you’re able to’t wear black and brown together: right?

Well, not anymore.

While combining these two go-to neutrals has long been known as a fashion faux pas, things are changing.

woman in brown coat and black pants

Black and brown are both neutrals, so by definition, they can’t clash.

Why is it, then, that we think of them as such a bad match?

There are ways to mix black and brown that may look mismatched or even drab.

woman in plaid coat

Yet, when done right, the black and brown pairing is chic, understated, and modern.

Warm brown coats

Faux fur probably comes in more shades of brown than any other color.

The same goes for beloved, cozy teddy coats.

woman in black dress in bar

Yet, brown is an unexpected, yet neutral twist that pairs perfectly with black staples.

Brown accent on an all black look

What’s more classic than an all black outfit?

Basically nothing, though, most of us don’t want to dress in all black all the time.

woman in fur coat

This is why all black outfits with red shoes or bright neon bags are popular.

This is why we love a single brown piece with an all-black ensemble.

Choose a light brown jacket or a brown bag for a neutral, yet unique go-to look.

woman in brown shirt and black pants

We love the way thisclassic red lipstickcomplements the palette without distracting.

Which color you choose for your pop depends on your shade of brown.

For chocolate brown, bright blue and pale pink work well.

woman posing in wine cellar

Load up on black accessories to drive the monochrome look home.

One of the most classic black and brown prints out there is leopard print.

One leopard print piece can make a black and brown outfit work with ease.

woman posing in black and brown outfit

We love this leopard print jacket layered over a bandeau and paired with some boyfriend jeans.

Moto jackets

Most of us have a black faux leather moto jacket somewhere in our closets.

Popping on a black leather jacket works surprisingly well with pretty much any outfit as a base.

woman in leopard print jacket

To some of us, it just seems wrong.

While the outfit would certainly work if these accessories were black, the brown gives the look more interest.

The color combination is easy, effortless, and chic without making a big fashion statement.

woman with leather jacket smiling

Yet, a black top, tights, and accessories paired with a brown miniskirt are utterly chic.

We also love the idea of black tights with a brown mini dresslike this one.

Pattern mixing

Pattern mixing is such a fun way to add interest and dimension to an outfit.

woman posing with drink

We love the mix of these small, subtle prints on this flowy, oversized shirt and wide-leg pants.

Paired with other neutrals

Black and brown is the perfect updated way to pair neutrals.

White and cream hues and shades of grey are chic additions to a black and brown outfit.

woman posing by mural

Black and brown actually make for a surprisingly common color palette for flannel shirts.

Flannel is definitely no exception to the rule.

We lovethis onefor under $25.

woman taking mirror selfie

Yet, with only a slight update, you could make your look so updated and fresh.

woman posing in denim vest

snakeskin dress with brown accessories

woman posing in flannel

woman posing in black outfit