How To Wear Brown And Black Together
I understand that brown and black aren’t the flashiest color combinations, but they are a great addition to any wardrobe. You know, if this color-loving gurl is telling you that you need to add brown and black into your wardrobe, then it must be true!
Wearing brown and black together is one of those style dilemmas that seems to divide people. For years, fashion “rules” told us to avoid mixing these two neutrals, but like most fashion rules, this one is outdated. The truth is, brown and black can absolutely be worn together—and when done right, they create a sophisticated, stylish look. So, here are a few ways to mix these two colors seamlessly.
This article might contain affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase after clicking on one of the shopping links, I may receive a commission. As a participant of the Amazon Associates program, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Can Brown and Black Be Worn Together?
Yes, brown and black can most definitely be worn together! In fact, these two colors complement each other beautifully. Think of them as best friends in the neutral color family—one brings warmth (brown), while the other brings an edge (black). When paired, they create a look that can feel both timeless and fresh. I glanced over at my fur baby, who is brown and black, and knew the combination looked great together.
The key to wearing brown and black together is to approach them as neutrals, which they are. Neutrals can be mixed and matched with almost anything, so there’s no reason to think that black and brown can’t be worn side by side. Some people worry that the combination will clash, but in reality, it’s all about finding the right shades and balancing the look.
I chose to wear neutral shoes with this outfit, but a pair of black shoes would have also looked great.
What Are the “Fashion Rules” About Wearing Brown and Black?
For years, we were told that brown and black don’t belong together, much like the outdated rules about not wearing white after Labor Day. Fashion evolves, and so should our understanding of these so-called rules. The old belief that brown and black clash may come from a time when fashion was more rigid, but nowadays, mixing these colors is seen as modern and chic.
As it turns out, fashion rules are more like guidelines, and the modern approach is to bend or break them to suit your style. So, don’t be afraid to experiment with wearing brown and black together. It’s all about how you style it!
The black leather handbag ties in with this outfit perfectly, but a brown bag would have also worked.
How to Wear Brown and Black Together
Now that we’ve cleared up the myth that this color combination doesn’t go together, let’s talk about how to wear them in a stylish and effortless way.
Start with Accessories
Start small if you’re hesitant about combining brown and black. Accessories are an easy way to dip your toes into the brown-and-black combination. You could wear a brown or black belt, and one of my favorite tips is to wear a pair of brown shoes with black jeans.
A handbag is another great way to mix the two without feeling like you’re going overboard. This brown and black leather tote combines the colors together effortlessly.
Use A Brown and Black Print
One of the easiest ways to wear these two colors is by wearing a print with the combination. Animal prints are an easy and chic way to incorporate the two colors into your wardrobe. Leopard print is a fabulous option, and it is a huge trend at the moment.
I’m wearing a leopard print top with denim jeans, but it would look great with black pants for a dressier option. Leopard is a classic print that can be worn dressed up or down.
Why should you add brown to your wardrobe?
The answer is simple. Brown is the earth’s color, so people who wear brown are considered strong, stable, and reliable. Just think about the opposite of strong, stable, and reliable…would you want to be thought of that way? Me neither! A person dressed in a brown dress or jacket will be considered reliable, intelligent, and rational. Think of that the next time that you have an important meeting.
Why should you add black to your wardrobe?
Once again, the answer is simple. People who wear black are considered strong and powerful. Men don’t wear black suits because they are slimming; they want to appear powerful! Black is also a color choice for people who want to be taken seriously. It sure doesn’t hurt that it can also be slimming. Lol!
Play with Textures
When you’re mixing two neutrals, adding texture is key to keeping your outfit interesting. The fluffy puffer vest looks great with a simple long sleeve top or a black turtleneck.
This cashmere and wool sweater adds a soft, fluffy texture to this look. For extra visual interest, I added the leather camel Allington tote with black handles and the plaid pumps. Combining different textures like cashmere and leather gives the outfit a luxurious, elevated vibe.
The Beauty of Neutrals
Brown and black are such versatile colors that they act as the perfect foundation for any outfit. Mixing these neutrals is a great way to build a wardrobe that feels modern, put-together, and anything but boring. Neutrals are easy to layer, match with other pieces, and can take you from season to season without feeling outdated.
When you wear brown and black together, you show that you understand fashion is about creativity and confidence, not rigid rules. You don’t need to stick to old guidelines about what goes with what—you get to decide. And if brown and black feel good together to you, then wear it confidently!
Each time you share my posts on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, AND FACEBOOK, it not only helps other ladies who might be style-challenged find my blog, but it also strengthens our community. Furthermore, I appreciate every one of you and consider you a friend.
Are You One Of The GURLS?
You’ll receive a daily email reminder from me, keeping you updated when a new blog post has gone live. In addition, a “special” email might occasionally pop into your inbox, so definitely keep an eye out for those!
To GOD Goes The Glory!
Verse Of The Day
Nehemiah 9:9 NIV
9 “You saw the suffering of our ancestors in Egypt; you heard their cry at the Red Sea.
50 Is Not Old partners with affiliate platforms where commission may be earned based on clicks and or purchases, and I would love it if you decided to use the links above. Affiliate Links help bloggers like me fund the free content we provide on our blogs. As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some products might be gifted from brands.
Love all the leopard touches!
Thank you for reminding me to read a verse everyday!
I have never worn black and brown together, so thank you for this post! I love the first outfir and will be checking it out!