobe staple I wear any time of year. It’s a versatile staple that works perfectly for summer days when you want to look put together with minimal effort. Throw on a structured blazer for cooler evenings or dressier settings. This is a no-fail timeless combo that works with flat slides or sneakers for daytime and slingbacks or low heels for the evening.
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Smocked Dress and Sneakers
Smocked dresses are comfy and flattering, and they’re my secret weapon when it comes to beating the summer heat in New York City. You can go sans bra while still having some level of support with the smocking. I love black summer dresses, don’t you? Pair yours with white or neutral sneakers for a casual, sporty vibe. This outfit is perfect for travel days, casual brunches, or any time you want to feel cute but stay comfortable.
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Silky Pants and Lightweight Top
Silky black pants are a great alternative to shorts or denim when you want to look a little more elevated. Pair them with a breezy tank or short sleeve blouse, then add sandals to keep it light. It’s polished without being too dressy and a great go-to for date night! This all black look is super simple, yet super chic.
Shop the look here.
Stripe Top and Linen Shorts
A striped top is a classic for a reason. It adds just the right amount of visual interest without feeling too bold. I love this one with black shorts for an easy, lightweight outfit that feels styled. On cooler days (or if you just want a little extra something), lay an open black linen button-down on top as a third piece. It adds texture but keeps the look relaxed and casual.
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Elevated Linen
Black wide leg linen pants can be a closet workhorse in your warm-weather wardrobe. There are plenty of ways to wear them, but for a smart casual option that works for the office, try a tan linen vest and of-the-moment mesh ballet flats for a put-together, effortless look. This combo is great for day-to-night dressing, too! Just swap out your sneakers for a heeled sandal and you’re set.
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All White with Black Accessories
Sometimes the easiest way to wear black in summer is not wearing it as your main piece. Try a head to toe white look, and then add in black accessories like sandals, sunglasses, or a trendy handbag. The contrast is crisp and modern, and the outfit stays light and breathable.
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Black Denim Shorts and Ribbed Top
Black denim shorts are a great alternative to classic blue in the summer. Pair them with a ribbed tank and add a lightweight sweater over your shoulders for a third piece moment. Finish with sandals or sneakers depending on the day. A relaxed fit keeps your denim super comfy in the summer heat. This is one of those outfits you’ll find yourself reacting on autopilot!
Shop the look here.
White Trousers and Black Top
For a look that’s equal parts elevated and simple, pair white trousers with a black top. Look for pants in looser fits, then pair them with black sandals and a neutral bag to keep everything clean and balanced. I love this outfit for those in-between summer days when I want to look polished but not overly styled.
