Summer Noir: 3 Dresses that Prove You Can Look Breezy in Black

May 23, 2015

For some, the arrival of summer means donning gossamer layers in pretty pastels. For others, it means finding creative ways to keep wearing black. And why not? Black can be an unexpected, fresh choice in the summer—and with these three black work dresses, you’ll still feel light and bright, even if color isn’t your thing. 

A breathable A-line:

The Etta dress in staccato.

Ideal for: long lunch meetings, gallery-hopping, espresso-sipping, and general sauntering. The Etta dress is also machine-washable, so you can give it a quick rinse after a sticky summer subway commute. Breathability is paramount in the summer—and a midi-length dress with a subtle side slit helps keep you cool.

A perfect black shirt-dress:

The Nikita dress in black poplin.

Ideal for: convincing your boss that you deserve a raise, writing poems, going to Shakespeare in the Park, and ordering another round of rosé. A relaxed shirt-style dress in a lightweight fabric prevents unwanted clinging, so you can say goodbye to summer sweat stains.

A versatile sheath:

The Rachel dress.

Ideal for: getting promoted, wowing the clients, impromptu trips to Paris, and sipping smoky scotch (straight up). A sleeveless black dress is not only optimal for long, hot, summer days—it’s also the perfect layering base if your office happens to be sub-zero this time of year.

And if dresses aren’t your thing, but black is…

An elegant T-shirt style top with a fitted skirt: 

The Didion top and Greenpoint skirt.

Ideal for: those sticky days when the sun is hot but your demeanor is cool. Playing with volume by pairing a relaxed top like the Didion with a tailored skirt like the Greenpoint provides the comfort you need with the sophistication you want in your summer workwear.

Browse more black dresses here.