Yes, we know summer is all about brights and light colours, but do we really have to put our black outfits away? No way!
Black is a go-to hue for many of us and it's not hard to see why. It goes with everything, is super flattering and is seriously chic. But we always seem to ditch black clothes in the summer, even though we don't have to.
Black may attract heat, but there are a few steadfast rules you can use to rock all black in the summer. If you follow them, you will be back on the stylish dark side in no time.
Check out how these fashion-forward Instagram stars wear black all year round.
1. Choose your fabric wisely. No velvet, no wool and no leather. Black denim is a maybe if it's not too hot, but it is really best to stick with lightweight tops and sandals. Try cotton, linen, lace, mesh, silk, chiffon or anglaise that will keep you looking and feeling cool.
2. Show some skin. It's hot, show off those legs, shoulders and arms. Rock a crop top or a mini skirt or both at the same time. This is the perfect way to wear all black in the summer. If you're not keen on the mini-and-crop-top-combo, try wearing trousers or jeans that are cropped above the ankle and tops that are off-the-shoulder or have simple thin straps.
3. Prints party. Prints can make your all black look a lot more suitable for summer. Prints on a black background, particularly smaller ones, are a fail-safe way to look super fashionable. Our very own Bonang Matheba is a big fan of this style and an even bigger fan of the all black look.
4. Accessorise in style. True lovers of black will want to resist the urge to accessorise their outfits with bursts of colour, but in summer you can make a few exceptions. A pop of colour in the form of a bag or even a ring makes for a hot (pun intended) look.
If colour is not your thing, go for black and white accessories or for neutral seasonal accessories like a straw bag, sunglasses and jewellery in silver or gold.