Beautiful Browns

When I lived in Manhattan I wore a lot of black, but since moving to New Hampshire chocolate brown has taken black's preeminent place in my wardrobe. Perhaps I'm trying to reflect my new, natural surroundings or embracing brown's recent surge in popularity, but either way it's been a welcome change. Brown has a softer and warmer aura than black and pairs with most other colors beautifully, from scarlet to mustard to cerulean! However my favorite way to wear brown is different hues of the same color all in one look. Here are a few of my personal favorite brown pieces in my own wardrobe:

Chocolate Plaid Coat - I have collected several long brown coats over the years because chocolate brown really is a winter favorite. And seems others agree, as some of my most pinned photos on Pinterest feature my brown plaid coats - for example! The one I'm wearing above is a find from the Lauren Ralph Lauren brand, and on sale for $250, which is an incredible price for the quality, and I love the addition of a bit of burgundy in the plaid which really warms things up. (If chocolate brown isn't your thing, this coat also comes in a beautiful navy and gray plaid as well!) This outfit would be a chic travel outfit (pair with loafers!) as you head home for Thanksgiving, or would look great worn with Bean Boots (on sale!) while out on a stroll with the family over the holidays.

Chocolate knitwear - Chocolate brown seems to complement most skin tones and it's just so yummy in knitwear form. My sweater from Millie is extra cozy with a turtleneck and long bell sleeves, and made of 60% alpaca which makes it fabulously soft. Other favorite chocolate knit staples include this slim cashmere turtleneck (25% off with code "MEMBERSONLY" today, Nov 14 when you create a free VIP account) and I have my eye on this gorgeous cardigan as well.

Chocolate Suede Shoes - Chocolate footwear is easily my most worn color of shoe every fall and winter and since I wear them so often they're pieces I've really invested in. The dark color anchors most outfits beautifully whether you're opting for a casual flat booties (less expensive here) and jeans combo, or staying warm in suede knee high boots and a skirt. Most of my favorite brown shoes come from Sarah Flint (get early access to their 30% off Black Friday deal with code "EARLYBF30") but I also reach for these timeless brown loafers a ton. For super casual looks or inclement weather, I also own and love several pairs of bean boots including this pair which feature cognac and dark brown (on sale now which rarely happens) and these shearling lined, dark brown 10" boots, which are a godsend in deep winter and worth every penny.

Beautiful Brown Bags - Similar to my shoe strategy, I've invested in several brown handbags since I know I'll reach for them again and again. Also, I love a matching shoe and handbag moment, so my bags mix and match with my dark brown shoes beautifully. A few favorites include this hobo bag, this equestrian cross body and this * chic box bag. This shearling bag is also on my Christmas wishlist! Less expensive options include this woven suede tote and this woven leather clutch!

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