Bright hues and soft neutrals are usually the colours that go hand-in-hand with summer but don’t forget about classic black. While black is usually the kind of colour that’s ideal for the moodier hues that go with autumn/winter dressing, it still definitely has a place in summer as a go-to option when you want a sleek look. As the winner when it comes to understated, versatile hues, black can still underpin a lot of your summer looks, but it just takes a little consideration when it comes to fabric, style and silhouettes. Here are a few of my tips for wearing black in summer.
Opt for natural fabrics
Chic as it may be, there’s no getting around the fact that black does attract heat. So, if you’re going to wear it in warmer temperatures you need to stick with breathable fabrics so you don’t overheat! Think cotton, linen and silk fabrics which will breathe, but also are the kind of lightweight fabrics that are perfect for withstanding a day spent in the sun at the height of an Aussie summer.
Pair it back with colourful accessories
Head-to-toe black can seem a little heavy in summer so it’s often a good idea to incorporate some contrasting colours in the mix. Whether it’s a pop of colour in the form of a handbag, a sandal or a pair of sunglasses, you can use your accessories to lift the black in your outfit and provide some visual interest with black providing the perfect backdrop.
Work it against other hues
Use black pieces as your statement feature, whether it’s a great skirt or a classic pair of wide leg trousers, and pair it with lighter or brighter colours. Inserting a little colour relief works well to make your ensemble feel a little more summery, but maintains the ultra sleek feel of a dark hue.
Add traditionally summery textures
Adding pieces such as a raffia basket bag or a pair of espadrilles or a straw het helps lighten the appearance of black, making it a bit more summery. You can still maintain the sleek feel of an all black ensemble but adding some textural elements helps to offset all the black which can visually look a bit heavy in summer.
Do you wear black in summer? What are your favourite ways to wear it?