The Wednesday Effect: How We’re Wearing Black For Summer

Name a more iconic duo than a night out and an LBD… Go on, we’ll wait. While black dresses are a year-round staple, party season is their chance to shine. Whether it’s your work Christmas party or New Year’s Eve, there’s a black dress to suit every. single. occasion. To prove black’s anything but boring, we love styles with sequins, lace or cut-outs to dial up the drama. Not feeling the dress? A statement black top paired with a mini skirt or low-rise jeans is an easy alternative – corset tops and satin camis are our current faves.

Being best-dressed guest at a summer wedding doesn’t have to mean soft pastels. A black dress in an airy, light fabric can just as easily nail the brief. Look for elevated maxi dresses in breezy linen or finely woven cotton, and lighten the look with a strappy heel, delicate jewels and glowing skin. If wearing black to a wedding still feels too heavy, flip the script with a timeless black clutch to ground a lighter outfit. Treat yourself to a piece you’ll carry again and again from our pick of women’s designer bags.

Consider black your blank canvas when it comes to pulling together your packing list. Black swimwear *literally* never goes out of style, so stock up on bikini sets or one-pieces that’ll stand the test of time. Round out your holiday wardrobe with linen dresses, slides and sunglasses for vacation outfits you won’t have to think twice about.

Headed to a music festival (or few) this summer? Make a black outfit your BFF and you’ll wonder why you ever even *thought* about wearing another colour – dirt, dust and spilled drinks don’t stand a chance. Look to festival faves like Lioness for trending styles in slick black, and complete the vibe with a pair of wear-with-anything Dr Martens. 

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean our usual routine goes *completely* out the window. From weekend errands to days at the office, you’ll still wanna feel a little put-together. A wardrobe full of reliable black staples is something you can dip into all season long. Invest in elevated everyday styles by bassike, or balance an oversized white blouse with a slinky black skirt. If you’re looking to gift yourself something luxe this Christmas, you can’t go wrong with a Classic Chanel or pair of timeless black ballet flats.