However well-intentioned I go into the autumn season, with high hopes and grand ambitions of curating a whole new look for myself, I inevitably fall back on the colour I can always trust: black. While the classic hue is undeniably elegant, effortless and versatile, wearing it on rotation through the dreary cold months can begin to feel a bit, well, mundane. Much to my relief, a new colour has entered the autumn chat, and it’s an easy swap for my black favourites. Yes, it’s true, brown is officially the must-have colour this season.
As a substitute for black, brown pieces offer a cosier, softer and—dare I say it—more polished alternative. It removes the hardness of black staples, and instead feels altogether softer and very seasonally appropriate. And with the number of brown style options available this season, from designer and high street favourites alike, I’m definitely sold on introducing this colour into my cold weather wardrobe.
So the question is: how to style it? As I mentioned, brown is a blissfully easy swap for your black go-tos. Pair with cream, white, navy, greens—pretty much anything. Personally, I’ve invested in a brown wool coat this season, and I’m surprised to find that it’s actually even more versatile than my black style from last season. But if you’re in search of more brown outfit inspiration, you’re in luck—I’ve scoured Instagram to see what our favourite influencers are doing with brown pieces this autumn, and you’ll be happy to hear there’s outfit inspo for every aesthetic and occassion. Happy shopping.
1. Cardigan + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: I’m such a huge fan of wearing a cardigan buttoned up as a top, and this is such a great example of using that trick as the basis of a monochromatic look. Thanks to the brown tones, the whole thing is much softer than if it was in all black.
ALIGNE
Clay Waisted Cardigan
The cinched waist is a real bonus.
Abercrombie & Fitch
A&f Quinn Tailored Pant
Such an elevated trouser for such a reasonable price.
& Other Stories
Square-Toe Ballet Flats
A satin brown flat? How chic.
TOTEME
T-Lock Croc-Effect Leather Shoulder Bag
This rich, dark brown croc-effect leather is heaven.
Nobodys Child
Gold Link Chain Necklace
Brown pieces work particularly well with gold jewellery.
2. Knitted Dress + Wool Coat
Style Notes: Knit dresses are a cold weather essential, and this mole brown tone is especially versatile. I love how it works with another autumn staple—the wool coat.
Nobody’s Child
Brown Crew Neck Wool Knitted Midi Jumper Dress
Jigsaw
Wool Maxi City Coat | Chocolate
Bring on the brown layers.
AEYDE
Henry Leather Knee Boots
Knee-high boots are very much trending this season.
& Other Stories
Classic Leather Shoulder Bag
Such a sophisticated bag for a high street find.
3. Leather Skirt + Jumper + Strappy Heels
Style Notes: One of my favourite iterations of brown is leather, which is why I’m obsessed with this brown leather skirt ensemble. The contrast of the shiny leather with the ultra soft knit is so delicious.
Arket
V-Neck Merino Jumper – Dark Brown – Arket Gb
I’m a huge fan of a slouchy fit jumper.
The Frankie Shop
Hedi Leather Wrap Skirt
The kind of leather skirt you can wear to the office or to weekend drinks.
AEYDE
Elise Suede Sandals
A brown suede heel is so elegant.
Demellier
The Miami Clutch in Mocha Suede
4. Cords + Jumper + Loafers
Style Notes: Recently, I’ve spotted so many influencers embrace the Seventies style of wide-leg fit corduroy trousers. I love how Liv has layered hers with pale beige tones—it creates such a cosy autumn look.
M&S Collection
Cloud-Yarn Ribbed V-Neck Split Hem Jumper
I’ll always love M&S knitwear.
MANGO
Short-Sleeved Cotton T-Shirt
FRAME
Le Easy Flare Stretch Cotton-Blend Corduroy Flared Pants
This rich brown is irresistable.
Massimo Dutti
Leather Penny Loafers
A penny loafer really rounds out the preppy tones of this outfit.
5. Turtleneck Jumper + Tailored Trousers + Trench Coat
Style Notes: I’m bracing for the really cold weather, and this look is the one I’m planning on recreating once the brisk winds really pick up. It’s so effortlessly sophisticated and classic (and practical), you could really wear for any occasion.
ARCH4
+ Net Sustain World’s End Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater
It almost has me longing for colder weather.
MANGO
Double-Breasted Trench Coat
So many of our editors swear by these Reformation trousers.
Reformation
Ani Ruched Loafer
I love the ruched leather.
6. Jeans + Jumper + Heeled Mules + Suede Bag
Style Notes: Yes, brown jeans really are a thing. My advice is to follow this example and opt for lighter wash jeans so you can layer with chocolate-toned knits.
Reformation
Cashmere Boyfriend Sweater
Who can resist a soft cashmere jumper?
Toteme
Twisted Seam Denim Full Length Washed Beige
A minimalist’ dream pair of jeans.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules
Demellier
The Large Tokyo Tote in Mocha Suede