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For years, black has been the fashion world’s armour; the absence of colour we reach for without question.
My wardrobe is full of it: a coat, a cashmere jumper, tailored trousers – even my summer dresses. But this season I need to step ever so slightly outside that box, into a richer, warmer territory. Brown.
Yes, the big-name designers have spoken and it’s time to banish black as the default and embrace the subtler sophistication of this season’s most flattering neutral. Whatever your skintone, black is unforgiving – but brown… brown flatters, warms, softens and brings a youthful freshness that I’ve (embarrassingly) only just realised black cannot. It’s infinitely more wearable.
There is nothing more chic than wearing it head to toe, but if that feels too bold, a simple update of your autumn wardrobe is with a single piece. Here’s my pick of the most delicious chocolate on the High Street this season…
Skirts shine on
Midi, maxi or mini, it doesn’t matter which length you go for, as long as it’s cocoa-coloured. Yep, skirts are still having their moment, and brown is the easy way to wear them. Zara’s knit design is ludicrously comfortable – and a bargain at £22.99. But my favourite has to be Albaray’s pleated A-line, the fitted waist, belt detail, and elegant side split mean it’s worth the £99 price tag.
Zara’s knit design is ludicrously comfortable – and a bargain at £22.99
Coats to crush on
If you only invest in one brown item this season, make it a coat. When it comes to outerwear, go for deep shades like chocolate, which has a luxurious, high-end feel and can instantly make an outfit look more expensive. Whether you’re in simple jeans and a white tee or a bold printed dress, it’s a shade that works with everything. I love Albaray’s short funnel-neck coat, £165 (available in sizes 8-18). If it’s a classic crombie you’re after, look no further than Peacocks, who have this longline design for just £55.
Albaray’s short funnel-neck coat (£165) would make for a great investment
Knits you need
There are plenty of simple block-colour browns on offer but I suggest you have a bit of fun and go for an Argyle, Fairisle, or something with a bit of interest — like this diamond design from Baukjen, which will look great with your jeans, or a brown skirt (as mentioned above). If cardigans are more your thing, Massimo Dutti’s Argyle is a must – 100 per cent wool and only £89.95, a great investment.
This Baukjen knitted jumper is £119 and would look great with jeans or a brown skirt
Bags of style
A bag is where I think it looks best — and I’m not the only one. The Row, Prada, Miu Miu, Gucci, and Chloé all featured rich brown accessories on their AW25 runways. Top of my wish list is Radley’s Romilly, £299 – which is big enough for all your belongings and comes with grab handles as well as a detachable crossbody strap. A buy-now, wear-for-seasons-to-come kind of investment. Looking for something more affordable? Then check out Mango’s bucket – only £29.99!
Fabulous footwear
Whatever footwear takes your fancy this season, there’s only one colour to choose from. When it comes to boots, you can’t beat Zara’s offering. These slouchy suede creations have the perfect heel height (if you’re not really a heel wearer) and are only £89.99. For trainers, there are plenty to choose from – but you can’t go wrong with these from M&S (£50). If loafers are more your thing, Mint Velvet has these in suede (£110).
