SUMMER STYLE NEEDS BLACK

earrings, skirt, shirt, sandal, Gabriela Hearst Resort 2026

SUMMER STYLE NEEDS BLACK: I think almost everything looks better with a black accent. It’s the punctuation mark to an outfit, like a period at the end of a sentence. It creates a balance and structure that complements whatever its paired with. My summer wardrobe always includes black and I’m routinely pairing it with white. I love the sharp contrast. The fabric defines the mood entirely. Crisp cottons deliver polish, while textured linens offer the relaxed sophistication that defines the season.

White jeans with black accents is one of my summer uniforms I’m routinely building outfits around. I’ll mix those pieces in as many ways as I can imagine. If you look back at my Wearing Lately posts, you’ll see I’ve already identified a great classic white jean. I’m rotating it with a wide-leg style and that covers my needs. Both pants become canvases for black poplin shirts (crisp and clean), linen blouses (textured and lived-in), nubby sweaters for cool mornings (love this and this from Jenni Kayne), and blazers in both shrunken and oversized proportions.

What I’m interested in adding now is a straight black cotton skirt with an almost utilitarian feel. I have a full skirt (seen multiple times in my travel posts) and would like a more tailored style. I see the skirt paired with low-heeled sandals, a crisp white shirt tucked in, and a bold earring. A red sandal would work too. When the palette is pared down, accessories can afford to speak up.

Khaite; Hunting Season bag, Nili Lotan belt, Emme Parsons sandal, Sold Out NYC shirt

I’ll add neutrals to the equation, specifically tan. The Khaite Cruise 2026 collection had this perfect look I’d like to wear now and straight through fall. The subtle addition of tan through shoes and accessories rounds out the timeless and always modern palette.

Black accessories for summer look best with texture. They feel more seasonal – think woven leather and raffia details. These elements make black appear native to the warmer weather rather than borrowed from another season.

A low heel, suede sandal stays in the same minimalist realm as a flip flop but with the polish that takes you from day to night. It’s the kind of shoe everyone would benefit from having in their wardrobe.

Summer dressing doesn’t mean I’ll abandon the tools that make me feel most like myself. Black is a huge part of my wardrobe and I’ll let the season adapt to my style.

Tod’s, Prada, Banana Republic (not shown – Jenni Kayne cotton skirt)

woven bag: belts from top: braided with round buckle, gold buckle, covered buckle, classic woven with gold buckle

Summer dressing doesn’t mean I’ll abandon the tools that make me feel most like myself. Black is a huge part of my wardrobe and I’ll let the season adapt to my style.

Shop more pieces in my BLACK & WHITE edit here.