Fashion rules have been around for a long time and many of us have grown up hearing things like “you can’t wear white after Labor Day,” “black and brown don’t go together,” or “warm- and cool-toned hues should never be combined in one outfit.” But it’s time to break away from these old-fashioned beliefs and embrace our own personal style. In 2023, let’s throw out the rule book and wear whatever colors we want, whenever we want. It’s time to let go of limiting beliefs and trust our own instincts.
Brown has been unnecessarily regulated for decades. However, brown is just another neutral color and can be paired with any other color, including other neutrals. If you find it challenging to break free from the traditional color pairing rules with brown hues, try the following combinations. They may inspire you to step out of the box and live your truth not only in fashion but also in life.
Black
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It can be difficult to hear that someone has told you that black and brown don’t go together. However, that statement is simply untrue. If the idea of pairing dark colors with each other makes you hesitant, you can start with a light brown and gradually work your way up to darker shades. You could also consider pairing a dark brown item with a gray piece, which can create a similar effect.
Yellow
If brown and yellow don’t pair well, why do they make up so much ground cover during autumn? These two are a natural match. Stick to dark mustard or gold yellows if you’re going for an earthy vibe, and reach for a brighter sunny hue if bold is your goal.
Green
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Speaking of Mother Earth’s favorite color combinations, if eco-friendly was a pairing of two colors, those two colors would undoubtedly be brown and green. If blending into the beautiful spring foliage sounds good this year, reach for a green or two to mix into your ensemble of brown staples.
Cream
If you have ever appreciated a classic black and white outfit but have found that the combination looked too harsh or washed out your complexion, then the combination of brown and cream is the perfect neutral pairing for you. This combination gives you a soft, warm glow for your overall aesthetic. You can also add tiny pops of color via accessories to enhance your look.
Pink
Combining pink with brown can result in significantly different outcomes, depending on the tone and saturation of the colors, but each combination can look fantastic. If you’re unsure where to start, a neutral brown paired with a pastel pink is a safe bet. On the other hand, if you want to make a bold statement, try pairing a warm brown with a bright fuchsia or magenta – this is sure to catch people’s attention.
White
Torn between the softness of brown and cream and the crispness of black and white when you’re mixing neutrals? Brown and white may be exactly the best-of-both-worlds combination that is meant for you. Consider adding some bright lipstick or a pair of fun earrings for a touch of unique personality.
Blue
Brown is technically just a darker version of the color orange. Across from orange on the color wheel resides blue, making it the most complementary color to any hue in the orange family. From cobalt to baby blue, you literally can’t go wrong with a blue and brown combination. Pair with the confidence of knowing that the (fashion) rules don’t apply to you.
Let’s embrace the liberating notion that fashion is a realm of endless possibilities, free from the constraints of outdated rules. By experimenting with unexpected combinations like brown with black, yellow, green, cream, pink, white, and blue, we’re not just making a statement about our wardrobe; we’re affirming our freedom to express ourselves in the most authentic way possible. Each pairing offers a unique opportunity to reflect our individuality and break free from the chains of convention. So, whether you’re drawn to the earthy tones of brown and green, the vibrancy of brown and pink, or the classic elegance of brown and cream, remember that your style is your own. Let this year be about trusting your instincts, exploring new horizons in color combinations, and living your truth through fashion. The only rule to follow is that there are no rules.
