Back to Black: Easy Ways to Wear Black All Summer Long

As the summer approaches, many of us are thinking about bringing brighter colors out of hibernation and back into our wardrobes. If you’re building a capsule wardrobe or just a well-balanced wardrobe, you may want to consider having some black in your arsenal. Whether you have an edgy style that boasts a lot of black with dark hues dominating your wardrobe or you are a floral and color lover, this post is here to convince you that black deserves to have a place in your wardrobe no matter the season. The great thing about black is that it’s a universal color and seems to withstand the trends. Plus, it works on almost any skin hue. Worried about black getting warm where you live? Worry not! We have several options in this post for all climates with ways to style black to beat the heat for us petites.

Looking to add petite black staples to your closet? Request a Short Story box today!

Little Black Dress

You can almost never go wrong with a little black dress - there’s one for every season, style, and occasion! As a petite, go with a style that hits a bit above the knees or a maxi style to really lengthen your frame. To make a black dress work for a feminine style, try adding some dainty layered necklaces, a sleek low bun, and some strappy slide sandals for the ideal date night look.

For the one’s wanting to look a bit more class, stick with a sheath style for an elevated and polished look. Layer on a blazer to make that dress work-appropriate in seconds! The key to finding a black dress that works for you is to focus on the silhouette. A fit and flare is almost always universally flattering but don’t be afraid to try a sheath or bodycon style if you want to show off your curves!

The Midi Skirt

The midi length gets a bad rap among the petite community. Many think it makes them look shorter when the fact of the matter is that you’re just buying standard sizing instead of petite. Go for a true petite midi fit with a bit of movement - think gathers or pleats. If you’re looking to find a midi off the rack in standard sizing, be sure to look for one that comes only a couple of inches below the knee - any longer than that and you will tread into the “stumpy” look that many petites fear with this style.

This flattering skirt is so universal! You can easily wear it with a knotted tee and sneakers for mini golf with the fam or dress it up with a classy blouse tucked in and a pair of heels for a day at the office. The great thing about this style as well is that it can easily work for other seasons as well - hello versatility!

A Simple Black Tank

Easy, laid-back summer days call for easy-to-wear pieces that go with wherever the day takes you. The black tank is a style that works just for these occasions and they come in all types. Feeling like showing off your figure a bit? Go for a fitted or cropped style. Wanting to cover up your midsection? Try a flowy blouse-style tank. Whatever style of tank you choose, pair it with a light-wash pair of denim. We love a good straight-leg denim style for a classy yet on-trend look.

If you live in an area that is blistering hot, opt for a pair of white shorts to beat the heat while still looking chic. Feeling like your black tank is a bit boring? Layer on some necklaces, bracelets and add some fun earrings to make the look your own - and don’t forget to add a pair of sandals for the ultimate summer look.

Black Jeans

Black jeans are often reserved for your fall and winter wardrobe but we’re here to tell you to keep wearing them all summer long! For an effortlessly chic look, go for all-black by pairing your jeans with a fitted black top or bodysuit. The secret to creating a monochromatic look is to play with proportion - try straight-leg black jeans with a fitted top or go for skinny jeans with a looser top depending on what part of your body you’d like to highlight.

Keep the look from being too “boring” by adding a fun purse or belt bag across your chest and add some layered gold jewelry to up the chic factor. Make sure to add a pair of sunnies as well!

Black Shorts

Shorts are the epitome of summer and having a black pair in your wardrobe will be a great go-to throughout the season and a key piece in a capsule wardrobe. The great thing about shorts is that they come in various lengths so if you’re a bit self-conscious about your legs, try a longer style but if you feel like putting your legs on display, go for a shorter inseam.

Keep the style classy by pairing them with a white button-down tucked in with a French tuck and add some slide sandals for a look that will take you from errands to dinner in no time. Wanting a different vibe? Style a flowy tank in a floral print with flats for a romantic feel or go for a super laid-back look with a comfy tank, a baseball hat with a belt bag for a sporty on-the-go outfit.

Yes, black can be worn in the summer and it deserves a place in your wardrobe! This classic hue stands the test of time and it’s great for creating lots of different looks for any occasion- summer included.

Feeling like your closet is lacking some black options? Ask for any (or all) of these pieces in your next Short Story box and we’ll do our best to curate a petite summer box just for you!

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*Cover photo: Extra Petite