There’s Nothing Chicer Than a Black Dress—8 Outfits I’ll Rotate All Summer

The sun may be out but that doesn't mean you have to give up your favourite black dresses—here's how to make them work hard for summer.

A selection of stylish women wearing black summer dresses
(Image credit: @_livmadeline_; @monikh; @brittanybathgate)

If there's one colour I'm going to wear on almost a daily basis it's black. That's probably why I find summer one of the tricker months outfit-wise. Historically, I've found myself buying bright colours and styles that I wouldn't typically reach for and, surprise surprise, I end up not feeling like myself at all. I don't know why I've been making life so difficult for myself—higher temperatures doesn't have to mean giving up black items. In fact, black dresses are one of the best, most versatile pieces you can have in your summer collection.

@monikh wearing a black dress

(Image credit: @monikh)

The trick is in the choice of fabric and cut. Avoid synthetic materials and opt for breezy linens and cottons to stay cool in warm weather, and focus on silhouettes that are breathable and relaxed — think straight-cut linen shift dresses or voluminous cotton styles.

Then there's the styling. As we all know, black can be a great base to use as a backdrop to play with colour and texture, whether you opt for a vibrant hue shoe or bag, or lean into the summer mood by introducing raffia accessories. But you don't have to get into colour at all—many of the influencer looks I've found embrace the sleek minimalism of all-black looks, pairing classic black dresses with understated sandals and sunglasses.

Feeling inspired to join the black dress in summer movement? Scroll on to see my pick of eight of the best outfits courtesy of some of my favourite fashion people.

8 Black Dress Summer Outfits That Always Look Chic

1. Broderie Anglaise Dress + Mesh Flats

@oliviamarcus wearing black dress and mesh flats

(Image credit: @oliviamarcus)

Style Notes: You may typically think of a broderie anglaise dress as a white style, but this look proves there are incredibly chic black versions available, too. Keep yours looking modern by pairing with one of the more controversial trending shoes, the mesh flat.

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2. Scoop-Neck Dress + T-Shirt + Flip-Flops

@brittanybathgate wearing black dress and sandals

(Image credit: @brittanybathgate )

Style Notes: This is the kind of outfit that's perfect for taking a summer dress and making it more city appropriate. I enjoy the idea of layering a long dress over a classic white tee to create a look that feels really fresh and contemporary.

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3. Mini Dress + Cowboy Boots

@_livmadeline wearing mini dress and boots

(Image credit: @_livmadeline)

Style Notes: Londoners in particular have really been backing the boots-and-dress combo and I'm sold. There's just something about a black minidress and a classic Western boot just feels right.

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4. Linen Maxi + Slides

@annabelrosendahl wearing black dress and slides

(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl )

Style Notes: Sometimes, simple is best. Follow this example and opt for the beauty of understated minimalism by going for the combination of long linen dress and sleek slides.

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5. Puffy Sleeve Dress + Mules

@sylviemus_ wearing black dress and mules

(Image credit: @sylviemus_ )

Style Notes: I'm a big fan of puff-sleeve dresses but going for the silhouette doesn't have to mean going for a bright summer colour. Keep it sleek by opting for a black version with low-heeled mules.

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6. Mini Dress + Oversized Blazer + Heels

@_jeanettemadsen_ wearing black dress and blazer

(Image credit: @_jeanettemadsen_)

Style Notes: There's a reason a LBD is a wardrobe staple. Give yours an evening spin for summer by pairing with an oversized blazer (to keep the evening chill at bay) and you're favourite pair of heels, and you're done.

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7. Slip Dress + T-Bar Heels

@tamaramory wearing black slip dress and heels

(Image credit: @tamaramory )

Style Notes: A black slip dress is one of the most versatile styles you can own. Dress down by day by pairing with a cropped cardigan and flat sandals, or elevate with a great necklace and heels.

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8. Beach Dress + Basket Bag

@_loissterling wearing a black dress and basket bag

(Image credit: @_loissterling)

Style Notes: This is summer after all, so why not give your black dress the ultimate warm-weather treatment with a basket bag and a silk hair scarf for a look that loans itself to both holidays and home soil.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.