How to wear black in the summer

Here’s how to style it, even on the hottest days of the year

Cut Out Twist Front Midi Dress, £36, Warehouse (H&M)

One of the most popular colours to wear, black is a go-to hue for many of us and it’s not hard to see why.

It’s seriously chic, practical and goes with everything else in your wardrobe. So why is that, as soon as the summer hits, convention dictates we ditch darker shades in favour of bright colours and stark whites?

If your dedication to a gothic-inspired wardrobe daren’t falter in the face of fiery temperatures, you’re not alone because, for some of us, there’s nothing we’d rather wear than head-to-toe black, no matter what season it is.

That being said, the scorching heat does call for more consideration when it comes to acing summer dressing in the ubiquitous shade.

Choose your fabric wisely

Sleeveless Blouse, £8.99, H&M

This might seem like a given but wearing black really does start with the right fabrics. When the temperatures soar, the last thing you want is to wear anything too heavy or clingy, like leather, as it will quickly become uncomfortable.

Instead, opt for materials like cotton, linen or lightweight finishes like broderie anglaise that will keep you looking and feeling cool.

Show some skin

Basic Culottes, £17.99, Zara

No, we’re not suggesting you go to work in a mini skirt everyday, but flashing a bit of shoulder or leg really will ensure that your all-black outfit looks summer ready.

A shorter hemline that sits on or just above the knee will give black a more seasonal edge while trousers or jeans should be cropped above the ankle.

Alternatively, a feminine off-the-shoulder top or a simple strappy black dress will be the saving grace of your hot weather wardrobe.

Prints charming

Cut Out Twist Front Midi Dress, £36, Warehouse

If you’re the kind of person that prefers to wear black regardless of the temperature, opting for printed items can help to add some variety to your look and put a summery spin on otherwise unseasonal pieces.

Even better, prints that sit on a black background, particularly smaller ones, are much easier to pull off and can be worn just as you would a plain dress or pair of trousers.

Accessorise in style

Straw Circle Bag, £49, & Other Stories

True black lovers will want to resist the urge to accessorise their outfits with bursts of colour and rightly so.

Instead, opt for seasonal accessories like a straw bag, sunglasses and sleek metallic jewellery in silver or gold.

Knotted Leather Sandals, £89, Cos

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