THE JOURNAL

Our guide to wearing autumn’s hottest colour.
Brown. Not, perhaps, the sexiest or most charismatic shade on the colour wheel, but spare a thought for it this autumn, because a host of chocolate-hued garments is on offer here at MR PORTER: snug woolly pullovers, suede and corduroy jackets (brown and textured fabrics are the best of friends) and a range of other options that will change how you look at this humble hue. But what about that old adage “when in town, don’t wear brown”? While it may arguably ring true for shoes, fortunately the rest of your wardrobe isn’t slave to such sartorial tyranny. Brown, it turns out, can be as smart or as casual as you make it. Here are a few ways to wear it that won’t leave you feeling browned off.
The understated brown knit
If you’re finding the current graphic knitwear trend a little mind-meltingly bright, Prada has a foolproof alternative that feels a touch more grounded. This alpaca-and wool-blend sweatshirt is a wonderfully cosy choice. Pair it with black trousers, such as these corduroy ones from Margaret Howell to up the texture ante, and foot the look with a reliable pair of Common Projects sneakers to really polish it off.
Brown that means business
Tried and tested, the camel coat is an indefatigable classic and a guaranteed investment. Still, that doesn’t mean it’s not enjoying a particularly relevant moment this season, and it doesn’t get sharper than this tailored, streamlined number from Sandro. Camel is versatile enough to go easily with most things, but its golden warmth contrasts smartly with cooler shades, such as this crisp blue Oxford shirt from Maison Kitsuné.
Brown for pragmatists
The brown scarf is, in many ways, the perfect winter accessory. It’s exceedingly neutral, meaning it will work well with a winter coat of any shade (except more brown – beware of dressing like a chocolate cake), and in fashion’s wind vane world of trends, something that goes with everything is a rarity that should be seized. Drape this soft caramel-coloured one from AMI over your shoulders, or loop it under a sturdy bomber jacket – this one from PS by Paul Smith comes complete with four pockets. Preposterously practical in every way.
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