I Finally See Why People Wear Black in the Summer — These 23 Dresses Are It!

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You'd be forgiven if you thought that black dresses are only reserved for the fall or winter. Even though I mostly gravitate toward colorful clothes in the summer, I can never resist a flattering black dress for an alfresco dinner or dressy night out. There's a reason fashion-lovers have universally embraced the color black — it's crisp, elegant, and timeless.

We're loving the many iterations of black dresses designers have come up with this season. From an open-back design to a drapey tulle style, you'll be excited to shop the edit I've curated ahead. Just wait until you see the H&M tennis dress.

For Casual Elegance: H&M V-Neck Dress
www2.hm.com

For Casual Elegance: H&M V-Neck Dress

This H&M V-Neck Dress ($35) will look chic no matter what you pair it with. Style it with kitten heels and a small shoulder bag, and you're ready for dinner followed by a night out.

For Playful Style: A New Day Short Sleeve Tiered Dress
target.com

For Playful Style: A New Day Short Sleeve Tiered Dress

Feel light and easy in this A New Day Short Sleeve Tiered Dress ($25). With its flowy silhouette and textured fabric, it'll make a stylish addition to your summer wardrobe.

For Playful Drama: Who What Wear Ruffle Short Sleeve Dress
target.com

For Playful Drama: Who What Wear Ruffle Short Sleeve Dress

This Who What Wear Ruffle Short Sleeve Dress ($34) captures the spontaneity of summer plans in the best possible way. The puff sleeves add drama while the silhouette brings a touch of playfulness and flair.

For a Night Out: Draped Midi Dress
zara.com

For a Night Out: Draped Midi Dress

Bring the sexy in this Draped Midi Dress ($50) for a night out, or pair it with sneakers and a light jacket for an easygoing daytime look.

The Sporty Style: H&M Tennis Dress
www2.hm.com

The Sporty Style: H&M Tennis Dress

Sporty Spice, is that you? Reach for this comfortable H&M Tennis Dress ($25) any time you need to go somewhere.

The Ultimate Basic: H&M Cotton T-Shirt Dress
www2.hm.com

The Ultimate Basic: H&M Cotton T-Shirt Dress

You'll reach for this H&M Cotton T-Shirt Dress ($15) every time. It's comfortable, easy to wear, and a great basic.

For a Sultry Statement: Draped Tulle Dress
zara.com

For a Sultry Statement: Draped Tulle Dress

This Draped Tulle Dress ($70) hints at a passionate nature, thanks to its figure-sculpting silhouette and mesh fabric. Complete the look with some barely there sandals and a small shoulder bag.

For a Fancy Dinner: Linen Blend Dress
zara.com

For a Fancy Dinner: Linen Blend Dress

This Linen Blend Dress ($50) pairs well with an alfresco dinner spent catching up with loved ones around your favorite dishes.

For a One-and-Done Sexy Look: Tube Dress
zara.com

For a One-and-Done Sexy Look: Tube Dress

Throw on this Tube Dress ($46) whenever you're unsure what the dress code is. It's a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

The Flattering Find: BP. Front Slit Rib T-Shirt Dress
nordstrom.com

The Flattering Find: BP. Front Slit Rib T-Shirt Dress

When you think of T-shirt dresses, you probably think of this BP. Front Slit Rib T-Shirt Dress ($35). We love that it's a classic shape up top, and the little slit adds something extra.

Perfect Summer Dress: Puff-sleeve Cotton Poplin Wrap Dress
jcrew.com

Perfect Summer Dress: Puff-sleeve Cotton Poplin Wrap Dress

We don't know about you, but we love a one-and-done outfit, and this Puff-sleeve Cotton Poplin Wrap Dress ($106, originally $118, plus extra 60 percent off with code SALETIME) is looking like it right now. We're planning to live in easygoing and polished styles like this all summer long.

A Hot-Weather Dress: Everlane Weekend Tiered Dress
everlane.com

A Hot-Weather Dress: Everlane Weekend Tiered Dress

For the days you just want to be comfortable, opt for the Everlane Weekend Tiered Dress ($48, originally $60). The versatile dress also comes in cream, oak, and a pretty blue shade.

For an Unexpected Twist: AFRM Rhys Cutout Long Sleeve Midi Dress
nordstrom.com

For an Unexpected Twist: AFRM Rhys Cutout Long Sleeve Midi Dress

The midriff-baring cutout of this AFRM Rhys Cutout Long Sleeve Midi Dress ($77, originally $128) adds an element of surprise that is extremely flattering. Save it for a chic dinner or an exciting first date.

For a Dress That's Made For You: Good American Ribbed Tank Dress
nordstrom.com

For a Dress That's Made For You: Good American Ribbed Tank Dress

This Good American Ribbed Tank Dress ($99) makes a sleek, modern, and sexy statement in your closet. If it gets chilly, just wear it under a leather jacket and you'll be good to go.

For an Endlessly Versatile Pick: Germinate Maxi T-Shirt Dress
Amazon

For an Endlessly Versatile Pick: Germinate Maxi T-Shirt Dress

There are so many ways to style this Germinate Maxi T-Shirt Dress ($11-$16), whether you opt for sneakers and denim jacket, or just slide sandals.

If You Like Pockets: Jar of Love T-Shirt Dress
amazon.com

If You Like Pockets: Jar of Love T-Shirt Dress

This Jar of Love T-Shirt Dress ($21-$26) has pockets, so you can store all your small cards in them and stay hands-free.

For a Pep in Your Step: Old Navy Fit and Flare Sleeveless Smocked Tie-Shoulder Midi Dress
oldnavy.gap.com

For a Pep in Your Step: Old Navy Fit and Flare Sleeveless Smocked Tie-Shoulder Midi Dress

Wear this Old Navy Fit and Flare Sleeveless Smocked Tie-Shoulder Midi Dress ($50, plus 20 percent off with code SWEET) out for a breezy summer date night. It'll make you feel confident and easygoing.

The Throw-On-and-Go Dress: Old Navy Vintage Sleeveless T-Shirt Shift Dress
oldnavy.gap.com

The Throw-On-and-Go Dress: Old Navy Vintage Sleeveless T-Shirt Shift Dress

You'll throw on this easy Old Navy Vintage Sleeveless T-Shirt Shift Dress ($30, plus 20 percent off with code SWEET) and run out the door. It comes in lots of colors, but you can't go wrong with black.

The '20s Came Calling: L'Vow Tassels Strap Dress
amazon.com

The '20s Came Calling: L'Vow Tassels Strap Dress

Everyone will want to know where this retro and glam L'Vow Tassels Strap Dress ($34) is from. Save it for the next themed party, and watch the compliments roll in.

For the Office: Old Navy Ponte-Knit Sheath Dress
oldnavy.gap.com

For the Office: Old Navy Ponte-Knit Sheath Dress

Get a polished look for an important meeting or interview with the sleek Old Navy Ponte-Knit Sheath Dress ($40). Finish off the look with some low-heeled shoes or pointy mules.

For Maxium Comfort: Enza Costa Cotton Tiered Dress
revolve.com

For Maxium Comfort: Enza Costa Cotton Tiered Dress

This Enza Costa Cotton Tiered Dress ($264) is made from 100 percent cotton, so you can beat the heat while still looking effortless. The lightweight fabric makes it ideal for all-day wear.