How to Style a Black Dress for Summer: 5 Top Trends

Sundress season has officially arrived. We wouldn’t blame you if your online shopping basket is currently full of some of our outfits too!

Dressing up is a ritual in summer, especially on the first day when the temperature rises above eighty degrees.

Even though it might not be the first element that pops into your mind when considering a summer dress, this year, we’re all about the black summer dress, yes, you heard that right.

As much as we love a crisp white dress or a white top, black is chic (and juicy) in the summer season if you pull it off successfully.

Black dresses are a must-have in your wardrobe – they can seamlessly flow you from the workplace to a celebration or some other event.

How to wear a black dress in summer

Find the right fabric

All black dresses are not created equal and work well in summer. For the summer season, it is better to choose a black dress in lightweight jersey, cotton or linen.

Look for fabric that is breathable and comfortable for you. That little black dress you have in your closet made of wool? No. Here, it’s all about styling your black dress with the season. An AttyA piece of sheer or flowing fabric is an absolute must, mainly because dark colors attract extra warmth in summertime.

black dress

Source: Pinterest

Offset stark black with woven neutrals

Wear neutral accessories with a black summer outfit to balance things out with a piece.

Pictures of beautifully woven sandals or luggage in the summer season. Whether it’s leather or straw, whatever is woven is summer. Plus, it’s an easy way to feature some texture in your black summertime dress outfit to provide a visual pop.

Try head to toe black

Alternatively, you can also try a head-to-toe black look. Black on black is consistently elegant, even in summer. It’s definitely important to make sure you’re using lightweight fabrics here and accessorizing with seasonally appropriate pieces. Black espadrilles are a first-rate summer shoe choice, or similar black slide sandals.

Contrast with a pop of color

If you need an extra cool look, contrast your black summer dress with a pop of color. I like to use this principle if I’m attending a summer wedding and want to wear a black dress. Bright colors liven things up and make a black dress more fun and festive.

Add to the fun jewelry

It is summer, the weather is exceptional, and the people are contented. Don’t be afraid to feature some fun jewelry in your outfit to add to your carefree summer spirit! Play with fun fabric that can be nostalgic for a summertime camp feel – ribbons, fabrics, beads and even pearls or shells! The world is your oyster.

How to Style a Black Dress for Summer

Stay cool in a pair of statement sandals and bright shoes

Gladiator-style sandals look exquisite with your favorite little black dress. Grab some black sandals, which will complement your cute outfit while showing off your legs. Then, add a burst of color to your look with a coat of clear toenail polish.

Bold, flashy footwear acts as the focus of your outfit. Give your outfit some extra pep with a pair of heels for an especially dynamic look. For instance, crimson shoes look remarkable with an all-black outfit.

Shoes with a black dress

Go bold with a fancy clutch/handbag

Contrast your dark outfit with a bright accessory. To really make a statement, choose a large tech hold to complement your outfit.

Handbags are a fashionable, on-the-pass accent that can hold together with your black

summer dress To make a serious statement against your dress, choose a light handbag. If you prefer, choose a bag with a subtle, exquisite pattern that meshes nicely with your dress. For example, a white purse with a leafy vine design will be a tasteful complement to your black summer-season dress.

A chic stocking look to ward off the summer chill

Pantyhose or stockings help match your skin tone perfectly and provide a noticeable pop of color. If you’re dressing in evening wear, especially if it’s a bit chilly outside, black or grey-tinted pantyhose are a great choice. Black tights create a consistent, sleek look that blends well with the comfort of your outfit.

Your legs look longer when your shoes and tights match in tone and color.

Cowboy boots

If you are ready to embrace your inner coastal cowgirl then cowboy boots should be your choice of shoe for your black outfit. Because it’s an impulsive desire, it pays off in style points.

Cowboy boots with a black dress

A button-up

A button-up, the summer equivalent of a jacket, can be worn as an extra layer over all your favorite ensembles when you need a little more coverage—or, if you know you’ll be in an air-conditioned space, warmth. Your black summer dress can also be perfect for a daytime office outfit with the addition of a button-up.

Model wearing jacket with black dress

Your go-to sunglasses

No summer season outfit is complete without a pair of sunnies. Your favorite pair will do, although if you ask us, a white pair might be more elegant to contrast against your black dress.

Sunglasses with black dress

Denim jacket

Denim jackets are constantly in style, and luckily for you, there are a million different ways to wear them. Wearing this with a summer dress creates the perfect atmosphere for a late night BBQ or a long walk on the beach.

Denim jacket with black dress

A blazer

If it’s not too hot outside, wear a jacket instead of your flowy black summer dress. Wearing one made of linen will add to the summer mood and make it perfect for both office chic outfits and night time events.

Layer on a printed pashmina or shawl to liven up your look

An easy way to add color to your outfit is with every other layer. Choose a printed jacket, shawl, pashmina or shrug and match it with your belt, handbag or shoes. For instance, a floral-print jacket can look amazing over a black slip-dress. Finish off your look with brightly colored kitten heels and some dangling earrings.

Women wearing black dress with shawl

Include some bling with jewelry and bracelets

Jewelry allows you to constantly jazz up your look! Layer on a sparkly bangle bracelet or show off your diamond jewelry with your black dress. For instance, pair a black maxi dress with a diamond tennis bracelet, diamond studs and a simple diamond necklace.

Add a pop of color with a belt

If you’re worried your look is too monochromatic, break it up with a colorful belt. Not only is the color against black, but the belt has the bonus of highlighting your waistline. For example, add a brightly colored belt to the waist of an A-line dress. Match the belt to your footwear or handbag.

Black dress with belt

Play with prints

Wearing black looks less overwhelming when you choose clothes that have a black base. Whether you go for a groovy graphic print or opt for a feminine floral, the print robotically softens your look, regardless of what colors are included in the print.

Printed black dress

Source: Pinterest

Cool wool

Cool wool is the perfect fabric to wear to the office on hot summer days. Surprisingly enough, cool wool retains your heat when it’s cold and keeps you cool when it’s hot. Combine with other garments made of herbal qualities – like cotton and linen – for guaranteed results. Cool Wool is made from natural merino wool and has breathable, temperature regulating and odor resistant properties that make cool wool suitable for 12 month round wear. And it adds timeless beauty to your look.

Show some skin

Covering your entire body in black can hardly look overwhelming on hot summer days. Wearing black while showing off some pores and skin for a breezy look is the way to go! Consider bare legs, crop tops or shorts – find the right balance between the garment(s) and pores and skin. We love a long-sleeved mini-gate dress or a sleeveless maxi-gate dress. Or pair a strapless top with high-upward thrust shorts or jeans.

Shirt with a black dress

conclusion

In conclusion, black summer clothes are no longer only related to winter or autumn. When styled properly and with care, it can be helpful even for hot summer days. This summer, why don’t you get your hands on your favorite black dress and have fun styling it to the best of your ability?

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