15 Chocolate Brown Closet Staples to Wear Instead of Black Or White This Summer

You’ve probably heard that black and white are the ultimate neutrals to stock in your closet. I’m here to challenge that notion: Chocolate brown is taking over as the most stylish neutral, and honestly, the hue is a bit more versatile than both black and white.

This color has an inherent regality about it — it looks rich and smooth, elevating any outfit you wear, regardless of weather you opt for a chocolate brown top, bottom or even just an accessory. Let me put it this way: Every well-rounded closet has a little chocolate brown in it. Not sure where to start? I curated the best chocolate brown pieces to shop today.

Tops

1. Our Favorite: While chocolate brown hues give off a more refined vibe than black or white, this loose, everyday tee ups the ante, courtesy of its dainty ruffle sleeves.

2. Summer Staple: Whether you’re tending to your garden, relaxing on the porch or going out to dinner with friends, this basic chocolate brown tank will become a cornerstone of your summer wardrobe.

3. Oh, You’re Rich: Silk is an expensive fabric, right? According to Quince it doesn’t have to be. This chocolate brown silk blouse is under $100 — and it’s machine washable.

4. Your New Favorite Blouse: Blouses can be informal and airy. In fact, I have a feeling you’ll want to wear this pretty pick more than your go-to athleisure.

Bottoms

5. Not Your Average Cargo: Isn’t it funny that as soon as you see casual pants in a fresh color — like this pair of cargos — it looks like a never-before-seen style? That’s the magic of fashion!

6. Breezy Pick: In my book, you can never have enough slip skirts. (I own one in nearly every color under the sun.) Although I must admit I end up wearing my chocolate brown one from By Tess Collection the most.

7. Capris! The cropped capri look is all the rage (and frankly, perfect for summer). This corduroy pair from Quince has a groovy feel that will score you plenty of compliments.

8. High End Lounge Wear: Chocolate brown is a ritzy color, yes really! You’ll look wealthy even when you’re wearing these under-$20 joggers, promise.

Dresses

9. Date Night Ready: Switch up your average date night ‘fit with this form-fitting dress that turns heads. The expertly placed ruching ensures you’ll feel confident all throughout the evening.

10. A Touch of Chocolate: You can still get in on the chocolate trend without dressing head to toe in brown. Opt for playful patterns, like this fun polka-dotted maxi dress from Petal & Pup.

11. Understated Elegance: Sophisticated and stuffy don’t have to go hand in hand. This classy dress can be worn to the office or dinner parties, and no one needs to know it feels like pajamas.

12. Vacation Ready: Between the free-flowing silhouette and plunging open back, you’ll be the best dressed on your beach trip when you wear this linen tank dress.

Accessories

13. Quiet Luxury: This smooth, angular shoulder bag reminds Us of a rich chocolate bar. Wearing this with a butter yellow top will keep you right on trend this summer.

14. Eyes on the Prize: Not quite ready to fully incorporate a statement chocolate brown piece into your wardrobe? Start small with these 90s-inspired oval sunnies.

15. Strut in Style: I’d argue that chocolate brown loafers are much more versatile than black designs, plus they’re much more suited for the summertime. You’ll wear this comfy style through every season.

16. Sporty Chic: Working up a sweat on the pickleball court? Do it in style when you don this chocolate brown baseball cap.