If there's one dress I'm forever a fan of, it's a black one. linen or silky, short or long, a black dress is a style I can always get behind—and that's coming from someone who typically steers away from dresses altogether. Part of their appeal is their versatility, and the fact that with a few clever accessory switches they can take you from day to night, casual weekend lunches to a much-anticipated date night. That being said, I'm always on the hunt for fresh outfit inspiration, especially now that I'm in summer outfit planning mode. Bring on the Instagram scrolling.
Let's start with the dress itself. In my opinion, nothing is more elegant than a long-sleeved midi or maxi dress, especially when its a finely knitted style. That's the kind of dress you could wear with a trench and trainers for a more casual ensemble, or with the very on-trend leather flip-flops for a more day-to-night look. Then there are the evening wear options—slinky slip dresses, ankle-grazing maxis and sophisticated flowy styles will all score serious fashion points, and also can be styled for day by layering with cardigans or blazers.
If you're also looking for fresh black dress outfit inspiration, look no further—below I've found eigfiveht excellent black dress looks for every occasion, and every style.
5 BLACK DRESS OUTFITS I LOVE FOR SUMMER 2025
1. Short-Sleeved Dress + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats are a summer staple, and these versatile shoes work particularly well with black dresses of all styles. Personally, I love the effortlessly elegant look of pairing Mary-Jane pumps with a pretty short-sleeved dress. So classic.
Shop the Look:
My dream black summer dress.
The square-toe? Yes, please.
Woven leather is a trend I'm really loving at the moment.
2. Mini Slip Dress + Slides
Style Notes: A satin slip is a year-round staple. Get the most of out a mini style by wearing it with simple sandals and a raffia bag now, and then layering a warm coat over come autumn.
Shop the Look:
Proving that black mini dresses are unbeatably sleek.
The easiest sandal you can find.
A raffia bag is the required finishing touch.
3. Drop-Waist Dress + Heels
Style Notes: Even if the temperatures rise, you don't have to give up your love of longer dresses. Opt for a sleeveless style and pair with heels (luckily for us, lower-heeled versions are particularly on trend this season).
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The racer back is such a great detail.
A truly timeless heel.
Oval sunnies will always be in style.
How cool are these teardrop earrings.
4. Polka-Dot Dress + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: All of us atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing are huge fans of polka dot dresses, especially for warm-weather dressing. You'll get even more style points by pairing it with a boxy blazer and sleek leather flip-flops.
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A lightweight take on the classic blazer? I'm sold.
This pattern is everywhere for summer 2025.
If you don't want to give up on the flip-flop trend, these are the answer.
Cord necklaces are such an easy way to elevate an outfit.
5. Long-Sleeve Dress + Mesh Flats
Style Notes: A black long-sleeve dress is a great piece to have on hand for evening wear, but Ingrid's look proves how easily you can style it for the day, too. Mesh flats along with some sleek accessories keep it relaxed yet polished.
Shop the Look:
Wear this solo to your next event and you're sure to impress.
The buckle is such a cool detail.
Another cord necklace I have my eye on.
This looks like a designer piece.
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