The Dark Side of Summer Fashion

I feel uncomfortable in colour. Even when I wear a red top (at Christmas, only ever then) and people say it suits me I wouldn't ever go out and buy another piece in that colour. It's not that I can't take a compliment I just feel better in dark, muted colours.

This sartorial mind-set is problematic in summer when the colour palette is naturally bright. I've attempted to fit in with the tanned, white clad, straw hat wearing In Crowd but that kind of look just doesn't work for everyone. It's always best to follow the second rule of fashion and wear what you feel comfortable in. What's the first, you ask? Why that's take risks of course - but that's another story.

Lily Collins turned up to an event in LA last month wearing the darkest summery outfit ever. She pulled it off, naturally, and basically proves that dressing for summer doesn't have to mean florals, bright prints or white.

Khaki is the perfect shade for colour-phobes who want a hint of the bright stuff. Lily brings summer to this ensemble by bearing a bit of skin - in this subtle case by tying her t-shirt into a crop top style - and look at those incredible shoes. They're black and they're pretty solid looking but the 'cut-outs' make them suitable for any season.

Back to the skirt. It's the perfect match for Lily's tee and incredible leather jacket, but I can totally see it with a pair of high white espadrilles and a cute white top. So, versatile. Piece of the summer perhaps?

How do you find dressing for summer? Do you embrace floaty summer dresses and cut-offs? Or do you stare at your wardrobe full of black jeans and jumpers (like me) and literally have nothing to wear?

See how the rest of the guests at the LA Film Fest dressed in the gallery below: