The Color of the Season Also Happens to Be a Chic Alternative to Black

I used to scoff at the idea of brown as a hot, “It” color—I mean, it’s brown. But, in the past year or so, it’s become one of the primary colors I want in my wardrobe. Not just any shade of brown, though. No, more specifically, I wanted a deep, rich, almost velvety, and outright delicious chocolate shade. (Blame it on my undying love for flourless chocolate cake.)

Well, it wasn’t tough for me to find pieces that fit the bill, because all of a sudden, “chocolate,” is the word I was hearing at press previews, seeing on linesheets for the fall season—along with “mocha” and “espresso”…I guess we can thank Sabrina Carpenter for that one? Then, all of a sudden, these deep shades of brown were everywhere—from cloud-like cashmere sweaters and slouchy brown suede bags to investment-worthy wool coats and more. Plus, Kendall Jenner wore the trend at Milan Fashion Week when she was attending the Bottega Veneta spring/summer 2025 show. So, I’m calling it: Brown is the color of the season, and it’s very much worth a spot in your wardrobe.

To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, I found the best chocolate brown wardrobe pieces across categories to shop now. Find your favorites, below.

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Bags

If I’m being 100 percent honest, this is where you should start when it comes to investing in a chic piece. Diamonds may be forever, but classic handbags are, too. Also…who could say no to that type of combination? I know I couldn’t—and these gorgeous styles, paired with beautiful fine jewelry—are hard to resist.

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Shoes

Another great way to incorporate this color trend—especially if you’re not ready to douse your wardrobe in the perfect shade of chocolate fondue—is with your footwear. ’Tis the season to wear your best leather boots, and of course that includes some amazing styles in this timeless hue. That said, you don’t have to have brown suede or leather shoes to pull off the trend—it looks just as good in a sneaker or loafer, too.

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Coats

When I think of what’s worth investing in for the colder months of the year, my mind naturally goes straight to outerwear. And honestly, I’m loving a good coat these days—and a beautiful design can solidify a winning outfit with a single step. Wrap yourself up in one of these beauties and call it a day. These are my current favorites.

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Jackets

Of course, when you already have yourself an investment coat, the next major piece is a chic jacket to keep as a go-to layering piece. I love the idea of a cool, brown leather jacket to break up the monotony of standard (albeit timeless) blacks without compromising on the cool. If that’s not your thing, even a pretty quilted number to some New England charm styled with a great pair of jeans will look great this season.

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Sweaters

My favorite part of the fall season is being able to pull out all of my beloved knitwear from storage once again. Cozy, chic, and just oh-so touchable, the right sweater can change your life—and I stand by that statement. Yeah, it’s fine to bundle up in a classic black turtleneck or a heather gray crewneck, a chocolate brown sweater will bring a touch of warmth to your ensembles without having to lean into the jewel tones or other vibrant hues. In other words, these will go with everything you wear, no matter what you style them with.

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Tops

Once I started going down the rabbit hole of chocolate brown, I couldn’t ignore the downright stunning tops that brands are putting out this season. Style these with a classic pencil skirt or trousers to instantly level up your ensembles for fall.

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Pants

Yes, you’re going to want a stylish alternative to those classic black trousers. In wool, satin, denim, or any other type of material, this color just adds another layer that makes everything look so much more expensive than it is. It’s the only shade I want my wardrobe in this season, so why shouldn’t that apply to my pants?

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Skirts

Okay, maybe you’re not a pants person—or you just love good skirts. Either way, I guarantee these will look and feel amazing every time you wear them. I love the idea of wearing this color with a pretty lavender or deep green. That said, brown is a neutral, which means you could also pair it with other colors (or perhaps a leopard print, even!). The choice is yours.

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Dresses

Finally, there are the dresses. Whether it’s a sleek work dress for the office or a fall wedding guest option for any ceremonies you’re attending, there’s no doubt this shade is a winner. Perhaps you want to style one with one of the aforementioned sweaters or coats for a monochromatic look? I wouldn’t blame you if you did.