This autumn, fashion enthusiasts can't stop talking about one colour: chocolate brown. While this deep, rich shade has always been a staple for the cold-weather season, it's particularly prevalent this year, especially on the runways and among style-setters. Its widespread popularity is well-deserved, as chocolate brown is a timeless and adaptable colour. It shares the versatility of black but with a warm, welcoming undertone and inherently luxe feel.
Whether in the form of suede, leather, or satin, or on handbags, shoes, outerwear, or skirts, chocolate brown brings an extra layer of opulence and indulgence to every outfit. Plus, fashion people from Paris to New York have consistently demonstrated that you can mix and match chocolate brown with various colours, from butter yellow to navy, instead of just wearing it head to toe.
So how do you approach styling this season's top colour? One way is to swap out your black staple pieces for brown alternatives and then style them as you would if they were black. To provide examples, I spent countless hours scrolling through Instagram and curated a selection of the eight best chocolate-brown outfit ideas. Whether you've already added chocolate-brown pieces to your fall wardrobe and need styling inspiration or you're simply curious about integrating 2025's hottest hue into your style, the upcoming information will resonate with you.
1. Cape + Suit + Suede Bag
Style notes: Capes are making a strong statement this season, whether part of coats or worn on their own, adding a stylish twist to simple outfits. Nnenna Echem's outfit perfectly demonstrates how a chocolate-brown cape can elevate a coordinated blazer-and-trousers ensemble, giving it a contemporary feel. Plus, her decision to pair the navy set with more chocolate-brown elements, such as the suede tote bag and ballet flats, showcases the harmonious combination of the two hues.
Shop the Look:
This is such a cosy style that will go with so many different looks.
Navy is a great alternative to black for a softer finish.
Style with a tucked in white t-shirt for a casual look, or pair with the matching blazer and a basic cami for something more formal.
Such a chic, go-to every day style.
2. Jumper + Leather Skirt + Heels
Style notes: Every autumn, I come across numerous black-and-brown outfits. One of my favourites is Sylvie Mus's ensemble, featuring a cozy brown high V-neck sweater paired with a chic leather midi skirt. Adding strappy sandals and a leather clutch as accessories enhances the overall simple yet sophisticated look, proving that less truly is more.
Shop the Look:
I love the button front detailing.
Such an affordable price for such a staple wardrobe piece.
My Charles and Keith heels are some of the comfiest I own.
A statement earring just gives that finishing touch.
3. Miniskirt + Trench Coat + Knit Top
Style notes: When aiming to create a sophisticated autumnal ensemble, a winning combination involves pairing a trench coat with a brown miniskirt. Elevate the look by incorporating a pop of vibrancy with a yellow shirt, as the blend of chocolate brown and yellow exudes chic autumn vibes. For added visual interest, draw inspiration from content creator Emmanuelle Koffi and incorporate subtle buttery-yellow tones through your handbag and preppy flats.
Shop the Look:
This will easily be one of your most worn new season styles.
We're taking inspo from Emmanuelle and opting for a preppy, pleated style.
My trench coat is my most worn coat I own and it's one I bring out year after year without fail.
Butter yellow is so on trend right now.
4. Jumper + Elastic-Waist Trousers + Trainers
Style notes: Even a simple chocolate-brown sweater can elevate your casual outfit when styled just right. I love how stylist and content creator Marianne Smyth combined the brown knit with navy wide-leg trousers, a colour combination that always exudes luxury. What ties the look together is the addition of a green suede bag, which complements the brown and creates a calming effect. For footwear? Opt for white trainers to perfectly complement the sporty and laid-back pants.
Shop the Look:
Such an affordable jumper that will be such a staple piece in your wardrobe.
A drawstring trouser can easily be dressed up or down.
Toteme do such sleek, minimalist pieces.
We're predicting khaki suede bags to be the next biggest trend.
5. Monochromatic Three-Piece Suit + Flats
Style notes: When getting dressed for a day filled with important meetings, deciding what to wear can be tricky. This is where opting for an easy all-chocolate-brown ensemble comes into play. Choose sophisticated pieces like a well-tailored blazer, a stylish vest, and elegant wide-leg trousers. The beauty of this ensemble is its versatility—you can mix and match these pieces with other items in your wardrobe. A three-piece chocolate-brown suit offers an endless array of fashionable outfits for all occasions.
Shop the Look:
My brown blazer is one of my most worn pieces no matter the season.
There's just something about a waistcoat that's so effortlessly sleek.
Arket is my high-street go-to for tailoring.
I absolutely adore these Jil Sander ballet flats, the attention to detail is impeccable.
6. Satin Miniskirt + Long-Sleeve Top + Mules
Style notes: Don't feel like you have to pack away your skirts just because it's autumn. Embrace the season by choosing a chocolate-brown mini or midi and pair it with a warm jumper or a sophisticated blazer. Complete the look with a bold pair of mules for a playful twist and a neutral bag to create a well-balanced ensemble.
Shop the Look:
I'd pair with sheer tights and knee-high boots.
This can easily be dressed up or down.
A pointed heel is so sleek.
An investment worthy buy.
7. Suede Jacket + Studded Belt + Baggy Jeans
Style notes: Don't be fooled; chocolate brown doesn't have to be boring. Just opt for a suede jacket. The buttery softness and luxuriousness of the suede fabric effortlessly bring sophistication to a casual T-shirt-and-jeans combination. Finish the ensemble with a studded belt for an added flair that exudes confidence and style.
Shop the Look:
Suede jackets are so popular right now and will be a piece that won't go out of style.
Simple and chic.
This is such a versatile belt that can be worn to achieve so many different looks.
Wide-leg jeans are such a great option for an easy, go-to look.
8. Maxi Dress + Jumper + Belt
Style notes: While the temperatures are still warm, you can wear a chocolate-brown maxi dress, ideally in a drop-waist style. Layer a lighter-brown jumper over your shoulders to keep the look relaxed, and add a belt to create visual interest.
Shop the Look:
A knitted dress is so versatile and will see you through this season and next.
Such a good price for such a good quality knit.
A western style belt is a great way to create a focal point to a look.
Zara get it right every time with their boots.
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