Thursday Outfit: Chestnut and Black

Nov 2, 2023

Chestnut brown is everywhere this season.  From dresses to boots to tops, this warm brown shade is perfect for fall.  Here is how I would style this color palette for the office.

I spotted this look on Instagram while late night scrolling through a bout of insomnia.  Finding the source was a bit tough, but this look comes from Ingrid Wilkinson. The combination of warm brown with black is so chic.  It’s also easy to wear.  Here are the pieces I used to recreate it.

The Blouse // I’m pretty sure this COS top is the exact blouse in the photo.  The scarf tie is a cool detail.  I also found this under-$75 blouse at Banana Republic.  This pleat-front Favorite Daughter bodysuit, and this plus-size blouse from Kohl’s are also worth a look.  You may look better in a darker or lighter chestnut color depending on your skin tone and hair color, so try on a few shades if the first one isn’t for you.

The Pants // These wide leg pants from Open Edit are chic, affordable, comfortable and perfect for work.  I bought a pair to travel in, and they are amazing.  I bought a second pair in case I wear these ones out.

If you need black work pants, Ann Taylor’s 30% off sale is the place to go.  These are my favorite work pants that I have ever owned.  These are my second.

The Shoes and Belt // Let’s talk about this belt from the Italist.  Sleek buckle detail, <$150, and it’s reversible, with a pale tan on the other side.  If you know you need a belt, but you don’t know which one, this is it.  Prefer a cheaper belt?  Target has a 3-pack of skinny belts for $17.

The photo shows brown shoes, but that look isn’t for me.  I like to match my shoe color to my pants for a longer leg line and a simpler look.  This pair of point toe flats from Franco Sarto caught my eye, but whatever you have in a pointed toe, go with that.

Accessories // This bag from Calvin Klein is affordable and stylish.  I like the relaxed, wide strap and the simple, modern styling.  Unlike many CK bags where the logo plaque is very visible, this one fades into the background a bit, which is great.  I hate advertising for brands when I’m just walking around living my life.  This would make a great work bag.

Also, I’ve shown these chunky earrings from Pavoi before.  I own them, and the quality is really good for the price.  I also like the slightly over-sized, but not too big look.  I also like these Saint Laurent Cat Eye Frame Sunglasses.  They’re very angular, which is different from the other pairs I own, without being too over the top.

Styling // This is a look that needs a little lipstick.  I went with this rosy shade from Gucci, because it’s one of my favorites.  I would also recommend wearing your hair down, since this dark color combo could make hair worn up (unless it’s in a Barbie ponytail or something) look very severe.

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  1. TheLOOP says:

    Beautiful outfit!

  2. Leigh says:

    Love this post and these ideas for the color combo! I saw these pants at the Loft and thought they wre fun. https://www.loft.com/petites/petite-pants/catl000037/766303.html?dwvar_766303_color=7878&pid=766303
    Any styling suggestions for shoes? I’m with you – I like my pants and shoe colors to match. Not sure what to wear with these, though!

  3. Tina says:

    The Twinset belt is lovely and a great colour combo, but I am not happy that it is not made out of leather, especially for the price.

    • Belle says:

      I apologize for the original description. I bought a leather belt from Italist when it started, and it’s wonderful quality. I never assumed this one wouldn’t also be leather (since that is or at least was their claim to fame). I’ll change it.

  4. Shannon says:

    I work from home now so don’t need “fancy” business clothes anymore. Its great on the wallet but somewhat sad when so many lovely outfits/clothes exist out there. Your outfit descriptions are so spot on and thorough! I love coming here just for them!! 🙂 Thanks.

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