The fashion set’s eternal love affair with the colour black is no secret. And despite how many times a new colour trend comes along, nothing will ever beat the effortless chic feel of an all-black outfit.
Whether you’re heading to work or out for drinks with friends, this single shade transcends day-to-night dressing. Not to mention the practicality of head-to-toe black. From sweat marks to coffee stains, the inky hue can hide a multitude of sins and almost any fashion faux pas. Even on holiday, it’s the answer for dressing up to dinner when you’ve got nothing but after-sun slathered on your face and chlorine-soaked hair.
Essentially, it’s the shortcut to easy summer dressing. And isn’t that what we all really want – one less thing to think about in the morning? So, for outfit inspiration on how to wear an all-black ensemble in summer, look no further. Below, find seasonally appropriate looks to recreate now, plus all the deets on what shoes to wear with your head-to-toe black outfit.
Everyone’s clicking on…
Shorts co-ord + heeled flip flops
Heeled flip flops are widely considered to be the shoe of the summer. We love how the minimal silhouette easily adds a touch of formality to an ensemble, including this one. From brunch with the girls to more casual pub drinks, this all-black outfit nails the smart casual, stylish without trying too hard brief.
Summer dress + boots
Pairing a dress and boots has been one of our fave combos this szn for its masculine vs feminine contrast. Working just as well at a festival as it does in the city, simply swap knee-highs for more breathable cowboy boots or ankle boots if it’s a particularly hot summer’s day.
Mini skirt + loafers
A black mini skirt and loafers nail the dark academia aesthetic. Opt for a pleated skirt and white ankle socks to amp up the preppiness. If you’re in need of just a light layer, look no further than a nylon or satin bomber jacket.
Statement blouse + flip flops
From puff shoulders to Peter Pan collars to peplum hems, there’s no shortage of statement summer blouses around right now. Dress yours down with a simple pair of black trousers and casual flip flops. Comfy and cool!
Midi skirt + flat sandals
All-black can be a failsafe for a smart work outfit. While you might need to worry less about staying cool thanks to your office air-con, navigating your commute is an entirely different story. Rely on light, sheer fabrics and loose silhouettes like this blouse and pleated midi combo. These gladiator-esque sandals have enough structure to feel formal, while still looking stylish.
Bermuda shorts + tan kitten heels
Okay, okay, I know we said head-to-toe black outfits, *but* switching out black shoes for a brown colourway is an instant way to look expensive. Especially when you coordinate the rest of your accessories and sling a brown shoulder bag over your arm. Très chic!
Linen trousers + brown trainers
Similarly, brown fashion trainers, despite their casual vibe, still have a luxe feel when paired with an all-black outfit, like this pretty top and wide-leg trousers. The key to nailing the look is to stick to a second neutral hue. This street style star has also matched her bag and headscarf, opting for chocolate suede designs.
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Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
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