The neutral shade is incredibly versatile.
At some point in time, someone, somewhere, made up a handful of fashion faux pas that never quite made sense. What gives with the “rule” that white shouldn’t be worn after Labor Day? Sydney Sweeney’s winter whites say otherwise. Or that navy clothing can only be paired with items within a certain color range? Myriad navy blue outfit ideas shut down that theory. We also know that when it comes to figuring out what colors go with brown clothes, you’ve got options.
Brown is considered neutral, meaning it not only pairs well with other neutrals and earth tones, such as black, cream, white, and olive green but works to balance out brighter statement colors, too. Still, there are certain shade combinations that you may find more flattering than others. For instance, vibrant oranges and reds shine against deep chocolate and copper-esque brown hues. Blue sits opposite brown on the color wheel and opposites attract, but a rich brown will also complement a naturally cool gray. When combining brown with black, you get a classic, albeit moody, effect.
To find out what to wear with a brown shirt, pants, and other wardrobe pieces, keep scrolling for 12 complementary brown clothing ideas.
Black and Brown
Rather than opt for an all-black look, mix things up by styling a brown leather jacket over your LBD. According to stylists, brown leather jackets are more wearable than their black counterparts and, for that reason, are trending.
Yellow and Brown
It’s true that yellow tends to steal the spotlight, but it doesn’t have to. If you’re looking to tone things down and make those bright pieces feel less in your face, style them with brown staples with a hint of warmth (e.g. copper).
Purple and Brown
Brown is an inherently warm color, which makes it an ideal color scheme for cozier garments, such as knits and sweater dresses. While the color works well on its own, combining it with a deep purple creates an elegant, regal effect. Fresh, sweet, and airy more your vibe? Go for a lighter lavender instead.
Light Gray and Brown
Add a sense of whimsy to your standard three-piece suit by swapping out your jacket with a fun and fashionable cape. Not only is this outfit great for those in-between temperatures, but brown and gray are a sophisticated match.
Kelly Green and Brown
Go ahead and take a note from nature—this brown and green pairing is pure perfection. To contrast the bulkiness of a cozy sweater, vest, and wide-leg pants, consider a sleek statement shoe like these green pumps.
Cream and Brown
Tired of cottagecore or want to change up your look a bit? Then, simply throw a sweater vest over your brown prairie dress for a light academia aesthetic with loafers as the finishing touch. In terms of shade pairings, white pops against just about any color, but a cream vest is more similar to brown and creates a cool, understated style.
Red and Brown
If the striking combination of black and red isn’t for you, try brown and red (you won’t be disappointed). It’s both subtle and standout, which is probably why it’s a popular pairing from season to season.
Blue and Brown
If you don’t own a pair of brown knee-high boots yet, what are you waiting for? Coordinate with leggings, a miniskirt, or whatever moves you. We’re partial to this denim number which feels ’70s-inspired.
Charcoal Gray and Brown
A leather brown midiskirt and medium gray knit is the ultimate fall outfit. This shade and fabric combo creates contrast and interest. To adapt it to spring, simply swap out leather for silk and replace your cozy top for a sweater vest.
Light Green and Brown
Cargo pants are back, and we are loving this brown suede iteration. A brown striped shirt and puffer vest stay within the same color family. However, to keep it from feeling too muted, a green head scarf adds a tinge of brightness and a hit of dopamine.
Orange and Brown
A cozy knit and a sequined maxi skirt are at once casual and dressed-up, making this outfit transition well from day to night. Against the sweater’s light brown color, the orange skirt really stands out.
Pink and Brown
Brown and neon pink might not sound like they go together, but here’s visual proof they most certainly do. Unlike the brown leather jacket you saw earlier in our list, this one qualifies as burgundy. Its reddish-brown hue works well with the vibrant pink of the skirt and shoes.
