Black works in summer too, but how warm an outfit feels depends on more than colour. Fabric thickness, fit, ventilation, sun and activity all play a part. So choose based on the weather and what you are going to do that day, instead of automatically avoiding black.
Is black really too warm in summer?
Dark colours absorb more sunlight than light ones, and you notice that mainly outside in full sun. But black is more than a colour: the fabric, the fit and the place you are in determine a lot of how warm you get. In the shade, indoors and in the evening the difference is small. Many people therefore stick to black in summer too for the office, dinner and the city, because it looks calm and shows sweat marks less quickly than light shades.
Three principles for light and cool black
- Choose an airy fabric. Thin knitted or flowing fabrics feel lighter than thick cotton or a stiff weave.
- Mind fit and ventilation. More room can allow air circulation, but a slim-fit garment can also be comfortable if the fabric is light and the conditions are mild.
- Combine to your own taste. A light shade gives contrast, but all black can work just as well.
Which fabrics feel coolest?
| Fabric | Feel in summer | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Lyocell | Can feel soft and supple | How warm it feels also depends on thickness and knit structure |
| Fine cotton | Familiar and airy | Choose a thin weave or a fine knit |
| Merino wool, thin knit | Can be pleasant in a light knit | Look at thickness, knit and temperature |
| Viscose | Flowing and soft | Drapes beautifully in a loose cut |
| Dense polyester | Can feel warm | Preferably flowing or in a blend |
You can read more about these fibres on our pages about lyocell and merino wool.
For Women: black in three variations
1. All black. The black Ophelia is slim-fit and ribbed. Combine her with the black Daphni, ankle-length trousers with a pleat. Check the current fit on the product page; the product description and fit data currently do not use the same term everywhere.
2. Cape and midi skirt. The black Isadora cape T-shirt is regular-fit. With the black slim-fit Rosa midi skirt, a combination emerges with a difference in volume and texture. Shoes can be light or dark.
3. Black with a light shade. Wear your black polo or T-shirt with cream or white trousers. The contrast is soft and elegant, and the white reflects sunlight. See the collections polos for Women and trousers for Women for more options.
For Men: black without heaviness
For Men, the black Atticus is slim-fit, with the size advice to go one size up from your usual. The black Trenton is relaxed-fit and falls generously, with the advice to go one size down. Both can be worn with light or dark trousers.
Black at the office in summer
At the office, black is a safe choice, because it looks business-like and calm. In summer you keep it light by choosing a short sleeve or an open collar and leaving off the top layer if the air conditioning allows it. Black trousers with a light blouse or polo is a combination that suits almost anywhere. If you have an appointment outside the office, bring a thin cardigan instead of a jacket. It stays in your bag and you only put it on if needed.
The light counterweight
Black turns summery through what you put next to it. White, cream, light blue and sand work best, because they soften the black without displacing it. Keep accessories light in weight: a thin watch, small earrings and a fabric bag in a light shade. If you wear only black, texture helps: a ribbed polo next to flowing trousers gives depth and prevents the outfit from becoming flat.
Black in full sun
With prolonged exposure to bright sun, dark colours can absorb more radiation than light ones. But protection against heat and sun also depends on fabric, coverage, ventilation, shade and sun protection. So choose according to the conditions.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a thick, stiff fabric because it looks sleek.
- Combining only tight black pieces, without room for air.
- Sitting in bright sun for a whole afternoon in all black.
- Putting black clothing back in the wardrobe without airing it.
Keeping black beautiful in summer
Black clothing quickly shows dust, lint and white deodorant marks. Briefly brush black pieces after wearing, hang them up to air and wash them according to the care label. Many people turn dark clothing inside out before washing. You will find more explanation about symbols and temperatures on our care instructions page.
Shop the look
Ophelia: ribbed polo with quarter zip, black
Daphni: trousers with pleats and flared leg, black
Isadora: elegant cape T-shirt, black
Rosa: knee-length skirt, black
Atticus: striped cotton polo, black
Trenton: open merino wool polo, black
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear black in summer?
Yes. Pay particular attention to temperature, sun, fabric thickness, fit and activity.
Which fabric is coolest in black?
There is no universally coolest fibre. Thickness, weave or knit and ventilation are at least as important as the fibre name.
Is black suitable for a warm day outside?
In full sun, black absorbs more heat than a light colour. Then preferably choose grey, navy or a light shade, and wear black in the shade, indoors or in the evening.
Which colour do you combine with black in summer?
White, cream, light blue and sand soften black and make it look summery. One light shade is enough.
