As temperatures climb, our go-to is usually to go for airy whites and bright shades but there's something irrepressibly stylish about picking to wear black during summer. Though black is more commonly linked with cooler weather, style-savvy stars show that summer black outfits are just as new, exciting, and becoming. From flowy sundresses to edgy co-ords and lightweight tailoring, these styles reinterpret how to style black in summer without losing comfort or cool.
Here, we’ve curated 10 stunning celebrity-inspired black outfits that are perfect for warm weather, each with thoughtful styling that makes black feel light, elevated, and anything but basic.
1. Black Silk Slip Dress
Hailey Bieber was seen turning heads in a sleek black silk slip dress during her outing in Los Angeles. The lightweight silk and midi length made it flowy yet light, while slicked-back bun, strappy sandals, and gold pieces of jewelry completed it with an iconic off-duty model look. This is an ideal summer evening outfit that needs little effort but gives oodles of elegance. Go for skimpily-heeled shoes and a minimalist clutch to let the dress shine.
2. Black Linen Co-ords
Zendaya's black cropped linen top and coordinating high-waisted shorts are the epitome of cool without trying. Caught out on a summer walkabout in Rome, she teamed the pair with white trainers and oversized shades. The linen makes it light, and the co-ord is easy to style.You can opt for natural fibers such as linen or cotton in black to remain cool during summer.
3. Black Sheer Maxi Dress
Only Rihanna can make black sheer layers this glam for summer. She styled a sheer black maxi over high-waisted briefs and matching bralette, demonstrating that skin-revealing silhouettes can be bold and tasteful. Her chunky gold accessories and lace-up sandals took the look to the next level. Layer sheer pieces over simple undergarments for a wearable yet daring summer look.
4. Black Romper
Kendall’s black belted romper, worn while vacationing in the south of France, is one of the most wearable black summer outfits we’ve seen. She completed the look with slide sandals, a woven tote, and slim cat-eye sunglasses. Rompers are a great way to wear black playfully, choosing tailored shapes for a polished twist will really look stunning.
5. Black Shirt Dress
Meghan Markle sported a sleeveless black shirt dress to a summer polo game, demonstrating the sophistication that black can achieve during the day. The button-down cut and belted waist formed a flattering shape, and her black sunglasses and nude heels provided a touch of refinement. A black shirt dress is both practical and stylish, perfect for both informal and semi-formal occasions.
6. Black Cargo Pants and Crop Top
Dua Lipa's tough street look consisted of high-waisted black cargo shorts and a black cropped tank, topped with bold accessories and sneakers. This look is part comfort and part attitude, perfect for concerts, city outings, or hot summer nights out. Top with whimsical accessories, such as a neon purse or colored shades to cut the single-color scheme.
7. Black One-Shoulder Dress
For a rooftop summer party, Gigi Hadid opted for a ruched side and asymmetrical hem one-shoulder black dress. Paired with minimal heels and beach waves, the look is perfect in its proportions between sexy and summery. Reveal some skin with one-shoulder or off-the-shoulder pieces to make black feel light.
8. Black Tank & Wide-Leg Trousers
Rosie demonstrated what elegance black can have in the heat with a black tank inside flowing black wide-leg pants. The outfit was accessorized with strappy sandals, gold hoops, and a slick bun. It's a wonderful day-to-night ensemble concept. Counteract structure with flow, tight tops and loose pants make black less hot.
9. Boho Black Maxi Dress
Vanessa's black tiered maxi dress adorned with lace trim and spaghetti straps was a summer music festival fantasy. She accessorized it with round sunglasses, ankle boots, and stacked necklaces, adding her boho signature touch. Add texture such as lace, embroidery, or crocheted details to add depth to black summer outfits.
10. Black Halter Neck Top and Skirt
Bella shocked in a black halter crop top outfit and midi skirt ensemble while out in NYC. Her slicked-back bun, tiny shoulder bag, and kitten heels transformed this look into a sophisticated and chic one, perfect for balmy evening excursions. Keep it monochrome with body-hugging pieces to make the body appear longer and keep it cool and trendy.
Final Thoughts
Summer in black doesn't have to be uncomfortable or out of season. With airy materials, considerate silhouettes, and eye-catching accessories, these black summer ensembles prove that you can indulge in your dark-side closet without compromising on seasonality.
Whether you prefer edgy street style or flowy femme looks, how to dress black for summer is all about contrast, proportion, and attitude. Don't be afraid, own black this summer and make it your most fashionable one yet.