Dark brown is a favourite dark neutral for some of my clients, who enjoy wearing it year round in seasonally appropriate fabrics. It disappeared from retail for about a decade, but made a comeback. Dark brown clothing is in short supply but it’s there if you look for it. Dark brown shoes and handbags are gaining momentum too.
Some chocolates are warm and rich, while others are bitter, cool, and dramatic. You generally see dark brown combined with neutrals like black, white, tan, navy, and earth tones, which works extremely well. It’s fab with pastels too. Personally, I like to wear dark brown with bright green, tomato red, citron, Dutch orange, turquoise, and shocking pink. That’s how I intend to wear my new chocolate Theory pants suit from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
On to some outfit inspiration. Some looks will work straight into Autumn.
1. Chocolate Animal Patterns and Black
Animal patterns are a slam dunk in brown-based palettes. The white background of this more abstract version gives it a warm-weather integrity. The black of the pattern is repeated in the black pants and loafers. The top is a belted shirtdress worn as a tunic, which is a fun on-trend combination. The cropped length of the pants and bare ankles gives it a more summery vibe too. It’s the type of outfit that you can work in a Summer air-conditioned setting that requires coverage. Gorgeously elegant.
2. Chocolate Column
Solid chocolate Summer dresses, and two-piece dresses are coming through as a fringe trend. Here’s a skirt and top co-ord in a fairly straight cut. Breezy, fluid, casual, comfy, and easy to wear. The footwear makes the outfit to my eye. The white slides brighten the outfit, while the black soles bookend the model’s hair. Add a black, white, or bright bag.
3. Patterned Chocolate Dress
If solid chocolate does not appeal to you, try it in a pattern. Here’s a lovely neutral brown botanical dress that is belted at the waist with a broad black belt. A black straw hat matches the belt. Summery gold espadrilles add shine and a relaxed summery vibe. I’d add a gold or white bag.
4. Chocolate with Cream and Lavender
Last, dark brown is fab with pastel purple, cream and a touch of navy. Here, a boxy patterned shirt picks up the colours of the palette in a fun geometric design. It’s worn untucked over roomy and wide cream pants. A cropped chocolate body warmer is layered over the top. I see cream footwear and a bag. The palette is gorgeous with the complexion of the model. Rich with her dark brown hair. Add jewellery, eyewear and watch as desired.
