Wearing black and brown used to be a major fashion faux pas, but some fashion rules practically beg to be broken. In my opinion, wearing that color combo happens to be one of them.
Given that black and brown are both neutrals, I think they can be worn together as long as you go about it the right way. They’re both great hues to wear throughout the fall and winter months, and because the colors are such closet staples, it’s likely you have a lot of pieces that you can mix and match.
Below, I’m some creative ways to style black and brown together to create chic outfits. All of these looks are elevated and timeless, making them perfect for any type of occasion. Plus, they all pair well with a variety of shoes, whether you’re a white sneaker girly or you love the look of classic boots — the styling options really are endless.
How to Style Black and Brown Outfits
Start with an Anchor Piece
Starting with an anchor piece makes pairing black and brown easier. An anchor piece is an item that functions as the foundation of your outfit. Think of it as a starting point from which you’ll build the rest of your look.
I often use black jeans as an anchor piece when putting together a black and brown outfit. (For more ways to style black jeans, check out my post on what to wear with black jeans.)
Play with Tones, Prints, and Textures
To elevate your black and brown outfit, play around with different tones, prints, and textures.
Try mixing and matching different shades of brown to add some dimension to your look. For example, a black outfit with a camel coat and brown boots is timeless, or throw on dark brown faux leather pants, a black top, and a tan hat.
Another fun way to flaunt this color combination is to wear a piece that incorporates a mix of brown and black. Something like a leopard print top or a plaid coat can seamlessly blend black and brown to create a trendy look.
Avoid Bold and Bright Colors
The key to pulling off a brown and black outfit is to avoid trying to work in bold or bright colors. Dive head-first into this chic color combination and stick with neutrals to keep things streamlined and classic.
7 Black and Brown Outfits
Black Jeans + a Khaki Sweater
One of my favorite ways to style black jeans in the colder months is to pair them with a light brown or khaki sweater. This simple look is a prime example of why some fashion rules are meant to be broken.
Complete this outfit by adding some gold jewelry, like this layered necklace, and some black suede booties (I own and love this pair.)
Black Cropped Sweater + a Plaid or Camel Mini Skirt
I love those first few weeks of fall when the weather is still warm enough to wear a short skirt, but cool enough for a sweater. Add a pair of tall boots and you’ll have a fun seasonal outfit that goes from day to night with ease.
The right skirt can be a great anchor piece for putting together a stylish black and brown outfit. You can mix things up by opting for a plaid skirt, or go for a modern, trendy look with a camel skirt. Then, just add a black cropped sweater and black over-the-knee boots.
Brown Bodysuit + High-Waisted Black Jeans
This is another simple black and brown outfit that effortlessly goes from day to night. Start with a brown bodysuit, add a classic pair of black high-rise kick flare jeans, then top things with a tie-front cardigan.
Or for a wildly fun look, slip into this leopard-print bodysuit instead (perfect for a girls night out.) Wearing brown and black together can be as basic or as vibrant as you want.
Brown Faux Leather Pants + a Black Bodysuit
I love wearing faux leather pants throughout the cooler months. They’re surprisingly comfortable and they make any outfit look more elegant.
For a black and brown outfit that looks on point, pair brown faux leather pants with a long sleeve black bodysuit (have you picked up on my love for bodysuits yet?) Accessorize with simple gold hoops or a preppy headband.
This look is perfect for a date night or drinks with friends. Also, you could easily swap the faux leather pants for faux leather leggings if you want to feel even more cozy.
Brown Sweater Dress + Black Boots
When you feel like dressing up a bit, lean into the black and brown color combination with either this mock neck midi sweater dress or this brown mini sweater dress, then slip on these knee-high black suede boots.
This would look perfect for a holiday event, or a special dinner (like Thanksgiving.)
Brown Satin Skirt + a Black Sweater and Black Boots
Another look I love during this time of year? A brown satin midi skirt with a knit sweater and boots. It gives off a fancy feel but is still comfortable and practical to wear all day.
Satin skirts are really popular right now, and they’re often worn with a cami and strappy sandals, but for a more fall-friendly look, opt for a cozy cardigan and boots instead.
Black Cropped Turtleneck + Black Leggings and a Camel Coat
A good camel coat is a fall wardrobe staple. It’s a versatile piece that instantly elevates any outfit and it can be worn all the way through spring.
This camel coat has been one of my go-to pieces for a couple of years now. Style it with a black cropped turtleneck and basic black leggings.
To finish off this look, you could wear a pair of black velvet flats (for a dressier vibe), but black booties would work too.
What are your favorite ways to wear black and brown together?
Do you love wearing black and brown together too? If so, what are some of your favorite ways to wear this color combination? Let me know in the comment section below!
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