Brown replaces black as autumn’s chic neutral, fashion editor says

A Daily Mail Femail feature by Dinah van Tulleken, published September 21, 2025, argues that brown has overtaken black as autumn’s default neutral. The fashion writer, who notes that black has long served as the industry’s armor, says this season’s palette shift brings a warmer, richer option that flatters a range of skintones and adds a youthful lift to outfits. While head-to-toe brown is deemed chic, she also suggests a single brown piece can refresh an existing wardrobe without a full overhaul.

Black, van Tulleken writes, is unforgiving for many, whereas chocolate tones can soften, warm and modernise a look. The shift is easier to adapt than it might seem: the hue pairs just as easily with denim and white tees as it does with bold prints, and a single brown item can act as a versatile anchor for autumn ensembles. The piece frames brown not as a bold trend, but as a long-wearing staple that works across ages and styles.

Skirts remain a wardrobe workhorse this season, with cocoa-toned options spanning midi, maxi and mini lengths. The appeal lies in the color’s neutrality and its ability to pair with simple knits or printed tops. Zara offers a knit-style brown piece described as ludicrously comfortable for around £22.99, while Albaray’s pleated A-line skirt — featuring a fitted waist, belt detail and a side slit — is priced at £99 and cited as a standout investment piece in the collection.

When it comes to outerwear, the editor highlights a deep chocolate shade as a timeless choice that elevates any outfit, from casual jeans and a white tee to more daring printed dresses. Albaray’s short funnel-neck coat is highlighted at £165 and available in sizes 8–18, while Peacocks offers a classic crombie-style longline coat for about £55. The suggestion is to choose one brown outerwear piece you can wear across seasons, rather than multiple season-specific items, for a more cohesive wardrobe.

Knits and textiles get particular attention, with a nod toward patterns that add visual interest within a brown palette. An Argyle or Fairisle motif — or a diamond pattern from Baukjen — is recommended for pairing with jeans or a brown skirt, with Massimo Dutti’s 100% wool Argyle cardigan priced at £89.95 and a Baukjen jumper at £119 cited as versatile options that won’t break the bank.

In the accessories category, the article notes that luxury houses have leaned into brown in their AW25 collections. The Row, Prada, Miu Miu, Gucci and Chloé are among the names seen embracing rich brown tones on runways, underscoring the color’s appeal beyond the high street. Radley’s Romilly bag, priced at £299, is highlighted as a practical, full-sized option with multiple carry modes, while Mango’s browns bucket bag at about £29.99 is suggested for those seeking an affordable entry point into the trend.

Footwear rounds out the portfolio, with boots singled out as an ideal brown investment. Zara’s slouchy suede boots are praised for their comfortable heel height at £89.99, while Marks & Spencer offers trainers around £50 that maintain a cohesive brown theme. Mint Velvet’s suede loafers at £110 complete a balanced lineup of brown footwear across different styles and budgets.

Across the board, the feature frames brown as a flexible alternative to black that can read fresh and polished without sacrificing wearability. The tone is practical and accessible: lean into one strong brown statement piece, or build a coordinated wardrobe around a palette of cocoa hues that transitions from early autumn through the cooler months. The article ties the color shift to broader fashion conversations about warmth, texture and pattern, stressing that the right brown pieces can look expensive, but don’t have to cost a fortune. It positions the autumn trend as both a nod to luxury and a gateway to affordable, high-impact styling.

The timing of the piece aligns with a broader industry move toward earthy neutrals that pair well with seasonal textures like quilted fabrics, knits and brushed wools. Designers showcased the hue across coats, dresses and accessories on recent runways, reinforcing the practical takeaway that brown can function as a reliable, year-round pillar. As consumers weigh their wardrobes for the season ahead, van Tulleken’s coverage offers a clear message: update with rich chocolate or add a single brown piece to refresh your look, and you’ll capture a youthful, modern feel without abandoning timeless style.