Clodagh McKenna's dark chocolate Sézane outfit is proof that this winter, brown is the new black
Clodagh McKenna knows this season's brown trend is the key to looking cosy and chic this winter.
While there are a plethora of shades dominating autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026, brown has quickly become a must-have hue. Dark, moody and neutral - making it easy to style - Clodagh McKenna proved exactly why this shade is the ideal alternative to black, as she wore a luxurious ensemble in head-to-toe chocolate brown.
Pairing Sézane’s Herri trousers with the brand's André cardigan, Clodagh created a strikingly sophisticated tonal look that oozed elegance. Even in its darkest iteration, brown is lighter than black and a lot softer on all skin tones, making it universally flattering.
By cinching the waist of her cardigan with the currently sold-out Lisa belt from Sézane, Clodagh added a polished finish to the outfit that could work for a host of occasions, and it makes styling trending brown feel timeless as well as timely.
Made from a wool-blend fabric, these trousers not only promise to feel luxurious day-to-day but also add extra warmth to winter wardrobes.
With its sailor collar and classic cable knit detailing, this cardigan rivals any of the best wool jumpers already in your collection.
When styling relaxed-fit knits and wide-leg trousers together, bringing shape back to your waist with a slim belt can make a world of difference.
Lean into the smart feel of these trousers by styling them with a shirt, blouse or blazer for the office and special occasions, or give an everyday spin by pairing them with trainers, t-shirts and knitwear.
The best cashmere sweaters are an investment worth making. Button it up for a cohesive, tonal finish or get a more relaxed style by leaving it unbuttoned over a silky or lace cami for an extra feminine feel.
Polished, gold-toned hardware can really offset brown accessories. The chocolate hue, teamed with the gold, looks elegant and far more expensive than its price tag.
Various shades of brown are currently in the spotlight thanks to the autumn/winter brown fashion colour trend with every variation of the hue, from mocha to milkier latte tones, skyrocketing in popularity.
Darker, more bitter chocolate takes are a particularly timeless way to go when refreshing capsule wardrobes with this shade, though. That’s because it offers a warmer alternative to black that’s still just as dark and rich, while also remaining versatile enough to pair with brighter colours.
Olive, blue and red are some of those bolder shades that come to mind when thinking about dark chocolate and the amazing colour combinations loved by stylists that can be created around this timely hue. But, as Clodagh proves, a one-tone ensemble is a sure-fire route to looking elegant.
