The "Boring" Hue You Weren't Expecting to Be a Hit This Summer

When you think of summer, lively, vibrant, and fresh colors come to mind—from bright reds to sunny yellows, striking greens to crisp whites—all of which exude a fun and free-spirited warm-weather mood. While many of these expressive colors were spotted on the spring/summer 2020 runways (bold red, pale blue, tangerine and saffron were some of the most popular shades we observed), it was actually one unexpected basic color that really caught our eye.

Yes, that's right—black was seen in abundance on the runways in intriguing and eye-catching silhouettes. Think summery LBDs and effortless separates (silky slip dresses at Gabriella Hearst, one-shoulder midi dresses at Bottega Veneta, and tube tops and breezy maxi skirts at Saks Potts) that prove that the hue is anything but boring.

Scroll below as we share some of the coolest ways to add the basic hue into your warm-weather wardrobe right now.

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Bottega Veneta, Estrop/Getty Images)

At Bottega Veneta, easy-to-wear one-shoulder black dresses were seen paired with neutral accessories.

Shop the look:

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Courtesy of Gabriella Hearst)

Gabriella Hearst proved what a perfect day-to-night outfit a delicate black slip dress and casual flat sandals can be this summer.

Shop the look:

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Courtesy of Rochas)

Polished suiting got a refreshing update at Rochas, with belted shirt jackets and matching pedal pushers adding a summery touch to sophisticated ensembles.

Shop the look:

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Saks Potts, Yulia Christensen/Getty Images)

Tube tops are trending for summer. Pair a chic black one with a billowy maxi skirt, as seen at Saks Potts.

Shop the look:

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Courtesy of David Korma)

Asymmetric straps add a minimalist-chic look to an all-black ensemble. Perfect for the warmer months ahead.

Shop the look:

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On the runway:
(Image credit: Courtesy of Christopher Kane)

Cool cutout silhouettes were a trend we saw all over the spring and fall 2020 runways, as seen here at Christopher Kane.

Shop the look:

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On the 'gram:
(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

A black comfy ribbed knit set is all we want to wear right now.

Shop the look:

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On the 'gram:
(Image credit: Pernille Teisbaek)

A black lightweight jumpsuit paired with sporty sandals is a modern and effortless look. This is perfect for both spring and summer.

Shop the look:

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On the 'gram:
(Image credit: @laurencaruso)

Long live classic black slip dresses. So versatile and chic.

Shop the look:

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On the 'gram:
(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Black leather is a trend that's here to stay (yes, even for summer!). Opt for long leather shorts once the temps start to rise.

Shop the look:

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On the 'gram:
(Image credit: @walkinwonderland)

A classic black tee + a chic black midi skirt equals a winning stylish combo. 

Shop the look:

Up next, the seven biggest color trends we'll all be wearing in 2020.

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.