The 2025 Way to Wear All Black This Summer

woman wearing black maxi dress and sunglasses

(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

Wearing all black in the middle of summer might sound counterintuitive, but in 2025, it’s a deliberate styling choice—and one that looks especially elevated when done right. Think of it less as moody and more as minimalist sophistication. The key this season is to lean into texture and silhouette over bold color. Sheer mesh tops, satin midi skirts, and gauzy cotton pieces keep the look seasonally appropriate while maintaining a rich, tonal depth.

If you’re wearing black head to toe, contrast becomes your best friend. Play with proportions like pairing oversize tailored shorts with a structured corset top or an airy off-the-shoulder blouse with slouchy linen trousers. A mix of sharp tailoring and soft, undone pieces gives the monochrome palette a sense of ease that feels right for warm-weather dressing.

Accessories are also doing the heavy lifting this summer. Instead of defaulting to black shoes and bags, elevate your look with metallic sandals, tortoiseshell frames, or a raffia bag for a hit of texture. Even subtle choices like a dainty anklet or oversize gold hoops can break up the monochrome without compromising the overall sleek aesthetic.

Last, don’t underestimate the power of a summer LBD—especially when styled with a fashion-editor slant. A strapless knit version worn with kitten-heel mules and vintage-inspired sunglasses reads polished for the city. Meanwhile, a breezy tiered black sundress with chunky fisherman sandals is giving effortless coastal energy. All black in the summer? It’s not just doable—it’s dominating.

See our favorite ways to wear all black this summer below and shop the key pieces along the way.

woman wearing black strapless maxi dress with leather belt

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

A simple long black dress, yes. But a simple long black dress with a sleek belt, YES.

woman wearing black pedal pushers and black top

(Image credit: @saraloura)

Pedal pushers are back, and this is how you style them.

woman wearing black crop top and black maxi skirt

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Pack this all-black duo on your summer vacation.

woman wearing black flare pants and black top

(Image credit: @fredrika_ekerot)

Laid-back yet totally chic all at the same time.

woman wearing black maxi dress and sunglasses

(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

It's all about the accessories here that make this all-black ensemble look super elevated.

woman wearing black tight dress and cardigan with flip flops

(Image credit: @sabinasocol)

We're always here for an LBD moment, and we especially love the oversize cardigan draped over the shoulder.

woman wearing all-black prada outfit

(Image credit: @chey_maya)

For the designer girls, this is how you style a head-to-toe label look.

woman wearing black mini dress and flip flops

(Image credit: @piamance)

For this all-black look, we're eyeing the unexpected yet cool footwear choice.

woman wearing black midi dress and black flats

(Image credit: @rayan.xasan)

A fitted midi dress, kitten heels, and statement earrings—that's all.

Contributing Fashion Editor