Sometimes it's not the handbag casually slung over your shoulder or the pointed-toe of your kitten-heel boots emerging from beneath the hem of your wide-leg jeans that signals whether you've got your finger on the fashion pulse or not. Rather, it can be something far less specific, like the colour palette you've chosen to wear. And if there's one shade that sums up this autumn/winter as the new neutral, it's chocolate brown.
The hue historically hasn't gotten as much airtime as stalwarts like black, navy and grey, but that all changed as soon as the cold weather arrived. The colour – which can be delectably rich or surprisingly mellow, depending on the precise gradation – has likely impacted your choice of jacket this season, as well as making its presence known amongst your midi dresses. It dominated all styles of shoes, from boots to trainers. But the latest item of clothing it has converted is jeans.
When it comes to styling the look, a quick scroll on Instagram makes it clear that cocoa should make up the majority of your outfit – we're talking, ideally 70% or more preferably. We promise, this much brown won't look remotely like overkill. In fact, it's a shade that lends itself to full head-to-toe immersion. If you're after a more subtle approach, try wearing it alongside other neutrals – burgundy, for example, this season's other standout colour, or a heather-coloured wool coat.
Not afraid to go bold? Chocolate brown jeans also work well when paired with pastels. Dusty shades of blue work brilliantly, or you could similarly play with a hint of pink or pistachio in the form of a cashmere scarf or a colour-pop sock.
You could also use your chocolate brown jeans as the starting point of your party season wardrobe. More formal than blue denim but more luxe and current than black (especially if you seek out a sumptuous fabrication like velvet) they'll elevate the go-to jeans and a nice top ensemble. Team with a sheer knit, plus kitten-heeled ankle boots, and you've got a party outfit that's quite literally the definition of ‘hot chocolate.’
Your favourite high street brands have all been steadily introducing chocolate brown jeans this season, giving their denim sections a deliciously seasonal note. So, if you wear the same jeans day in, day out, a chocolate brown pair might help to reinvigorate your rotation. Or, if you usually steer clear of denim altogether, this alternative shade might convince you to dip your toe in. Win-win!
Massimo Dutti Straight-Leg Mid-Rise Flocked Jeans
Cos Reprise Straight-Leg Jeans
DL1961 Miro Barrel High Rise Jeans
Zara High-Waist Extra Wide Leg Jean
Agolde Ren Jean Petite 25"
