Christian Dior said it best: “You can wear black at any time. You can wear it at any age. You may wear it for almost any occasion.” Just because the temperatures are rising doesn’t mean we’ll be giving up our all-black-everything way of dressing anytime soon. Leave bright colors to the flowers and let these seven style mavens show you how to wear the darkest shade throughout the warmest months.
OPT FOR BREATHABLE MATERIALS
First things first: Makes sure whatever you wear has some ventilation. And lucky for you, sheer fabrics (in addition to having magical cooling and sweat-wicking powers) are hugely trendy right now.
Get the look: Eileen Fisher dress ($180); Tory Burch bag ($495); Soludos slides ($99)
STICK TO THE BASICS
Don’t let your preconceived notions of colorful summer dressing give you a mental block. A black tank and flowy skirt works just as well as the floral version.
Get the look: Forever 21 top ($9); Talbots skirt ($109); Vince Camuto heels ($100)
MIX UP THE SILHOUETTES
Yes, you’ll want to skimp on fabric in the heat (hello, miniskirt), but don’t go overboard with a tiny bottom and a tiny top. Pair smaller pieces with something loose, like a lightweight sweater, sleeves scrunched up.
Get the look: Splendid sweater ($145); The Kooples skirt ($216); ED Ellen DeGeneres sandals ($89)
TRY THE COMFORT ROUTE
If you're ever unsure of styling black on black, there's no better place to start than athleisure. Spend the day in a loose-fitting tank and joggers with sandals, then throw on a moto jacket and cool flats for a night out.
Get the look: Everlane tank top ($28); Elie Tahari sweatpants ($128)
PLAY WITH TEXTURE AND DETAIL
Feeling bored? Spice up a monochromatic palette by giving your outfit an element of surprise. A logo tee and tasseled pants should do the trick.
Get the look: Balmain T-shirt ($255); River Island pants ($80)
Related: 8 Fun Ways to Wear a Black T-Shirt
LET YOUR ACCESSORIES STEAL THE SPOTLIGHT
If you don’t have a piece of clothing piece with an interesting detail, then take the opportunity to rock a statement accessory — like a conversation-starting pair of gladiator sandals.
Get the look: Eloquii dress ($100); Steve Madden sandals ($90)
WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T OVERDO IT
But remember: A sleek LBD looks casual and cool when you keep all other elements simple. Thin-strapped sandals, classic sunnies and (of course) your cell phone are the only accessories you really ever need.
Get the look: Reformation dress ($178); Ancient Greek Sandals sandals ($250)
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