If anyone can convince me to ditch one of fashion’s longest-standing “rules”, it’s Victoria Beckham. Catching my attention this week, Victoria stepped out in New York wearing a winter colour combination that fashion people have long deemed a no-no. For the occasion, she opted for a slightly relaxed chocolate-brown suit, styling it with a black lace-trim camisole for an uncomplicated but entirely elegant look.

Long labelled a fashion faux pas, black and chocolate brown have consistently appeared on lists of colour combinations to avoid. In reality, though, I’ve always found that pairing these two rich, dark shades brings a depth to an outfit that few other combinations can quite replicate.

(Image credit: @victoriabeckham)

By introducing black through the delicate lace-trimmed camisole, she broke up the chocolate-brown tailoring without compromising the look’s rich, tonal feel. True to form, she kept the rest of her styling pared-back, letting the combination do the talking rather than relying on excess jewellery or embellishment.

If this proves anything, it’s that some fashion rules are worth breaking. And if Victoria Beckham is anything to go by, black and chocolate brown might just be one of the chicest combinations to try this season. Read on to shop my favourite black and brown pieces available now.

Shop the Brown and Black Trend:

Massimo Dutti Fluid Wool Blend Total Look Blazer

Style this over a lace cami to get Victoria's look.

Reformation Blythe Silk Top

This also comes in yellow and beige.

Massimo Dutti Technical Flare Fit Pants

Whilst I love these in the chocolate brown, they also come in black.

Ghost Isabella Satin Blouse

An elegant satin blouse will never go out of style.

Mango Draped Dress With Perkins Collar

A thrown on long-sleeve dress will always be my winter go-to.

With Nothing Underneath Hutton Tuxedo

Every great wardrobe starts with a sleek black blazer.

Marks & Spencer Tote Bag

This is roomy enough to hold all of your staples.

Massimo Dutti Technical Straight-Leg Pants

Every great wardrobe starts with a pair of black tailored trousers.