How to Wear Brown: Easy Color Combinations That Feel Modern and Chic

Fendi

Brown wasn’t always a favorite color.

In fact, brown was once considered one of the least liked colors, according to research. For many years, it felt outdated or too closely associated with fall.

That changed a few seasons ago, when brown became trendy. And when a color becomes trendy, something interesting happens: brands start offering it everywhere, in more styles, more fabrics, more price points, and especially in many different shades.

Today, we’re not only seeing the classic warm autumn brown, but also cooler browns that feel fresh and modern. Women discovered the color, and many started to love it.

This season, brown is often the first color to sell out. Boots, sweaters, skirts: brown pieces disappear quickly.

Why Brown Is Easier to Wear Than You Think

Even with all this popularity, I still hear the same concerns from many women:

  • “I don’t know how to match brown with other colors.”

  • “Brown feels very fall and winter to me.”

  • “I’m not sure it works for my style.”

Just the other day, I was doing a photoshoot at my local boutique and a client was trying on the same brown pants I already own. She was wearing them with an off-white sweater and wasn’t convinced.

When I told her how often I plan to wear those pants, including in the Summer, she was genuinely surprised. She had no idea that silky brown pants could work beyond fall.

That’s when I started showing her how versatile brown really is.

Colors That Look Beautiful With Brown

Here are some of my favorite color combinations with brown: modern, chic, and very easy to wear:

  • Brown and red - A beautiful and slightly unexpected combination.

Saint Laurent

Balmain

Gabriela Hearst

Christopher John Rodgers

Tod’s

  • Brown and light blue - Elegant, fresh, and always chic.

Brunello Cucinelli

  • Brown and pink - Modern and soft at the same time.

Fendi

Giorgio Armani

  • Brown and butter yellow - Light, warm, and very current.

Eric Bombart

  • Brown and white - Less contrast than black and white, which makes the outfit feel softer. Think a graphic T-shirt or a simple tank top.

Chloé

I could go on and on, brown works with far more colors than we usually imagine.

Can You Wear Brown in Spring and Summer?

Yes, absolutely.

Brown is not only a Fall or Winter color.

When you choose lighter fabrics, softer shades, or pair it with fresh colors, brown works beautifully in warmer months.

Think:

  • Brown silk or linen pants

  • Brown skirts with white, pink, or light blue tops

  • Brown accessories with summer dresses

Once you start seeing brown as a neutral, it becomes incredibly easy to style year-round.

Why Brown Is So Popular Right Now

One of the best things about brown being trendy is not the trend itself, it’s the variety.

We’re seeing:

  • Many different shades (warm, cool, light, deep)

  • More styles and fabrics

  • Options at many price points

That makes it easier than ever to find a brown piece that truly works for your style and your lifestyle.

Brown doesn’t have to feel boring, heavy, or seasonal.

It’s an easy neutral, softer than black, and surprisingly versatile.

When styled with intention, brown feels modern, chic, and timeless.

What’s your favorite way to wear brown?

All images Fall Winter 2025 Collections, via Tagwalk


Hi, I’m Marcia Crivorot, a Personal Stylist based in NY. Once a month, I send newsletters featuring style tips, recommended brands, and a shopping guide. Unlock previous editions of my newsletters and receive my emails firsthand by subscribing.

SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTERS

Disclosure: Remember that I link products and companies based on their quality, my personal opinion, my experience, and my professional expertise. Some of the links in my posts are affiliate links, and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a small commission. The decision is yours, and whether or not you buy something is entirely up to you.

Next
Next

Triangle Scarves: A Small Accessory with a Lot of Impact