There’s an art to putting together a great ensemble and some may say wearing black is the lazy’s persons way out of styling a great outfit – that it’s not very creative. If you’re someone who subscribes to that train of thought then I’m letting you know right now that we will have to agree to disagree. Black is timeless and classic; it’s always chic. Yes, it is fail-safe, and when done right it can make you look like a million bucks. Case in point…The Duchess of Sussex looked fabulous in this cropped leg black Givenchy pantsuit during her recent trip to Ireland.

No matter what season it is, you’ll always find me wearing black. Summer is no exception. It’s a “color” that most people avoid when the temperatures rise, but there is definitely a stylish way to wear black during the summer without looking like you’ve committed a fashion faux pas. Here’s my secret:

A fail-safe way to pull off black successfully during the summer is to pair it with crisp, bright white.

If you are looking to update your summer style then here are a few pieces you might want to consider adding to your Summer 18 wardrobe. For your added convenience, I selected pieces at every price point so there is something for everyone.

I hate to be negative but I can’t write talk about summer style without mentioning one of the things that I despise the most about Southern California. I really dislike how overly casual we’ve become. I live by the beach and I’d like to think that people tend to dress even more casual here than other parts of the state but it’s just not so. Casual doesn’t give someone an excuse to be downright sloppy because it really sends a message that someone just doesn’t care. I get the fact that summer is about comfort but with little extra effort there’s a way to pull off a stylish, yet very comfortable look and this top is a great example of that. I like its woman’s cut and feminine sleeve detail. It’s a great alternative to a classic T with a great striped pattern. Plus, it looks fabulous teamed up with a pair of white pants. It’s an outfit that I would call “snappy casual”. It gets my seal of approval for casual wear. 

When I was in Italy last year everyone was wearing culottes and wide leg pants. Eventually, styles make their way to the U.S. and I love this look from & Other Stories. It’s a look that can easily transition from day to night just by swapping out the flats for heels and adding some bold accessories (statement necklace, anyone?). A crisp white blouse is timeless and the pants look stylish, yet comfortable.

Drawstring waist blouse.

Barely there earrings are great for day or night. I especially like that these black onyx studs and studs with the circular gold element can actually be worn all year round. 

A simple dress like this one can keep you cool all summer long. Pair it with the sandals below for a great daytime look. 

Summer is about a great pair of sandals and I fell head over heels with this tassel sandal the very moment I laid eyes on it.  

I really wish my hair was longer because there are so many cute hair accessories I would buy. I love this cute chain link hair clip. It’s currently on sale for only 8 bucks (originally $25).

These barely-there sandals in satin from Rosetta Getty caught my eye. 

Here’s a more affordable option in suede. 

Cropped wide-leg jumpsuit.

Faux wrap jumpsuit.

 

To complete the look above you’ll need a great heel. How about this one from Stewart Weitzman?

This one is almost identical to the Stewart Weitzman version but is a more affordable option. 

Or how about this one with the knotted bow? 

I was recently in the market for a new black tote bag. Bally is one of my go-to brands and I love that this tote also comes with a detachable pochette. It’s pricey but a classic will last forever.

If you are looking for a less expensive option, this classic leather tote from Cuyana is a great choice, plus they will even monogram it for you. I love supporting California businesses and Cuyana is a favorite.

I own a lot of shell blouses from Ann Taylor and the Swiss Dot Ruffle Neck Shell is one I’m planning to purchase. It’s currently on sale at half off by using code: TOPITOFF

Canvas and leather belt.

This off the shoulder crepe dress is perfect for a summer evening event when you need to dress things up a bit. It’s an extremely affordable option at only $149 at Nordstrom so you won’t feel guilty if you only wear it a couple of times during the season. By the way, the highly anticipated Nordstrom sale has already started for cardholders but starts July 20 for everyone else.

These black and gold hoop earrings are a winning combination but they are also available in orange in case you want to add a little color into your life.

This straw wristlet could easily become my best friend this summer. I love its unusual, modern shape.

Polka dots are having a moment and I like this dot print chiffon dress. This pattern is also offered in a pretty blouse style. 

I like investing in classic pieces. And when it comes to shoes, they can last a lifetime if they are well taken care of. These Roger Vivier flats may be pricey but they are a great option if you are looking to add a investment piece to your wardrobe. They are shown here in suede but they also come in leather. Other colors are also available.

ln Fall 2017 Rihanna collaborated with the luxury brand powerhouse LVMH to release Fenty Beauty. I’ve been using the translucent Invisimatte Blotting Powder since the day it was released and I can’t imagine living without it. In fact, I always keep two on hand: one for home and one to keep in my bag. It comes with a touchup sponge that works fine for me when I’m on the go but you can also purchase the mini touchup brush that is magnetic and conveniently sticks to the compact like two peas in a pod. This isn’t a beauty post but the black and white packaging fits right in with the theme of this post. Plus, who doesn’t want a good tip on how to reduce shine during the summer?

Summer is all about great swimwear and this bathing suit is appropriately named Showstopper. I love the ultra stylish design but if you’re going to wear this then be prepared for some unusual tan lines unless you decide to remove the detachable shoulder and back strap.

Black sunglasses are my trademark fashion accessory so I couldn’t write about summer style without offering up a ccouple of sunglass suggestions. I’m not sure I’ll ever embrace the complete cat-eye frame that I’ve seen lately, but this one from Gucci is so very subtle that I could probably pull it off. 

If you like the look of a thick frame, how about this stylish, yet less expensive option?

Summer evenings can get a bit cool, particularly here at the beach, and I like wearing a scarf like this one to keep the chill at bay. It’s a good alternative to a sweater. 

Eugenia Kim hats are nothing new and they tend to pop up all over the internet during the summer. I personally like this one that says “Dream On”. However, what is new this season is that fact that you can now customize a hat with your very own personalized message. What would yours say? 

Boring but important info: This post contains affiliate links. It doesn’t cost you any more to purchase the items in this post but I will be rewarded for your purchases. If you have any questions about this, please contact me. Thank you for supporting Reviving Charm.