HOW TO STYLE BROWN PANTS: OUTFITS FOR MEN AND WOMEN

The recent shift toward minimalism and earth tones has called attention to the beauty of colors found in nature. Although pants look great in every hue, few can match the versatility of brown.

When considering classic shades for bottoms, brown often ranks behind other dark hues, such as black and navy blue. Although those colors look fantastic, it’s arguably time a new shade got its turn in the limelight. A chocolatey brown is rich and approachable, radiating a cozy comfort regardless of fabric type. So it’s no surprise that modern designers have embraced brown, offering exquisite, flattering garments in the color for every season.

As for styling, brown offers an exciting palette that allows for versatile styling and finding your favorite shade. No color is taboo when it comes to coordinating with brown; pair it with muted or bright shades alike, or go head-to-toe in monochrome for a standout look. Find rich browns on a pair of corduroys, jeans, or chinos—regardless, you’ll love the warmth and coziness the color brown exudes.

Below is an in-depth look at how to style brown pants for men and women and various outfit ideas you can work into your rotation.

WHAT TO MATCH WITH BROWN PANTS

So, what color of shirt goes with brown pants to best highlight its warm qualities? The good news is that brown’s neutral tone means almost any color is a great match. Let’s explore how hue and fabric come together to give us the best of brown:

Color combinations

Although brown goes with almost everything, a few fool-proof color combinations make brown even more pleasing to the eye. Shades of brown work well with other neutral colors, such as olive, ivory, beige, and white, as well as soft pastels.

The old adage of avoiding black or bright colors with brown has come and gone, making way for a new era of styling. Now, pairing brown with bright yellow, orange, or red draws attention to everything these colors adorn, be it statement accessories, footwear, or handbags.

Fabric choice

Different fabrics affect the way we see colors—some materials, such as silk and wool, create a deep rich hue, while other fibers, such as cotton and linen, can take on a more muted tone, depending on the desired look. Generally speaking, wool, suede, and corduroy offer a great showcase for displaying brown’s earthy warmth, while the light breathability of linen and cotton gives the color an inviting quality. 

BROWN PANTS FOR WOMEN

Whether wearing brown as an accent color or head-to-toe, there’s a shade—from light sand to dark cocoa—you’ll fall in love with. Try these five combinations to incorporate brown pants into your wardrobe:

Olive top + brown trousers + heels

This elegant option is perfect for both the office and a date night. Choose a pair of brown pants with subtle design elements, such as front pleats, and match them with an olive-green shirt that displays femininity in the form of fluttery sleeves and ruffles. Add a pair of brown leather heels, a small handbag, and bold golden hoops.

Brown patent trench coat + brown leather pants + white turtleneck

Nothing beats the mysterious allure of patent leather trench coats. Tuck a white fitted turtleneck into a pair of brown leather pants, and layer a matching brown patent trench coat on top. Leave the coat open to display a long statement necklace, or cinch it closed with a belt to accentuate the waistline. Finish the look with a structured shoulder bag and tortoiseshell-printed sunglasses.

Graphic tee + chocolate brown jeans + sneakers

Try a playful graphic tee with chocolate brown jeans for a laid-back, casual look. Select a white shirt with a punchy logo or illustration to give the outfit a pop of color, and round out the look with a pair of sneakers and colorful gemstone rings.

Blazer + brown dress pants + heels

Suits are the official uniform of the business world. Select one in a solid brown or a brown plaid or print, and complete the look with sandals or closed-toe pumps and a handbag roomy enough for a laptop. Accessorize with diamond stud earrings and a statement ring.

Floral blouse + brown flared bottoms + clogs

Breathe new life into this vintage-inspired outfit for a refreshing spring look. Don a pair of brown flared pants and tuck in a flowy long-sleeve floral blouse. Step into a pair of clogs or platforms and accessorize with a wicker tote bag.

MEN’S BROWN PANTS OUTFITS

There’s no denying the impact of a stylish brown pants outfit. Men have used this color as a wardrobe staple for decades, solidifying it as a must-have in menswear. Try these outfit ideas to make the most of brown pants:

Silk shirt + dark brown pants + ankle boots

This look requires a little courage, but the visual effect is well worth it. Choose a bright, bold printed silk button-up and style it with a pair of dark brown pants. Complete the look with sleek brown leather ankle boots and a gold watch.

Short sleeve button-down shirt + brown pants + sneakers

Opt for a light green short-sleeve button-down for this boho-meets-streetwear ensemble. Select a design with embroidery, tie-dye, or a pattern and wear it open to reveal a white tank top, then add a pair of chunky white sneakers, a brown leather belt, and a cross-body bag.

Cream sweater vest + light brown pants + sandals 

The casual nature of sweater vests works well with relaxed garments. Don a pair of cargo pants with a tucked-in white tee and layer an oversized sweater vest on top. Tie everything together with a pair of black sandals and a canvas tote bag.

Black T-shirt + brown plaid wool pants + loafers

This stylish combo is casual yet clean-cut. Start with a plain black tee and brown plaid pants, and style them with white socks and chunky black loafers. Choose pants in a lighter color to contrast the sharp black so the garments complement each other nicely. Finish the look with a sleek black belt, a dab of cologne, and a watch.

Cardigan + brown wool pants + dress shoes

When an occasion calls for something sophisticated, a pair of wool pants will always align with the dress code. Tuck in a belted earth-tone cardigan and add a pair of dress shoes and a wool coat.

Find the perfect pants

Searching for stylish pants is simple, thanks to Neiman Marcus’ selection of the best designer pants for men and women. With numerous silhouettes, fabrics, and colors to choose from, you’ll find plenty of options to give your wardrobe a reboot every season. Book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor for styling tips and outfit recommendations.

Now that we’ve shared how to create the perfect brown pants outfit, explore our editorial archive and discover such topics as the best corduroy brands for men and women and so much more.