Chocolate Brown is the Expensive-Looking Winter Neutral You Need to Try! 12 Styles to Wear

While neutrals (especially black) will always have a place in fashion, every now and then a classic shade makes a comeback with a fresh twist. Enter chocolate brown, which is experiencing a resurgence thanks to its versatility and that coveted quiet luxury vibe. Also known as coffee or espresso, this rich hue has gained major street style attention, but the best part is its timeless appeal—it's here to stay, even as trends come and go.

With Pantone naming "Mocha Mousse" as its 2025 color of the year, expect even more of this luxurious shade in the months ahead.

Keep reading for 12 chocolate brown pieces to add to your winter wardrobe and beyond.

Instagram/ @nnennaechem

2023 was all about quiet luxury, a trend rooted in neutrals, sleek tailoring, and polished details, thanks to style icons like Sofia Richie Grainge, Jasmine Tookes, and the cast of Succession. While 2024 leans into maximalism with trends like the mob wife aesthetic and louder luxury, neutrals still maintain a strong presence, especially as alternatives to the usual black and gray. Colors like denim, burgundy, butter yellow, and, of course, chocolate brown are taking center stage, with this rich brown now being the hottest hue in town.

Instagram/ @matildadjerf

Celebrities like Tookes, Hailey Bieber, and Zendaya, as well as Scandinavian style icons like Matilda Djerf and Nnenna Echem, have already embraced it. Though the chocolate brown trend started to gain traction last winter, it’s bigger than ever this year, particularly in modern tailoring, winter basics, and statement pieces. Since the shade has staying power, investing in chocolate brown is a great way to stay on-trend and build a timeless wardrobe.

Loulou Studio

A longline coat is a staple for winter, offering warmth and instant chic. Opt for chocolate brown, and you’ll have a piece that’s timelessly elegant while still feeling fresh.

Tove

Leather trousers are a winter essential, and chocolate brown offers a sophisticated twist on the classic black style. Trust us, you’ll be asked where you got those pants.

Veronica Beard

A good cashmere sweater is a must for a winter capsule wardrobe, and chocolate brown is the perfect color to pair with it. This wool-cashmere blend will keep you warm on the chilliest days.

Paris Georgia

This square-neck maxi dress is the epitome of casual sophistication. The abstract ruching adds a modern twist to a vintage-inspired piece that’s perfect for cocktails.

Jeffrey Campbell

There’s nothing like the confidence boost that comes from a stylish pair of heels. These coffee-colored ankle booties will elevate your look, whether paired with a knit dress or a monochromatic ensemble.

Re Ona

Chocolate brown is an unexpected yet chic color for activewear. These chocolate shorts are a perfect blend of practicality and style. Match them with athleisure for a coordinated look, or pair with a button-down for a more street-ready vibe.

Freja New York

Freja’s new east-west bag combines sleekness with function. The elongated shape makes it a standout piece, and its two interior slip pockets help keep everything organized.

Veronica Beard

Nothing says "put together" quite like a chocolate brown blazer. With a cinched waist and gold buttons, this piece has all the hallmarks of "old money" sophistication.

Alohas

These chocolate brown ballet flats are almost black but with four gold buckles that give them an edge. They’re a great choice if you’re warming up to the trend but want something more subtle.

Babaton

A chocolate slip skirt is an ideal option for holiday parties or office days when you want to feel effortlessly stylish. The bias cut and polished finish make it the perfect go-to for any occasion.

Apparis

For the coldest days, a deep brown faux fur hat is a cozy essential. With a faux suede interior that offers warmth and grip, this accessory will keep you both stylish and comfortable.

Ferragamo

For a bit of winter luxury, try a pair of chocolate-tinted sunglasses. The warm, sophisticated hue adds a touch of glamour to your look while keeping things subtly chic.