If there’s one colour I’m going to wear on almost a daily basis it’s black. That’s probably why I find summer one of the tricker months outfit-wise. Historically, I’ve found myself buying bright colours and styles that I wouldn’t typically reach for and, surprise surprise, I end up not feeling like myself at all. I don’t know why I’ve been making life so difficult for myself—higher temperatures doesn’t have to mean giving up black items. In fact, black dresses are one of the best, most versatile pieces you can have in your summer collection.
The trick is in the choice of fabric and cut. Avoid synthetic materials and opt for breezy linens and cottons to stay cool in warm weather, and focus on silhouettes that are breathable and relaxed — think straight-cut linen shift dresses or voluminous cotton styles.
Then there’s the styling. As we all know, black can be a great base to use as a backdrop to play with colour and texture, whether you opt for a vibrant hue shoe or bag, or lean into the summer mood by introducing raffia accessories. But you don’t have to get into colour at all—many of the influencer looks I’ve found embrace the sleek minimalism of all-black looks, pairing classic black dresses with understated sandals and sunglasses.
Feeling inspired to join the black dress in summer movement? Scroll on to see my pick of eight of the best outfits courtesy of some of my favourite fashion people.
8 Black Dress Summer Outfits That Always Look Chic 1. Broderie Anglaise Dress + Mesh Flats Style Notes: You may typically think of a broderie anglaise dress as a white style, but this look proves there are incredibly chic black versions available, too. Keep yours looking modern by pairing with one of the more controversial trending shoes, the mesh flat.
Shop the Look:
Phase Eight
Milly Linen Dress
Reformation
Mini Rosetta Shoulder Bag
2. Scoop-Neck Dress + T-Shirt + Flip-Flops Style Notes: This is the kind of outfit that’s perfect for taking a summer dress and making it more city appropriate. I enjoy the idea of layering a long dress over a classic white tee to create a look that feels really fresh and contemporary.
Shop the Look:
& Other Stories
Crewneck T-Shirt
Massimo Dutti
Midi Dress With Low-Cut Back
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara Thong Leather and Jelly Sandals
COS
Hand-Woven Tote Bag – Raffia
An oversized, slouchy raffia bag has become the new must-have tote.
3. Mini Dress + Cowboy Boots Style Notes: Londoners in particular have really been backing the boots -and-dress combo and I’m sold. There’s just something about a black minidress and a classic Western boot just feels right.
Shop the Look:
ALIGNE
Lyra Linen Mini Dress
If you’re going to wear black in summer, opting for a linen version is a great idea.
Free People
Finn Tall Western Boots
SAINT LAURENT EYEWEAR
Oval-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
4. Linen Maxi + Slides Style Notes: Sometimes, simple is best. Follow this example and opt for the beauty of understated minimalism by going for the combination of long linen dress and sleek slides.
Shop the Look:
ME+EM
Slub Jersey Smock Bodice Maxi Dress
& Other Stories
Leather Slides
MANGO
Natural Fibre Handbag
5. Puffy Sleeve Dress + Mules Style Notes: I’m a big fan of puff-sleeve dresses but going for the silhouette doesn’t have to mean going for a bright summer colour. Keep it sleek by opting for a black version with low-heeled mules .
Shop the Look:
DÔEN
Ischia Shirred Organic Cotton-Voile Midi Dress
Manolo Blahnik
Maysale 50 Suede Mules
Yes they’re an investment, but you’ll love them forever.
MANGO
Thin-Frame Sunglasses
6. Mini Dress + Oversized Blazer + Heels Style Notes: There’s a reason a LBD is a wardrobe staple. Give yours an evening spin for summer by pairing with an oversized blazer (to keep the evening chill at bay) and you’re favourite pair of heels, and you’re done.
Shop the Look:
ZARA
Strapless Dress With Bow
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Bea Oversized Cady Blazer
JENNIFER CHAMANDI
Vittorio 105 Elaphe Point-Toe Slingback Pumps
7. Slip Dress + T-Bar Heels Style Notes: A black slip dress is one of the most versatile styles you can own. Dress down by day by pairing with a cropped cardigan and flat sandals, or elevate with a great necklace and heels.
Shop the look:
Joseph
Silk Satin Clea Dress
KHAITE
Mia Leather Pumps 2
These aren’t a want for me, they’re a need.
Annika Inez
Sterling Silver Sloping Pendant Necklace
8. Beach Dress + Basket Bag Style Notes: This is summer after all, so why not give your black dress the ultimate warm-weather treatment with a basket bag and a silk hair scarf for a look that loans itself to both holidays and home soil.
Shop the Look:
Nobodys Child
Black Marina Midi Dress
LOEWE
+ Paula’s Ibiza Punch Hole Small Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote
There are so many basket totes to choose from, but fashion insiders all swear by the Loewe styles.
Hobbs
Nyla Leather Sandals
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