Brown is a versatile neutral color that can work with a variety of outfit combinations. Here are some quick tips on what colors pair well with different shades of brown:
Conclusion
Pastels like light pink, mint, baby blue complement brown’s earthiness. Deep jewel tones like ruby red, emerald green, or sapphire blue make bold statements. Neutrals like cream, tan, taupe, or khaki are foolproof options. Metallics like gold and bronze give a glam touch. Black and white classics offer crisp contrast.
| Light Brown | Cream, Beige, Light Pink, Lavender, Sky Blue |
| Medium Brown | Red, Olive Green, Coral, Light Gray |
| Dark Brown | Bright White, Charcoal, Gold, Pastels |
| Chocolate Brown | Red, Purple, Teal, Ivory, Khaki |
With the versatility of brown, the styling options are endless. Here’s a more detailed look at what colors pair beautifully with different shades of brown for any outfit:
Light Brown
A light brown outfit has a soft, natural look. Pairing light brown with other neutral earth tones results in an understated, organic style. Cream, beige and tan will blend seamlessly. For a pop of color, try light pink, lavender, sky blue or mint green. These soft pastels complement the muted tone. Patterns like buffalo check and polka dots also work well with light brown. Overall, light brown outfits with dusty, faded hues give off a vintage vibe. Think natural linen or cotton fabrics in the spring and summer.
Some examples of light brown outfit combinations:
- Light tan pants with a cream linen button up shirt
- A lavender dress with a light brown belt
- Mint trousers with a buffalo plaid light brown jacket
- A cotton light brown midi skirt with a baby blue top
These outfits keep things low key. The light brown acts as a subdued neutral that lets the other colors shine.
Medium Brown
Medium brown has a bit more depth than light brown. It pairs well with other rich neutrals and bold saturated colors. Black, gray, navy and olive green offer an elegant contrast. Red, coral and burnt orange add vibrance. Metallic accents in gold, bronze and copper complement the warm earthy tones.
For patterns, medium brown works with both large and small designs like houndstooth, buffalo check or subtle stripes. Medium brown suede or leather jackets and shoes also lend a stylish touch. Overall, incorporating medium brown into an outfit evokes a refined, timeless look.
Some examples of medium brown outfit pairings:
- A red sweater dress with medium brown knee high boots
- Charcoal trousers with a medium brown belt
- An olive green trench coat over a medium brown turtleneck
- A houndstooth pencil skirt with a copper blouse
These outfits use medium brown as a neutral base for eye-catching colors and patterns. The brown offers a sophisticated complement.
Dark Brown
Dark brown makes a dramatic, bold statement. Pairing it with lighter neutrals creates a striking contrast. Cream, stone, taupe and wheat provide softer accents. Pastels also pop against the deep brown background. Mint, baby blue and lilac remain vibrant.
For a glam look, metallic shoes, jewelry and bags in gold, rose gold or champagne add flair. Leopard print or plaid patterns stand out when mixed with dark brown. Sleek black also complements dark brown for an edgy, sophisticated style. Velvet, leather, suede and wool fabrics in rich brown hues ooze elegance.
Some chic dark brown outfit ideas:
- A cream angora sweater with dark brown velvet pants
- A wheat-colored trench coat over a dark brown turtleneck and jeans
- An emerald green blouse with a dark chocolate pencil skirt
- Baby blue shorts with a dark brown leather jacket
Dark brown makes an eye-catching neutral that grounds bright colors. Play with light and dark contrasts for dramatic flair.
Chocolate Brown
Chocolate brown has warm red undertones that pair well with camel, beige and tan. Neutrals in rich shades lend a sophisticated earthiness. Red, purple and teal provide vibrant pops of color. Distressed denim in lighter washes prevents chocolate brown from feeling too heavy.
Ivory and cream also lighten up chocolate brown with a crisp contrast. Navy and forest green offer depth without overpowering. Patterns like buffalo check, houndstooth and herringbone complement chocolate brown’s ruggedness. This earthy brown shade also works well with metallic shoes, jewelry and handbags for sheen.
Some examples of chocolate brown outfits:
- A camel coat over chocolate brown trousers and cream loafers
- Chocolate brown shorts with a purple sweater
- Beige cigarette pants with a chocolate brown blazer and emerald heels
- A chocolate brown leather skirt with an ivory lace top
Chocolate brown pairs beautifully with camel, beige and cream for a tonal monochromatic look. Vibrant colors and patterns liven things up while metallics add shine.
Tips for Wearing Brown
Brown is hugely versatile, but here are some handy tips for rocking it stylishly:
- Go monochrome with different brown shades like tan with chocolate brown
- Mix and match textures like suede, leather and wool for depth
- Add pops of brighter colors like red, purple or teal as accents
- Incorporate patterns and prints like houndstooth, buffalo check and leopard
- Choose metallic shoes, jewelry and bags in rose gold, gold or bronze
- Mix in neutrals like black, white, gray, navy or olive green
- Play with light and dark contrasts for visual interest
With so many outfit combos, brown can work for causal daytime looks or sleek evening style. From light and airy to deep and dramatic, brown’s versatility makes it a perfect year-round color.
Conclusion
Brown is an extremely versatile neutral that pairs well with a wide range of colors. Stick to light and creamy tones like tan, beige and light pink for a soft look with light brown. Use bold saturated hues like red, purple and emerald green as accent colors with medium or dark brown. Classic patterns like houndstooth, herringbone and buffalo check also complement brown’s earthiness. For shine, metallics in gold, bronze and copper interplay beautifully with brown’s depth. With so many options, brown can be dressed up or down seamlessly. Experiment with different color and pattern combinations to make the most of brown’s versatility for any stylish outfit.
