Each summer I ask myself ‘how to style a black summer dress’, as wearing black is one of my favourite things to do! There seems to be an unwritten rule against wearing dark colours in summer, along with the myth that black will cause you to overheat, which simply isn’t true.
Black clothes are actually more cooling than white, believe it or not, as the colour absorbs the heat. So, don’t be put off by the myths and wear your black dress with confidence this summer.
To help you get inspired I have put together a black summer dress style guide full of easy tips and tricks to create chic and put-together outfits.
How to style a black summer dress
Style a black summer dress with black strappy sandals, tortoiseshell sunglasses and a printed pouch bag for a chic and trendy look this summer. To dress the look up further add elegant statement earrings and heels for a sizzling date look.
Here are seven EASY ways to style your black summer dress, including pictures for inspiration…
1. Pair your black summer dress with a printed bag and a cropped jacket
Accessorise your black summer dress with strappy sandals and a printed bag for a pop of detail in an otherwise simple look.
In the above image I styled a bodycon black summer midi dress with two bags, to show how adding playful print can elevate your dress in seconds.
In the evening pair your dress with a bright cropped jacket to create a striking look. Cropped jackets create a trendy silhouette and are perfect for slipping on as the sun sets and the air turns cooler.
2. Wear a floral printed kimono or shawl with your black summer dress for a chic flare
Spice up your black summer dress by pairing it with a printed floral or patterned kimono style cover up, or with a shawl to add a touch of dramatic whimsy to the outfit.
In the above image I styled a tasselled slip-on kimono with my black dress, for a fashionable twist on the simple garment. As you can tell I’m loving this ‘lady of the manor’ look!
Working from home this summer? You may enjoy this article: 10 SUMMER Work From Home Outfits – Style Guide
3. Add staple summery accessories to elevate your black summer dress
A super easy way to dress up a black summer dress is to add chic accessories that never go out of style.
Pair your dress with tortoiseshell sunglasses for a trendy finish, and add a printed headscarf to your hair for a pop of detail, as styled in the above image on the right.
Alternatively slip on a sun hat before stepping out in your black summer dress, to create dimension in your silhouette. Hats are a great way to make a dress look stylish in seconds, without you needing to spend much effort worrying what to wear!
What shoes go with a black summer dress?
Black summer dresses pair well with many types of shoes, as the colour is so versatile. Pair a casual black summer dress with sneakers for a laid back city-chic style. Alternatively add flare to a sophisticated black summer dress with a pair of chunky heels.
1. White sneakers for a laid back trendy look
Rocking a pair of white sneakers with a short black summer dress is an easy way to create a laid-back weekend style. This look is particularly cool, as the juxtaposition of the sneakers to the dress gives off an effortless vibe.
2. Chunky high heels for a sexy, elegant style
Pairing a black summer dress with chunky high heels is a great way to dress up your outfit for a summer evening date. Don’t be afraid to match your black dress with heels of another colour, as styled in the above image on the right.
Match with red heels and a red lip for a striking look.
3. Pointed toe block heels for a feminine, timeless finish
Pointed toe block heels are so feminine and classic looking. When paired with a short black summer dress they look so chic and add a vintage twist to the outfit.
Give this girlish style a go for yourself and pair with a matching black clutch bag for an evening out, as styled in the above image.
How can I make my black dress look more summery?
Make a black dress look more summery by pairing it with barely-there sandals, tortoiseshell shades and a wide brimmed black sun hat for a chic, timeless style. Add a rattan bag for a trendy twist.
A note
Thank you for reading this ‘How to Style a Black Summer Dress’ guide – I hope you now feel confident to style your black dresses this summer!
For more QUICK fashion tips, check out…
Related articles
10 SUMMER Work From Home Outfits – Style Guide
How to Style a White Summer Dress – Summer/Winter
How to Style a Midi Dress in Summer
Lorna is a footwear geek and the founder of Wearably Weird. She created a YouTube channel in 2021 for fellow footwear fanatics, dedicated to detail-rich footwear reviews and info. She has a fashion media qualification (awarded in 2011).