In the immortal words of Yohji Yamamoto, "Black is lazy and easy — but mysterious. It means that many things go together, yet it takes different aspects in many fabrics. You need black to have a silhouette. Black can swallow light, or make things look sharp. But above all black says this: 'I don't bother you — don't bother me!"

Nicknamed “the poet of black,” Yohji has been rendering his collection in the hue for over four decades to evoke rebellion, romance, and mystery. While summer typically calls breezy cotton whites, colourful prints and brighter tones, we’re advocates of understated all-black attire here at Because. And indeed, sweeping silhouettes in linen, cotton and fine knit can keep you cool, despite the assumption that black absorbs heat – it’s just all about picking the right shapes and fabrics.  

Black guarantees ease when pulling a look together (since black always matches black), creates the illusion of clean lines without crinkles, and offers the security of sweat-masking. Breathable black clothing and accessories are perfect for the summer months, and here’s how to make them work for you.

A hybrid black summer dress is both sleek and versatile, perfect for throwing on over a bikini for casual day outings and wearing into the evening. Lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, crochet and silk ensure comfort and breathability, while the all-black option adds a touch of chic. Pair a flowing black sundress with sandals and trainers for a relaxed feel or dress it up with strappy heels and statement jewellery for a more polished look. With the right accessories, the humble black dress becomes a summer staple – simple yet refined. 

We’re big fans of a coordinating outfit, and opting for all-black is an easy way to dip your toes in the trend. Stylish and cohesive, with minimal effort, these matching sets, composed of a top and bottom in the same fabric, make dressing in all black easy. From waistcoats and camis over tailored shorts, skirts or trousers to boxy and breezy shirting, keep it cool and coordinated in these matching separates. 

Skirts have overtaken the sundress as the defining seasonal staple. According to British Vogue the summer skirt “doesn’t signal the same kind of quiet British desperation for warmth that a flippy summer dress does and it taps into all manner of micro trends” – rah-rah, bubble, boho, tartan and pleated skirts included – easy to pair with the essentials we already own, like tank tops, T-shirts and oversized cotton shirts, the statement skirt also looks good with or without a light jacket or jumper – perfect in the unpredictable British weather. 

Whether you prefer a classic one-piece, stringy bikini, or balconette set black swimwear looks great on everyone. Opt for texture or cutouts to add interest or keep it plain and simple. Pair your black swimwear with a sheer cover-up, sunhat, and towel, for maximum pool-side prowess, in and out of the water. 

If like us you own a number of staple black accessories that you keep on rotation, when it comes to accessorising in summer choose natural fabrics and tactile details for a seasonal update. Raffia, mesh, and woven materials exude costal chic, wherever you may be.