Edward Berthelot
Photo: Getty Images
Foc Kan
Christian Vierig
Photo: Getty Images
Arnold Jerocki
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
Stephane Cardinale – Corbis
Over the past few years, I’ve had something of a style evolution and it’s been spurred by colour. While I’ve known what shapes and styles I like to wear for quite some time, I realised that although I appreciate monochrome outfits, I was craving warmer tones. I’ve always been a lover of neutrals but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realised that I don’t necessarily want a wardrobe devoid of colour. I found myself gravitating to earthy and warm hues that still feel wearable and neutral, especially on darker skin. This realisation coincided with the dominance of brown at the tail end of last year, so my interest was piqued.
Between espresso, warm tobacco shades and rich cocoa (akin to melted chocolate), brown has been one of the leading colours on the runway along with ochre. After spending the past year drawn to every coffee-hued item in sight, I’ve come to realise that brown has pipped it to the post as my new favourite colour. I’ve since come up with many brown outfit colour combinations, and ways to incorporate brown into my wardrobe. While it may demand more thought than say black or white, the options are aplenty and so inspired. If you’re also enamoured by the many brown pieces on offer, keep on reading for a guide to wearing 2023’s most celebrated colour. I’ve studied it carefully so you don’t have to!
1. Ecru Tones
There’s something complimentary about pale colours against brown tones. Instead of a stark white, try ecru, oaty hues and stone colours that mimic the natural colour of linen. It’s my favourite combination this season.
Ninety Percent
Priam Dress in Enoki Mushroom
£240
This style is one of my most worn dresses of 2023. I wore it with heeled sandals in the summer and with heeled boots now.
COS
Funnel Neck Waisted Wool Jumper
£95
This is such a classic piece but if you look closely you’ll notice the taught and thicker waistband which gives this style added shape.
Aligne
Mysti Fluted Midaxi Knitted Skirt
I’d style this co-ord with knee-high brown boots.
Me+Em
Merino Cashmere A-Line Cable Skirt
Comprising 90% merino wool and 10% cashmere it’s bound to keep you toasty.
2. Yellow
Next to brown, canary hues are also having a moment and it just so happens to be a good pairing for brown. Ochres, pale yellow and mustard are all distinctive colourways that work in harmony. The subtlety of brown with the brightness of yellow is a combination that never fails.
By Malene Birger
+ Net Sustain Abruzza Pleated Organic Silk Shirt
£460
The joyful colour and ’80s plisse is bound to put a smile on your face.
Mother of Pearl
+ Net Sustain June Tiered Gathered Tencel Lyocell-Blend Maxi Dress
£395
Mother of Pearl offers a slightly richer yellow.
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& Other Stories
Pointy Sock Boots
£145
This beige-toned yellow will suit monochrome outfits.
Tove
Raquel Stretch-Silk Cloqué Maxi Dress
£995
Tove’s designs are exquisite.
3. Blue Denim
Blue denim can act as a neutral, so if you’re ever in doubt, opt for pared-back outfit combinations such as a white shirt and blue jeans with brown accessories. To be specific, deep indigo denim and cocoa brown is an unmatched pairing.
Arket
Dahlia Straight Jeans
£87
Deep indigo always looks great with brown.
Agolde
Hilla Organic-Cotton Blend Denim Maxi Skirt
£300
Although denim skirts are a trend focus for 2023, this piece feels timeless.
Mango
Jeans Culotte High Waist
£36
Just add a crisp white shirt and brown boots!
Mango
Fitted Denim Jacket
£60
This jacket calls for a double denim look.
4. Grey Melange
Grey tones are dominating this winter and lucky for us grey and brown is a match made in heaven. I much prefer charcoal tones as they feel refined and sophisticated as compared to marl grey, which often boasts a casual lilt.
& Other Stories
Voluminous Belted Wool Coat
£225
This coat looks incredibly premium.
The Tartan Blanket Company
Lambswool Blanket Scarf in Charcoal Melange
£79
My fallback winter outfit consists of a black wool coat, a charcoal scarf and a brown bag.
Arket
Roll-Neck Cashmere Jumper
£179
Invest in classic knitwear now and wear it for many winters to come.
The Reformation
Odelia Cashmere Midi Dress
£348
Pair this smart dress with a Victoriana blouse underneath and a dark brown coat.
5. Green
Many green pigments meld beautifully with the rich undertones of brown. From bottle greens to chartreuse and khaki, you’re bound to find a well-matched pairing. Match brown tops with green skirts (and vice versa) for styling options that mimic nature and feel seasonally appropriate. This type of tonal styling can provide an introduction to saturated hues for those of us who are more familiar with monochrome palettes.
Mango
Cotton Pockets Jumpsuit
£80
A smartened utilitarian look in the chicest green.
Rails
Joelle Top
£148
This season many tops feature ruched elements.
Reformation
Maysen Lace-Trimmed Silk-Charmeuse Maxi Dress
£505
The most stunning colourway and drop.
Nobodys Child
Khaki Green Satin Lace trim Midaxi Dress
£88
While this dress is intended to be worn as a bridesmaids frock, I wear mine in the evenings.
Next Up: The Expensive-Looking Colour Fashion People Are Wearing on Repeat This Winter
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