How to Wear 'Summer Black'
Cut It Out
The Arista dress by designer Sabina Musayev is sure to be an
immediate classic in your wardrobe. The dress has a covered-up front with
a fun cinched and ruched waistband and cut-outs peeking from the sides.
Turn around, and you’ll see why this dress is business in the front and party in
the back. $325, Influence Style, 474 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle,
Sarasota, (941) 343-2315, influencestyle.com
Slip on, Slip Off
A fun summer is only possible with the most important of accessories: a reliable pair of summer sandals. Birkenstocks are the ultimate entry in this category. They’re comfortable and clunky (but not too clunky) and they have the perfect cork footbed for traversing any ground. These Birkenstock Arizona big buckle sandals are a great way to incorporate the summer black trend as just one part of your outfit. $160, Anthropologie, The Mall at University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, (941) 306-4513, anthropologie.com
Sarong So Right
This Michael Kors Sonoranpalm sarong is a cross between tropical and desert
and is the perfect piece to throw on just as you’re stepping out of the pool. The sheer chiffon fabric and below-the-knee cut mean you’ll feel covered up enough to wear it to a beachside lunch, and the ring detail at the waist keeps everything in place while you move. $82, Everything But Water, 331 John Ringling Blvd., St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, (941) 388-1205, everythingbutwater.com
Easy Peasy
Maybe you’re more of a laid-back person and you don’t want to wear an accessory
with a lot of oomph. If you’re wearing black, you’re wearing it in a simple and understated way. This belt bag is just the way to do that. Store your phone, keys and wallet inside and buckle this bag around your waist or clip it to your favorite tote. $29, Motel Therapy, 532 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, (941) 400-8974, moteltherapy.com
White Sand, Black Towel
When you’re headed to the beach and loading up your car with chairs, a cooler and an umbrella, it’s easy to treat your towel as an afterthought. But this vintage
striped beach towel from Business & Pleasure is poised to become one of your most prized possessions. The fringe trim and generous size—34 inches by 66 inches—make it a welcome addition to any beach trip. Hand-loomed in Pakistan, you can’t beat this kind of softness. $79, Dillard’s, 200 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, (941) 527- 4878, dillards.com