Welcome to Our Forever Love Affair With Brown Monochrome Outfits

Getty/ Yuliya Christensen
Getty/ Yuliya Christensen
Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

Brown is such a sumptuous color, it has become something of a fixture in our closets. There's just something about a brown satin skirt or a pair of chocolate-colored leather pants that looks so rich, we make it a goal to incorporate these layers into our wardrobe. It appeals to maximalists and minimalists alike, and when brown separates are combined into a monochrome look, now that's a sartorial delight.

The key to mastering a monochrome moment is to vary the fabrics, shades, and silhouettes of the separates. Sure, it sounds easier said than done, but fret not because we included some styling options ahead. Whether it's a corset top tucked into wide-leg trousers or a midi knit dress worn under a dramatic trench coat, the magic is in creating visual contrast that adds interest and allows individual pieces to stand out. While brown clothing has year-round appeal, it tends to come to life in the fall and winter. Perhaps this is because we have a penchant for a more muted palette during the cold seasons.

Scroll on for some stunning looks that interpret brown monochrome in fresh new ways, and for the foundational pieces that will help you achieve your perfect broutfit. (See what we did there?)

Center Your Look Around One Statement Piece

Sometimes, the magic is in what lays underneath. This cardigan is a slinky way to do fall with the gold logo plaque dialing up the allure. The brown trousers add a subtle visual contrast that enhance the elegance of the top. With a statement separate like this, it's best to keep everything else relatively pared down.

Finish With a Coat That Needs No Introduction

Sometimes, it's the layers. Other times, it's your outerwear that will do all the talking. A brown trench coat paired with tall brown boots makes for a forward-thinking ensemble that exudes confidence and an air of mystery.

Combine Your Brown Separates Into an Office-Ready Look

Comforting and cool, this turtleneck and trousers combo is a stylish way to ease back into a return to the office. I love that the loud tie-dye silhouette is balanced with a solid brown color underneath, creating a visually interesting look.

Throw on a Matching Set For On or Off-Duty Style

A matching set is an easy solution to dressing up, and we like how polished this one looks. Whether you style it with a matching bucket hat and shoulder bag for an off-duty ensemble or put on some sleek sandals, you will look effortless and put-together.

Opt For a Wearable Three-Piece Set

A three-piece set may seem tricky to style, but once you find the right style, it actually does all the work for you. We like how this one has slight variations in color, yet all three separates work together very well.

Tuck Your Scarf Under a Blazer For a Style Boost

We never thought about styling a scarf this way until now, and we love the elegance it can bring to an already polished look. Mix and match your separates to create the monochrome look you're comfortable with, and don't be afraid to play with dimensions by styling wide-leg trousers with a fitted short-sleeve top.

Wrap Your Scarf Around Your Shoulder For Added Warmth (and Flair)
Getty/ Jeremy Moeller

Wrap Your Scarf Around Your Shoulder For Added Warmth (and Flair)

We love the different shades of brown in this look, which create an eye-catching effect. If you're wondering how to amp up a monochrome look, Eva Chen has you covered—just throw on a scarf over your shoulders.