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In This Article

Chocolate Brown Denim Olive Green Burgundy

Cream Animal Print Sienna

Key Takeaways

• When you're tired of black and other straightforward neutral shades but still want to keep your look streamlined, sophisticated, modern hues like burgundy, olive green, and chocolate brown are ready to fit the bill.

• Even certain fabrics and patterns—like denim and animal print—can serve as less-expected neutrals, boosting your style while maintaining versatility.

Black will always be the new black, as the color's versatility and effortless sophistication make it a year-round staple in almost any closet. Still, everything is best in moderation: If your wardrobe is looking a little too Berghain-inspired, it's about time for some color. This doesn't mean you have to opt for pastels or brights (especially in fall and winter), as the array of modern neutral shades trending this season will help you experiment with new tones without erring on overwhelming vibrancy.

Fall's color palette is filled with muted, earthy colors that appeal to anyone with a taste for minimalism. Think: burnt orange, deep red wine-inspired hues, and the crown jewel color of 2025 (well, according to Pantone), mocha mousse. Below, we're breaking down seven popular modern neutral shades, all of which are set to elevate your outfits when you're bored of all black but don't want to abandon that vibe entirely.

01 of 07

Chocolate Brown

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Pantone was right: In 2025, rich espresso, mocha, and chocolate brown tones took over our wardrobes, and the effect isn't letting up this fall. This season, it’s arguably more popular than black, with chocolate brown being the tone of choice for many trench coats, boots, and everything in between. This color is just as delicious in knitwear as it is in leather, so feel free to experiment with your next monochromatic mocha look by adding contrasting textures.

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Aritzia

Brandon Blackwood

Coach

02 of 07

Denim

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The Canadian tuxedo is an intimidating look to nail, but, nevertheless, it’s certainly having a renaissance. Take a page out of Sophia Roe’s styling book by mixing and matching different shades of denim for a tailored look that isn’t too on the nose. Alternatively, tone down the denim mania by pairing this material with your favorite neutral tones or a statement print.

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Everlane

Marc Jacobs

03 of 07

Olive Green

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What's better than a dirty martini? One with an outfit to match, of course. Like the classic cocktail, deep olive green is having a moment. It's easy to pair with other neutrals and closet staples (CC: denim), and its earthy tone makes it a seasonally appropriate choice. For a subtle nod to your favorite drink, pair this shade with a touch of bright red—a statement bag or shoes will do the trick perfectly.

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Fe Noel

Quince

Everlane

04 of 07

Burgundy

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Add more color to your wardrobe with chocolate brown's warm-toned cousin, burgundy. Deep reds and autumnal silhouettes are a match made in autumnal heaven, and it’s easy to wear as a core piece or as a shoe or handbag accent. If you want a dash of black in your outfit, burgundy and zebra print are a refreshing pairing.

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The Frankie Shop

Tory Burch

05 of 07

Cream

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Lighter hues can be intimidating to keep clean, but don't let that deter you from trying a cozy-chic shade of cream. So long as you can keep coffee and wine stains at bay, any off-white color is a stunning addition to your seasonal wardrobe. A fluffy cream coat gives even the most laid-back outfit an elevated feel, ivory pants contrast beautifully against a dark or patterned top, and few things are more classic for cold weather than a cashmere cream cardigan (try saying that three times fast).

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Skims

Intimissimi

06 of 07

Animal Print

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Wearing prints as neutrals? Maybe actually groundbreaking. When you want a break from monotones, elevate your look without overstating your fashion-forward status by adding a dash of animal print into your look. Leopard and zebra prints are always classic, but deer print seems to be taking over as the official animal print of fall 2025.

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Dolce Vita

Hollister

07 of 07

Sienna

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Burnt orange is one of the signature shades of fall, so it's only fitting to throw it into your wardrobe. Many leather coats, purses, and shoes come in some form of sienna or warm-leaning tan shade, which makes it an easy tie-in to your wardrobe. Another option is grabbing a cozy sweater or turtleneck in this shade to spice up your closet for the colder months ahead.

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Staud

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