Back when I was younger, I used to think black in the summer was totally off-limits. In my mind, black clothes belonged to the colder months. Summer was reserved for white linen, bright colors, and anything that screamed “vacation.” But honestly? I couldn’t have been more wrong. Black is timeless, effortlessly chic, and completely summer-approved when styled the right way.
Whether you’re reaching for an easy breezy maxi or a little black sundress, there are so many ways to make this classic color work for warm-weather days. If you’re struggling to style your black dress in summer without feeling like you’re melting, here are my easy tips on how to wear a black dress in summer.
How to Wear a Black Dress in Summer
Wear the Right Fabric
Not all black dresses are created equal and work well in the summer. For the hot summer months, I prefer a black dress in a lightweight jersey, cotton, or linen fabric.
When wearing a black dress in summer, look for fabrics that are breathable and comfortable for you. That LBD you have hanging in your closet made from wool? Not a great option! The key here is to make your black dress seasonably appropriate. An airy or flow fabric is an absolute must, especially since dark colors attract more heat in the summer.
favorite black dresses
Offset Stark Black with Woven Neutrals
I like to wear neutral accessories with black summer dresses to balance things out a bit. You can absolutely wear brown and tan with black, and in the summer it also helps soften the black.
Woven sandals or bags work wonderfully in the summer. Whether that’s with leather or straw, woven anything is quintessentially summer. Plus, it’s an easy way to add in some texture to also provide visual interest to your black summer dress outfit.
Try Head to Toe Black
Alternatively, you can also try a head-to-toe black look. Black on black is always chic, even in the summer. It’s really important to make sure you’re wearing lightweight fabrics and accessorizing with seasonally appropriate pieces here. Black espadrilles are a great summer shoe choice, or black slide sandals like these.
Contrast with a Pop of Color
If you want more of a bold look, contrast your black summer dress with a pop of color. I personally love utilizing this principle if I’m attending a summer wedding and want to wear a black dress. Bright colors liven things up a bit and make the black look a little more fun and celebratory.
Opt for Gold Accessories
When in doubt, go for gold. Black and gold is a timeless combo and is so chic without trying too hard. Whether it’s chunky hoops, a bold cuff, or strappy gold sandal, metallic accents pop beautifully against a black dress.
Black Dress Outfit Ideas
Black Dress | Black Sandals | Gold Necklace | Shell Clutch (similar)
If you’re heading somewhere a little fancier but still want to keep things summer-appropriate, this look is for you. A black linen maxi dress is the perfect blank canvas. Pair it with strappy black sandals to keep things sleek, then add a gold clutch for a statement. It’s simple, but elevated, and proves that you don’t need bold colors to make a statement.
Black Smocked Dress (similar) | Adidas Samba Sneakers
Black Dress with Sneakers
My favorite way to style a black dress for the summer in the city is just like this – with sneakers. This smocked midi dress is lightweight and comfortable, and with sneakers, I can walk the entire day while doing errands or shopping.
Black Midi Dress (similar) | Gold Pleated Heels | Clutch (similar)
Black Dress for Summer Wedding
If you’re looking for a black dress to wear for a summer wedding, look for a midi or maxi length. So that the black doesn’t feel so drab for a summer fete, punch it up with some metallic accessories like these heels, and add a fun pop of color with a bag or some bright lipstick.
Black Slip Dress | Black Blazer
Black Slip Dress and Low Heels
There’s something about a black slip dress that just works. It’s sleek, timeless, and can be dressed up or down in seconds. For this look, I kept things classic with low heels (chic and comfortable) and a layered black blazer, which can be worn over your shoulders, for those cooler summer nights. It’s an easy go-to for dinner al fresco or a night out when you want to feel put-together.
Black Midi Dress (similar) | Sweater (similar) | Sneakers
Black Dress & Neutral Accessories
You can never go wrong with a black dress and classic neutrals. It’s the kind of combo that feels pulled together but is casual enough to wear every day. Pair an easy, flowy black dress with flat leather sandals and tie a lightweight knit around your shoulders as a third piece to finish the look. For a bag, you can either go with a black bag like I did here, or wear a woven clutch to add texture. It’s an easy outfit to wear on vacation, to lunch, or while exploring your favorite city.
5 Responses
Looking very beautiful in this black dress.
Thank you for these ideas! A black dress is so timeless, and your tips will help keep it feeling fresh
Great tips! A black dress in summer can be so chic and versatile. Love the idea of pairing it with light accessories and breathable fabrics to stay cool.
What size dissh dress are you wearing? We are about the same build and it’s on super sale. Says it runs big but the website makes it look like one could size down two or three sizes.
I’d definitely size down at least one size! I’m usually a size 4/6 and this is a 4… I think I could have done a 2. Hope that helps