If you ever find yourself stuck in a style rut, playing with fun new color combinations is a great way to liven up your wardrobe. In this series, we feature unique and unexpected color combinations, then give you stylish outfit ideas so you can try out these color combos yourself. For more color-centric outfit ideas, be sure to check out our previous posts on combining Red + Pink, Mint + Mustard, Peach + Gray, Orange + Blue, Fuchsia + Teal, Olive + Coral, Black + Orange, Purple + Yellow and Red + Green.
For this color combo post, we’re going to do something a little different by combining two classic neutrals that are oftentimes considered a fashion faux pas when paired together. However, we’re here to tell you to forget all about those preconceived fashion “rules”: wearing black and brown together is not only chic and fashion-forward, but it’s a super-simple way to spice up an all-neutral outfit.
Need some outfit ideas before you rock this color combo? Simply scroll on down to check out four campus-ready outfits featuring brown and black:
Outfit #1: Back to School
Make a good impression on your first day of spring semester classes by wearing this classically stylish black and brown ensemble. Start by pairing a striped sweater with some bootcut jeans. A faux leather biker jacket adds some edge, while sleek ankle booties add a subtle boost of height. Accessorize with a cute bird-shaped necklace, then grab a tasseled cross-body bag to complete this look.
Product Info: Jacket- Tobi, Jeans- Mango, Necklace- Juicy Couture, Top- Romwe, Shoes- H&M, Bag- Dorothy Perkins
Outfit #2: Friday Night Film Fest
Looking for a low-key outfit that still packs an uber-trendy punch? Try something like the outfit below. First, take a sequined collar blouse and pair it with some unique corduroy shorts. Sheer tights add coverage, while suede smoking flats are a trendy and casual choice. Next, layer on a leopard print cardigan. Leopard is a way to wear this color combination, as it already incorporates black and brown shades! Accessorize with a pair of geometric earrings and you’ll have a fashion-forward look to rock on a casual night out.
Product Info: Top- Chic Nova, Cardigan- Tobi, Tights- White House | Black Market, Shorts- The Outnet, Shoes- Steve Madden, Earrings- Pink Mascara
Outfit #3: Afternoon Study Sesh
When it comes to choosing what to wear during study breaks, comfort is definitely key, but with this look, you won’t have to sacrifice style either! Start by pairing an adorable heart print tunic with some basic black leggings for a casual, yet fashionable look. Add a pair of statement-making lace-up boots, as well as a dark brown drawstring bag. Complete this cute and cozy look by accessorizing with a few mixed metal rings.
Product Info: Tunic- ModCloth, Rings- ASOS, Bag- ASOS, Boots- Dirty Laundry, Leggings- H&M
Outfit #4: Meeting with Your Advisor
This final outfit is perfect for an occasion where you want to look stylish, polished, and presentable (e.g. an internship, class presentation, or advisor meeting). First, look for a dress that incorporates both black and brown elements, like this printed frock from F21. Pair the dress with a sharp, camel-colored blazer and add some opaque black tights. Mary Jane-style pumps add interest, while a cuff watch is a fashionable and practical choice. For the finishing touch, accessorize with a pair of classic pearl studs.
Product Info: Dress- Forever 21, Blazer- Nordstrom, Watch- Target, Earrings- American Apparel, Shoes- DSW, Tights- Uniqlo
What do you think?
Would you ever wear black and brown together? What do you think of these outfits? Which one is your favorite? How would you wear these colors together? What other color combos would you like to see featured here? Remember to leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
I have to say that while I’d like to think that I’m open to most things, I just can’t stand the look of brown and black together in an outfit like this. I mean, I get that they’re both neutrals, but they’re so different and have different looks that go with each. I love the looks that you came up with, I just would have picked different colors.
Black and brown are a great combination. Black top & brown blazer/sweater/jacket, black tights with brown loafers/heels, black sweater with leopard print skirt, camel & black striped dress/shirt with black tights or leggings.