For a long time, brown and black were considered a controversial color pairing. It wasn’t until recently that we’ve started to see a rise in popularity of the color combination, which has become increasingly popular in the fall and winter seasons. “For years, brown and black were seen as fashion opposites—both beautiful and high-impact colors that define a look—but the modern shift toward neutral, quiet luxury dressing has made this pairing feel incredibly chic and intentional,” says Erin Walsh, celebrity stylist to Anne Hathaway and Selena Gomez (among others) and Marshalls and TJ Maxx fashion style expert. “Today’s fashion landscape loves to celebrate warmth, texture, and depth—and both of those colors truly emulate those characteristics, especially when combined.” Kendall Jenner even stepped out this month in the trend, pairing chic, pointed-square toe brown boots with sleek, high-waisted black trousers.
It seems that the age-old question, “Can you wear brown shoes with black pants?” finally has an answer, and it’s proving to be one of the biggest color trends of the year. Other celebs who have worn black and brown together recently include Gigi and Bella Hadid, as well as Scarlett Johansson. And styling the two colors is easier than you may think: “The trick to styling black and brown lies in choosing rich, complementary tones that feel intentional and cohesive together,” says Walsh. “In terms of complementary shades, deep chocolate shades paired with black are effortlessly chic.” If you’re ready to try fall’s hottest color combination out for yourself, I’ve pulled together the best black pants and brown shoe options to shop, with picks available on Amazon starting at $25.
The Best Brown Shoes to Wear With Black Pants
Credit: Dolce Vita
These square-pointed-toe brown leather boots from Dolce Vita are a look-alike to Kendall’s brown boots she’s wearing with her black trousers above. I like how they hit mid-calf, meaning they’re not too tall to fit under pants.
Credit: Amazon
Mary Janes are a classic shoe staple, and this pair on Amazon is on sale for less than $40. The rich, chocolate brown faux leather is such a stunning shade that pairs beautifully with black and includes a 1.65-inch chunky heel with a dainty slingback ankle strap. Reviewers rave about their comfort, with one reviewer saying, “I got these to wear to a wedding and they were a dream!! They are so comfortable, I forgot I had them on!”
Credit: TJ Maxx
These brown ballet flats from TJ Maxx remind me of a true, classic ballerina slipper, with its satin outer, square, snip toe, and dainty bow detail. They’re a fantastic office shoe, looking dressy and elevated while keeping your feet comfortable. “What I love most is experimenting with combinations that are accessible to all,” says Walsh. She likes these espresso brown ballet flats, and says she would style them with tailored black pants. “Together, they instantly create a refined, Parisian-inspired silhouette that feels both modern yet timeless.”
Credit: Everlane
I’ve been wearing these brown ballet flats with all of my fall outfits lately—especially my black bottoms. I adore the tie-strap across the foot, giving them that extra touch of detail that elevates the entire look. Plus, they feel very high-quality, and the square toe makes them look extra luxe.
Credit: Sam Edelman
For those dressier occasions and events this season where you’re sporting a LBD, a brown slingback pump like this pair from Sam Edelman is the perfect match. The chocolate brown leather looks sleek and elevated, and the short heel will make them comfortable to wear all day or night.
More Brown Shoes to Wear With Black Pants
The Best Black Pants to Wear With Brown Shoes
Credit: Abercrombie
For a high-rise bootcut black tailored pant like Kendall’s, I love this pair from Abercrombie. For starters, the ring up at under $100, but even more, they’re super flattering on, with front pleats running all the way down, making legs look elongated. Pair them with brown boots or a brown kitten heel for a look that can take you from the office to dinner.
Credit: Revolve
I love a tailored capri pant, and this pair from Favorite Daughter is the ideal length. It’s not too short where it looks out of place for the fall and winter seasons, but it’s just short enough to give you that chic, Parisian look. They would look gorgeous with sleek brown pumps.
Credit: Banana Republic
I will always love a flared jean with a fall boot (specifically a pair of rich brown boots). These mid-rise black flare jeans from Banana Republic have great stretch, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
Credit: Amazon
For high-waisted black trousers like Kendall’s on a budget, you can pick this pair up on Amazon, currently on sale for $25. Reviewers love their comfort and style, with one reviewer saying, “These are perfect! Lightweight, stretchy, true to size, comfortable, and affordable!”
Credit: TJ Maxx
TJ Maxx has dozens of black pants options available at an affordable price. I love this pair by Tahari ASL, ringing up at $30. They hit right at the ankle, making them easy to pair with a wide variety of shoe styles, and feature chic pleating down the legs.
