3. Chocolate brown
Zimmermann
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While rich, moody chocolate is most often associated with fall, this summer is a major exception. The color has popped up in too many summer collections to count, and it looks incredible splashed over summery pieces like swimsuits, backless dresses, and heeled sandals. In fact, it might be brown’s shock value that makes it so right this summer; it’s so unexpected, it makes any wearer look like they know exactly what they’re doing.
Pairs well with: Lavender, orange, ivory
Wear instead of: Khaki. You’ll find plenty of dresses, capri pants, and shorts in the lighter colors right now, but it reads a little dated. This deeper pick feels more current.
Styling tip: Chocolate brown is a great alternative to black, so swap it in wherever you might defer to that color. It’s a great base for brighter hues, including all of the others on this list. Imagine a brown tankini with aqua flip-flops or a pink dress with chocolate sunglasses and heels.
