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If you’re anything like me (aka a chronic sweater who lives in NYC), then your black staples collection is probably extensive. But that doesn’t mean color has to be the enemy. To help you add a little extra pop of color to your wardrobe this summer, I’ve curated a list of must-haves in different shades, patterns, and prints that are equal parts chic and versatile — and won’t show sweat stains.
Navy Is the New Black
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A linen-blend mini dress that’s ultra flattering…
Linen that’s as easy to style as it is to take care of? Yes, please. This breezy mini dress shows off a little skin while keeping you supported, thanks to its adjustable straps and square neckline. Add a cardigan or denim jacket and your favorite white sneakers to complete the look. Plus, you can throw it in the wash. ($34, Gap)
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A boat-neck top that means business…
One of my favorite things about this top is that you can wear it from the office to happy hour to picnic without having to reinvent your whole outfit. I also love its soft, stretchy ribbed fabric. It’s perfect for tucking into your favorite pair of pants or dressing up any jeans. ($55, Banana Republic)
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Casual, warm-weather pants that feel like pajamas…
In my opinion, all clothes should feel so comfy, you could sleep in them. And these linen pants definitely fit the bill. They’ve got a drawstring waist that sits just above your hips and a relaxed, loose fit. The material is incredibly lightweight and machine-washable. I’m not saying it’s time to kick your black leggings to the curb, but I’m also not not saying that. ($42.95, PacSun)
The Power of a Power Color
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A classic linen button-down that’s perfect for layering…
This breathable button-down will help you nail the perfect layered look without warming you up. It’s easy to throw on over a tank or bralette, or tied together to create a more cropped, fitted look. The oversized fit also helps keep any pit stains or sweat marks minimal. ($39.90, Uniqlo)
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A colorful muscle tank that’s made for warm weather…
This tank’s moisture-wicking fabric makes wearing color that much easier over the summer. It comes in 10 eye-catching limited edition colors, like brown (a chic alternative to black) and cherry red. It’s double-layered for a supportive fit, but the material is so smooth, you’ll barely notice it on. It’s the perfect lounge-y top that can go from day to night in seconds. ($38, Aritzia)
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Paperbag shorts that will elevate any tank top…
I’ve been living in these Old Navy shorts. They have a loose, oversized fit, which makes them extra comfortable and wedgie-averse, but the cinched waist creates definition. They come in five colors that are muted enough to pass as neutrals but colorful enough to pair with any black, white, or beige top. They also happen to cost less than $35. ($34.99, Old Navy)
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A denim maxi dress that’s not like regular denim dresses…
It’s a cool maxi dress. Literally. This denim dress has to be one of the breeziest I’ve seen thanks to its chic halter neck and low-cut back. Plus, the denim material is mixed with lightweight recycled cotton for extra breathability and comfort. I’m giving it extra points for its easy-to-close front zipper and back tie for extra support. ($40, Target)
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Beach-ready pants you won’t want to take off…
If you’re looking for breathable pants you can wear from the beach to brunch to the office, look no further. These linen-blend pants come in so many cute, versatile colors that can be paired with virtually any top you own (even the black ones). They also have an ultra-high rise and wide-leg fit that works just as well with sneaks as it does with heels. ($90, Abercrombie & Fitch)
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A sporty dress with retro vibes…
I’m predicting major serves this summer in this tenniscore dress. It comes in classic black and white, but don’t sleep on the evergreen and pale blue shades — they’re surprisingly easy to style. The cutout adds a little extra oomph compared to other traditional A-line dresses. I especially love that it's available in sizes XS-4X, and that it’s only $20. ($20, Target)
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A square-neck bodysuit you won’t need a bra for…
I tested this SKIMS bodysuit last year and still swear by it. The material is soft enough to feel like a second skin but extremely supportive and opaque, so you won’t need a bra underneath. It doesn’t bunch or sag and it hugs in all the right spots. Don’t let the size fool you, this bodysuit can stretch up to twice its original size without losing its shape. For summer I’m grabbing one of the pretty limited-edition shades, like lilac and lemon yellow. ($60, Skims)
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A smocked jumpsuit that’ll become a staple for outdoor events…
Whether you’ve got a picnic or a birthday brunch on your cal, this jumpsuit is ready for it. Its thick straps, smocked bodice, and wide-leg pants make it a comfy go-to for any warm weather event. Think of it as a one-and-done look you can wear again and again. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
Prints & Patterns You Won't Hate
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A coverup that doubles as a maxi dress…
Presenting: the perfect maxi for any poolside party you’ve got coming up. Not only do I love that this dress is under $10, but it’s also easy to throw on and go. The floral pattern reads summery, without forcing you out of your all-black comfort zone. Wear it over your favorite swimsuit or with your comfiest bra, thanks to its thick, removable straps. ($9.99, Walmart)
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Statement shorts you can dress up or down…
If you’re looking for shorts that are eye-catching but more versatile than a paper bag cut, you’ll want to add these to your cart. They come in four patterns, including classic stripes and a tropical floral print, and eight solid colors that range from neutral to neon. Wear them with a bathing suit while on vacation or pair with a simple tee for a chic daytime look. ($29.99, Old Navy)
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A striped crewneck sweater to throw on over a swimsuit…
POV: You’re watching the sunset on a beach, enjoying a slight breeze, and feeling perfectly cozy in this lightweight pullover. It’s thin enough to keep you from overheating and oversized enough to wear over virtually anything you own. It comes in a few different color combos, including a black-and-white version with just a hint of cobalt blue along the neckline and sleeves. ($98, Free People)
Just a Pop
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A nail polish set with summery colors…
If you’re truly averse to wearing color, consider some bright nail polish to help summer-ify your look. This set includes four sunset-inspired shades that will go with anything you pair them with — including your beloved black pieces. Pro tip: Add other bold accessories in a similar color, like earrings, a clutch, or hair clips to amp up the color even more. ($29.98, Ulta)
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A bag to pair with your brightly colored nails…
A colorful clutch, you say? How about this Skimm’r favorite from UNIQLO? This tiny but mighty bag carries way more than you’d think, thanks to its spacious interior and inner pocket. The fabric is coated with a water-repellant finish that’s also dirt-resistant, so it’ll withstand all your trips to the beach. Adjust the strap to wear it as a crossbody bag or handheld mini bag. ($19.90, Uniqlo)
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Trendy checkerboard hair clips…
Never underestimate the power of a really good hair accessory, especially if you’re trying to add color to a neutral outfit. These clips come in packs of six, each with a unique checkered pattern. They’re designed to keep your hair up and out of your eyes all day, regardless of your hair type. And no, I won’t blame you for snagging more than one pack. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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