Black is a color that can be found in almost everyone’s wardrobe. However, when it comes time for summer, we often find that people ditch their dark wardrobes and focus on brighter tones for the season—or even all-white outfits. For those of you, like myself, who can’t seem to let go of wearing black year-round, here’s a friendly guide to the best ways to wear it this season without melting away.
The Classic Slip
There are a handful of good wardrobe staples when it comes to summer, and a slip dress is at the top of my list. Loose and simple, the slip dress makes for a comfortable yet classic, staple for the warm weather. Another reason it’s a favorite of mine is its versatility, allowing you to dress it up or down. You could style yours with cool sneakers and a baseball cap to run errands in the morning, then easily switch to heels and a clutch for a night out.
Savette Symmetry Pochette
Frame X Ritz Paris Cotton Trucker Hat
Jenny Bird Florence Earrings
Breezy Shorts
When temperatures start to rise, our hemlines tend to follow suit. Instead of reaching for your tailored pants this season, try a more cropped version. I find that shorts themselves can sometimes feel too casual, so I love the idea of dressing them up with a pair of heels for a nice contrast.
Khaite Johnnie Top
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Citizens of Humanity Cara Pleated Short
Aeyde Daphne Leather Thong Sandals
Coach Empire Carryall Bag 34
A Touch of Lace
In these hotter-than-hot temperatures, the right materials can be your secret weapon to staying cool—and lace is among the top picks to help you get there. The texture and open weave of the fabric are great assets, allowing your body to breathe. Besides the material’s practicality, it is also a great way to add dimension to an all-black outfit and provide visual interest. Plus, it’s perfect for styling—seamlessly transitioning from a casual day look to a formal evening out.
Bananhot Millie Cotton Lace Maxi Dress
Fleur du Mal Le Stretch V-Neck Minidress
Madewell The Vira Bangle Ankle-Wrap Sandal
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Ray-Ban Zaya Bio-Based Sunglasses
DeMellier The Midi New York
The Summer Suit
A suit in summer can seem daunting as we navigate the heat. However, there’s still a way to achieve that professional look without feeling like you’re on the verge of melting. Instead of reaching for trousers, try a skirt or pair of shorts with a higher hemline. Another simple tip I love for blazers in the summer: Push up the sleeves and secure them with a hair tie.
Veronica Beard Sevyn Jacket
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Good American Scuba T-Shirt Bodysuit
Simkhai Payton Mini Wrap Skirt
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Gucci Softbit Maxi Shoulder Bag
Bottega Veneta Astaire Loafer
The Little Black Dress
If you could only have one dress in your entire wardrobe, let it be the little black dress. It’s a timeless staple that will never let you down, no matter the occasion. Even though it’s undoubtedly a year-round piece, I find that the little black dress thrives in the summer months—especially in the form of a shorter silhouette.
Kallmeyer Eloise Mini Dress
Aurate New York Herringbone Bow Earrings
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Jennifer Behr Cruz Headband
The Capri Comeback
Capris have made their return to the streets—though some still haven’t quite welcomed them with open arms. Whichever side you’re on, I would argue that capris are a great piece to have in your summer wardrobe. The cropped style is a great middle ground for when shorts might not work for the right occasion but the idea of trousers is already making you sweat. They’re also incredibly versatile since they can effortlessly go from day to night.
Jardin Des Orangers Cashmere Cardigan
Favorite Daughter The Carrie Pants
Gucci Oval Frame Sunglasses
Verafied Gold Noir Éclair Bag
Vested In Summer
When we think about styling a vest, we likely imagine a three-piece suit—and all those layers. However, summer is the perfect excuse to ditch the blazer and wear the vest on its own. Brands have introduced countlƒess variations of the waistcoat, and there are endless ways to wear it, whether you’re headed to the office or out for drinks with friends.
Posse Exclusive Louis Linen Trousers
Veronica Beard Swing Clutch
Dean Davidson Ipanema Earrings
Bralette
Bras don’t necessarily need to stay hidden during the summer. In this case, bralettes are a great alternative for a top in heat wave-level temperatures. There are also plenty of styles to choose from, whether you prefer lace, cotton, or a ribbed knit (my personal favorite). They’re easy to pack for those warm-weather vacations and perfect to style without a second thought. In other words, they’re a perfect (small) addition to your summer wardrobe.
A.L.C. Jordana Compact Knit Bra
Frame The Silk Organza Skirt
Tory Burch Mini Lee Radziwill Top-Handle Bag
Monica Vinader Tapered Large Hoop Earrings
Buttoned Up
A button-up is a go-to for me in the summer months—and something everyone should have in their wardrobe, even if it’s your boyfriend’s. The beauty of this year-round essential for summer is its endless styling potential. Of course, the sleeves can be rolled up (as they should be), it can be tied around the waist, or worn as an overshirt with a tank top underneath. In my opinion, it’s a polished, classic piece that’s effortlessly chic—no matter how you style it.
Simon Miller Loch Poplin Button Up
Aritzia Babaton Pleated Mid-Thigh Short
Khaite Aimee Kitten Heel Sandal
Proenza Schouler Mini Slide Bag
Summer Sparkler
No, black doesn’t always have to be one-dimensional. Adding a little texture—or shimmer, in this case—can give the hue some life. With sequins, I always prefer a bit of balance. I love pairing a sequin bottom with a simple top, or vice versa, so the sequins can shine on their own.
Rotate Sequined Midi Skirt
Simkhai Signature Estelle Top
Gianvito Rossi Rania Mule 85
Prada Satin Mini-Bag With Crystals
Aurate New York White Sapphire Tennis Earrings
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