7 Summer Black Outfit Ideas That Are Anything But Boring

I don’t know about you but I find that I wear black more in the summer than I do in the winter. In the winter, with a pale ole face on a mizzly day it can feel a bit draining and meh, but with a tan (be that fake or real) and the sun attempting to shine, black looks tres chic indeed.

The trick to making your black outfit look less like a Greek widow and more like a French girl is always the accessories. Gold jewellery, interesting ballet flats and a swish bag will help elevate your look no end. I have based all these outfits on things I already have in my wardrobe. Think of it as your personal monochrome lookbook as I’m sure you can do the same.

THE BLACK LINEN SUMMER SUIT

Saying I own similar outfits and I’ve just realised that I don’t actually have a black linen blazer. That’s a bit of hole I have in my wardrobe that might have to be rectified this summer. I kind of like the idea of a short sleeve version as it would add the layering interest but without making you too hot. I recently changed my HRT dosages and I fear the flushes may have returned (great timing) so I’m all about those light layers right now.

THE BLACK MIDI SKIRT

We’ve talked about the white midi skirt being a great summer staple but let’s be honest a black one is more practical for anyone prone to spillages. I have searched high and low for my old black summer skirt. I may have inadvertently taken it to the charity shop when I did my summer wardrobe switchover last week. I was being extra ruthless with my cull this year as I have a tendency to hang onto summer outfits longer than necessary. Maybe it’s because they hold so many holiday memories.

THE CHIC BLACK ONE-PIECES

Talking of holidays, I thought I’d add a swimsuit section this week. To my mind there is nothing more stylish on the beach or by the pool than a black one-piece costume. I have come to terms with my bikini days being over. It’s not the actual size of the belly that bothers me, it’s the weird crepey skin that is there now. I could look into high waisted bikini bottoms, but I am happier in a one-piece. I have said many times that Hunza G is my favourite. That hasn’t changed this year. It’s still my number one choice.

THE STRAPPY BLACK DRESS

I can’t even tell you how many black dress frogs I have kissed over the past few weeks to come up with this prince. Actually I found 2 princes in the form of a black strappy dress. There is this one from Me + Em — it has pockets, it has a optional fabric belt, it has straps that perfectly cover your bra. It’s the perfect not-quite-maxi-but-more-than-midi length. Winner.

I also went to Primark last week to stock up on my footsies. They are still the best I have found but they get lost in the wash over time so I do have to do a bi-annual replenish. When I was in there I tried on this dress. My hopes were low, especially when I saw it cost less than my lunch at Pret. To my surprise it was also a winner. No pockets. Not for that price, but it is made from 100% cotton and it also covers bra straps so I bought it while trying to quieten the voice in my head that asks ‘how can they make clothes this cheap?’.

THE BLACK CO-ORD

I don’t have a linen co-ord but you could make your own from any top and bottom you have. The beauty of black is that there aren’t really many variations in the shade so it’s perfect for mixing and matching. I love the shape of these trousers from Zara. This would be my perfect holiday sightseeing look.

THE BLACK SHORTS

At the time of writing my M&S shorts are back in stock. I hope they are still available by the time you read this as they are so good. Nice and light and swishy. Definitely size up here. Unfathomably M&S have changed their sizing recently — just to make everyone feel worse about their shape. These shorts do have an elastic panel at the back, but the waist is still quite small.

THE BLACK SUMMER WORK OUT GEAR

As I will be on a yoga retreat near Barcelona by the time you read this. More on that over on my instagram I’m sure. I may also write about it here too, let’s see how much I enjoy it first, I’ve never done anything like this before. Away abroad with not a single soul I know, doing lots of exercise. Who am I?

This is what I tend to wear in the summer when I go to the gym. I favour the 2‑in-one high waisted shorts like these and a vest that doesn’t cling too much like this one.

I hope this has given you some ideas for some not boring black summer outfits.

K x

WearsMyMoney

I spent it all on clothes by the looks of things...