Sophie's Lookbook
Step into Sophie's Lookbook for insider insight on the latest trends and topics in the fashion world from longtime member of DoMa's editorial team.
Brown is the New Black
May 20, 2022
By Sophie Andreesen
Brown is the new black – and quite literally.
I’ve always been one to gravitate towards an effortlessly timeless wardrobe of neutrals, but in recent months I have traded out harsh blacks for browns: a hue that feels warmer, richer, more luxe. Yet, still shares the same versatility.
When referencing the runway, some of the most memorable styles are cut from shades of chocolate: think tonal cashmere layers from Max Mara’s Fall 2017 collection to Calvin Klein’s slinky ‘90s slips or the sleek latex ensembles of Saint Laurent’s Fall 2020 show.
It feels understated while making the perfect impact. Take Kendall Jenner and Hailey Beieber as examples.
The two emerged from dinner in head-to-toe brown looks ahead of the recent Met Gala. It was one of those fashion moments that instantly burns into your memory, feeling relatable and inspirational all at once (and with so many styling takeaways for incorporating the tone into your repertoire!)
Jackets are everything...
Especially in brown! I have always been a proponent of outerwear – it makes up 75% of my closet – so the two shearling-lined styles donned by the models were instantly one of my favorite parts of their looks. My shopping carts and wish lists are now filled with coffee-hued bombers, rich tweed blazers and this similar fringe-trimmed Bottega Veneta duster, available in @lizzysavetsky’s closet on Dora Maar.
Go for monochrome.
Dressing in one color is incredibly chic without the hassle of thinking about what matches or goes. This has been one of my favorite ways to style the color – from silky brown shirt and trouser sets to dresses and similarly colored shoes. Take inspiration from the street style duo, leaning into texture and print for added interest. With small cutouts and a subtle stripe print, Isa Boulder’s top is made perfect for layering under a cropped jacket with trousers for a look á la Hailey Bieber.
Who says brown and black don't go?
In one outfit, Kendall Jenner proves the longstanding narrative false. Her brown mini and knee-high black patent boots are the perfect complement. Experiment with subtle ways to mix the two neutrals whether with a belt, bag or sandals. Or for a bolder take, try color-blocking with a black jacket or top.
While the fashion world finds a newfound lust over brown, the color trend feels like it is here for the long run, and well worth investing in.
How I style Brown
@sophieandreesen
