How to wear black in the summer—7 easy monochrome outfits to recreate

While it’s only natural to gravitate toward bold prints and vivid colours during this time of year, we’re going to show you how to wear black in the summer. Summertime is synonymous with colour—the oceans’ richness, the sky’s brightness, the sunset’s golden hour hues. But for some, especially for the city dwellers living with an artist’s edge, wearing black in the summer is as natural as throwing on a romantic floral dress. The key to embracing black during the warmer months? Experimenting with fabrics, textures, and silhouettes.

Besides, wearing black in the summertime doesn’t mean you’re forgoing all that the season has to offer. If anything, you’re just going the monochromatic route. On the weekend, swap your white poplin skirt for a black option from Aritzia—it looks chic teamed with an embroidered lace blouse and raffia tote bag. Wondering how to toughen up your go-to essentials for beach trips and lavish destinations? Easy—eschew the printed sarong, natural-coloured raffia hat, and bikini set in favor of their black counterparts. There are plenty of ways to incorporate the no-colour-colour this season, whether you’re having a busy workweek or planning a Friday date night. Below, seven all-black summer outfit ideas for every occasion, ahead.

Picnic in the Park

A fitted tank, especially one cast in black, from Flore Flore and pull-on trousers from Mango, is an easy way to elevate a casual ensemble. Amplify the look with designer accessories from Toteme and The Row.

Weekend Warrior

Embrace the essence of the season by pairing summer’s coveted textures together in one look. Embroidered lace, linen, raffia, and a jelly sandal join forces for effortless off-duty appeal.

Workin’ Gal

For the office, swap your wool blazer and straight-leg pants for an oversized black shirt from Skall Studio and Bermuda shorts (they are currently trending!) from Mango. Dragon Diffusion’s woven Japan tote will store a laptop, wallet, keys, and a desk lunch.

linen-blend suit bermuda shorts

Au Revoir

If there’s one thing we all look forward to the moment warmer weather arrives on the scene, it’s the potential to plot a much-needed vacation. Showcase an air of mystery on the beach by wearing all black.

Ludo toe ring strappy flat sandal

Business Casual

Business codes have come a long way from the boxy office wear of the past. Find feminine touch with a cinched waist linen blazer and matching pants from Alex Mill, ideal for both work and a dinner meeting afterwards.

Soho waisted linen blazer

Date Night

Silver-embellished fashion-forward accessories are an easy way to update a date night look. Rohé’s off-the-shoulder maxidress sets the foundation—anything will look good paired with it. Add whimsy and charm with a beaded bucket bag and strappy kitten-heel sandals.

off-the-shoulder ruched gathered stretch-jersey maxi dress

Pilates Princess

The time is now for Hot Girl Walks, morning Reformer classes, and weekends spent unwinding with a soundbath session. Sport all black on the way there with biker shorts and a strappy sports bra. Accessorize with Loulou de Saison’s roomy cardigan.