Melbourne is known for a few things: unpredictable weather, buzzy nightlife and a penchant for black. The chicest dressers know black lends immediate cool and easy sophistication, and despite what some might think, can be interesting too. The hue offers a blank canvas for experimentation, be it with texture, silhouette or accessories, and is eternally versatile. It’s the perfect winter colour, obviously, but what happens when the warmer weather rolls around and you’re not quite ready to relinquish the love affair?

TLDR; you don’t have to. When it comes to dressing for summer, it’s more about the materials and shapes you opt for than the colour — lean into lightweight fabrics and free-flowing silhouettes that can take the heat. For extra impact with minimal effort, embrace accessories like chunky jewellery, textured totes and shoes that are as chic as they are comfortable — think netted flats or for the bold, jelly sandals. Below, we hand pick the summer pieces that you’ll live in this season without having to relinquish your beloved black.

A wide-leg pair of lightweight trousers is a summer non-negotiable. They’re perfect for laid-back barbecues and evening events, worn down with a cami and flat sandals or dressed up with a one-shoulder bodysuit and strappy heels. These ones from Et Al. tick all the boxes.

Stormy Pleat Pant, $549 from Et Al., Level 2

A demure skirt that blows with the breeze for the hottest of days, but is chic enough to wear with a T-shirt and blazer to the office? We’ll take two. Husk’s pleated asymmetric Pia skirt will be your hot weather workwear staple.

Pia Skirt, $299 from Husk, Level 2

One item everyone needs in their summer arsenal is a black tank. This 90s-inspired style from Bec & Bridge puts a modern spin on the classic silhouette, and would be sleek styled with a pair of relaxed tailored trousers.

Leila Asym Tank, $90 from Bec & Bridge, Level 2

Everyone needs a summer dress that you can throw over swimmers, but also dress up with a pair of espadrilles and a statement bag for evening. This silk maxi from Jac + Jack is just that: elegant draping for a flattering fit and lightweight silk de chine makes it the do-anything summer dress.

Cloe SIlk Maxi Dress, $250 from Jac + Jack, Level 2

Sometimes, you just want to wear a slouchy pair of denim shorts and a cotton tank. Levi’s do it best, and these high-rise wide-leg shorts in a faded black wash are made for pairing with a white tank, an oversized shirt and a baseball cap.

Women’s High Rise Baggy Shorts, $99.95 from Levi’s, Level 1