Although Pantone’s 2025 Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse, ruled wardrobes for much of last year, a richer and more indulgent tone is quickly gaining traction in 2026. Enter chocolate brown, the season’s standout shade. The colour feels inherently refined, offering a depth and elegance that makes it endlessly wearable. Wondering how to style it? Look no further than French women for guidance. Renowned for their effortless sense of style, these fashion insiders have long mastered the art of creating polished, timeless outfits.
Like any strong neutral, chocolate brown pairs beautifully with a wide spectrum of colours, something French fashion lovers continue to demonstrate. From embracing once-debated combinations to balancing the shade with lighter or brighter tones, their outfits prove the hue’s versatility. Ahead, discover five colours French women are wearing with chocolate brown right now. With this trend showing no signs of fading, learning these pairings will serve your wardrobe well.
Black and Brown, Reimagined
Yes, despite long-held fashion myths, black and brown can create a strikingly chic pairing. French tastemakers are fully on board, and Chloé Harrouche is a prime example. The Loulou de Saison founder embraced the look by styling black on top with chocolate-brown pieces below. Once considered a style misstep, this combination now feels intentional, modern, and undeniably elegant.
Olive Green as a Modern Neutral
Ask any fashion insider and they’ll tell you olive green functions much like a neutral. Naturally, it blends seamlessly with chocolate brown. Take inspiration from Julie Sergent Ferreri, who paired an olive-green knit with chocolate-brown trousers. For an extra polished finish, coordinating your handbag with your sweater ties the look together effortlessly.
A Pop of Red for Impact
Looking to elevate a chocolate-brown outfit? Introducing a bold red accessory instantly brings energy to the look. This pairing strikes the perfect balance between timeless sophistication and statement style. For a cohesive finish, a swipe of red lipstick complements the colour combination beautifully.
Grey for Subtle Sophistication
This pairing proves that neutrals never have to feel dull. When combined with grey, chocolate brown adds depth and warmth, resulting in a palette that feels refined, balanced, and effortlessly chic. Together, these shades create a look that is understated yet undeniably stylish.
Kelsey is a Los Angeles–based fashion, lifestyle, and beauty writer with over six years of experience. She began her career in 2019 as an intern at The Zoe Report, later advancing through roles such as Editorial Assistant, Fashion & Beauty Writer, and Associate Fashion Editor. She has also worked at Shopbop as a copywriter, contributing to homepage, email, and social media content. Kelsey holds a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Business Management from The Fashion Institute of Technology, and her bylines have appeared in Vogue, Glamour, Byrdie, InStyle, Refinery29, WWD, Footwear News, and Coveteur.
