OK, it’s a fact that black clothing absorbs heats thus making it a little warmer to wear, but I hate to break it to you guys: when a heatwave is on the cards, any piece of clothing will feel a little too warm to wear, if we’re being honest. It’s for that reason that you may as well opt for a black dress, since they’re the chicest way to make it through the scorching temperatures.
I’d argue that the fabric and silhouette will have a bigger effect – after all, regardless of the colour, can you think of anything worse than a ribbed jersey bodycon dress in sticky heat? Whether you’re stocking up for a summer holiday you’re counting down the days to, or just want to be prepared for a long, boiling hot summer like last year, these are the best black dresses to buy while you can.
The best black dresses on the high street to shop now
If you’re keen to see out a heatwave in style, here are 17 black dresses that are as summery as they are chic. Just add sandals and sunnies…
This Free People number has a strap in the perfect place as it means you can still sport a bra, ideal for bigger bust gals.
The wide sleeves and skirted silhouette of this dress means the cut-outs don’t look too outré – ideal if you’re trying the trend for the first time. Wear it with strappy black sandals for evening.
The ideal bank holiday BBQ dress: a billowy skirt for sitting on the grass, a cute but not-too-revealing dressy top-half, and minimal straps so no crazy tan lines.
Slip dresses are big news for the new season, and since this one isn’t as flimsy as some of the others on the high street so it’s well worth an investment. Wear with chunky dad sandals.
The ideal day-to-night dress, pair this lace number with smart black slides for day, then metallic heels and a red lip for night.
Blazer dresses are chic year round, and this one will look just as good now with heeled mules as it will come winter with knee-high boots.
If you’re packing for a beach holiday, look no further for the perfect cover-up. In lightweight linen, it’ll dry quickly if you throw it on over a wet swimsuit, too.
The ideal bottomless brunch dress: roomy for maximum consumption, a cute top half to nail tabletop dressing and teeny cut out details that tick the fashion-forward box.
If you need a dress you can show office-face in, a sweet black number in a modest cut is the one. Team with backless loafers and sunnies.
Broderie Anglaise details always make a dress look more expensive than it is, and this Nobody’s Child number is no different. Get ready to humblebrag.
Team this casual cami dress with leather slides and a straw hat for a chic sightseeing look if you’re off on a city break.
90s style is back in a big way for the summer, and this minimal black mini is an easy way to tap into the trend.
If you’re after an expensive-looking evening dress that calls for minimum accessorising, this plisse dress is it. Wear with strappy black heels and a metallic bag,
Nothing brings summery vibes like crochet does, and this dress is just crying out for some oversized gold jewellery and wedge espadrilles.
This slinky slip has a subtle leopard print which makes it feel more interesting than a classic black slip. Wear with sparkly earrings.
Floaty linen midis are perfect if you’ll be out and about over the bank holiday weekend. Team with block colour sandals and a straw tote.
A night out calls for a sexy dress, and with a mini length, black colourway and midriff cutaways, this ticks every box.
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