I have a lot of black in my wardrobe—skirts, sweaters, crop tops. You name it, I’ve got it all! I guess it’s something about the sophistication or the fact that it pairs well with really any other color. Either way, I’ve got it. But while I wear black with pretty much any outfit, it’s not always the most summer-friendly color. Normally, summer calls for bright pinks and fresh yellows, shades that remind us of warm weather and fun times under the sun. So, when this season rolls around, I’m usually searching for ways to make my favorite black pieces appropriate for summer.
After watching the BCBGMAXAZRIA fall 2015 ready-to-wear collection, I think I’ve figured it out. Throughout the collection, models wear dark-colored dresses and skirts. Some outfits have gray or neutral accents, and many showcase rich shades like russet red and burnt orange. Many of the looks also feature jackets and sweaters, giving the outfits an even more put together feel. Although the collection is aimed at fall apparel, I had fun taking inspiration from it for summer.
My favorite thing about this collection is its use of black and other neutral shades. By adding subtle but striking hues like dark orange and deep red, the looks become more fall-appropriate and are brought to life. Taking inspiration from this collection, I went with a mostly black and gray outfit, pairing my beloved black bodycon skirt and gray crop top together. I made my look summer-friendly by choosing a crop top and miniskirt over the flowy, more generous cuts seen in the collection.
Finally, my favorite part: the sweater! I incorporated the orange shade found in the collection in my long waterfall cardigan. Not only does this piece incorporate color into the look, but it also draws from the many jackets and sweaters in the collection as well. I completed the look with my favorite black ankle strap sandals.
Get My Look: 1. A simple, black bodycon skirt. 2. A graphic crop top in a neutral shade. 3. A long cardigan with a pop of color.
