Brown leather jackets are among the most underrated items in our closet. Often playing second string to the ever-popular black leather jacket, this wardrobe staple never quite gets the credit it deserves — but that's about to change. Don't get it twisted; black leather jackets aren't out, but brown leather jackets are in. They're actually a more wearable and flattering alternative to your go-to black.

According to personal stylist Elysha Lenkin, brown suits a wider range of skin tones than black. 

"[Black] can appear harsh and drain the color from the face, while brown can have a warmer, more natural effect," she explained. Brown also gives off a more relaxed and down-to-earth vibe, she added. Intrigued? Us too. That's why we tapped Lenkin and top stylists Zoe Gofman and Naina Singla to find out how to incorporate the must-have garment into our outfit rotation. Ahead, they share their favorite brown leather jacket outfits, plus pro styling tips.

Meet the expert

• Elysha Lenkin is a New York City-based personal stylist. She has over 25 years of experience in the fashion industry.
• Zoe Gofman is a celebrity stylist. Her clients include Shanina Shaik, Adriana Lima, and Meredith Duxbury, among others.
• Naina Singla is a stylist and fashion consultant. She is based in Washington, D.C.

Keep scrolling for how to wear a brown leather jacket, according to experts.

Upgrade Your Outerwear

"People who are starting to break out of their comfort zones and wear more than just black leather jackets are onto something," said Gofman. In fact, brown leather jackets are one of the most versatile layers you can own. 

"[They're] great for breaking up an all-black look, and they're also great to style for a more casual look."

Opt for a Bracket

A brown leather trench provides the perfect amount of cover for a sheer top and mini skirt. 

"To create a dressier and more upscale look, throw on a short brown leather jacket with a fitted midi denim skirt and heels," Singla recommended. "This on-trend look is perfect for dinner and a night out on the town."

Experiment with Alternative Shades

While we love a classic and trendy potato brown, there are a range of brown shades that you can — and should — incorporate into your aesthetic. For instance, this reddish brown leather blazer is subtle yet statement-making. 

"This look is a great transition day to night look for drinks with colleagues after work," Singla said.

Invest in a Matching Set

Matching set? Power suit? Call it what you want, but this brown leather jacket outfit is a lesson in understated beauty. 

"For a work-friendly look, go tonal with a cream-colored crew neck thin sweater, wide-leg cropped cream pants, and brown loafers," suggested Lenkin. "Your buttery soft brown leather blazer will be the perfect finish for this outfit." 

Colorful accessories will take it to the next level.

Find Balance

From short moto jackets to long trenches, brown leather jackets come in various lengths and styles. Here, we see how a sleek trench brings some sophistication to an eclectic dress-over-pants style.

Elevate Your Workwear

Believe it or not, brown goes with nearly every color you can imagine. So the next time you're heading to the office, throw on your brown leather jacket as the final layer to your outfit — whatever color that may be.

Play with Contrast

"To create a daytime look, it's ideal to combine contrasting tones of light and dark together," stressed Singla. "The color of the jacket could be in buttery shades of brown such as cognac and camel." 

The effect is a monochromatic outfit that simply works.

To transition this look for warmer weather, Singla recommended pairing your jacket with a silk blouse. According to the stylist, this mix of leather and silk textures will create a style that is on trend yet unexpected for spring.

Put a Spin on Athleisure

To add interest to an otherwise casual outfit, consider a brown leather jacket. 

"I am big on wearing a leather jacket with a lounge look," said Gofman. Here, oversized outerwear combined with an athletic skirt creates an on-trend jellyfish silhouette.

Let It Hang

If Sporty Spice were a rock star, we're pretty sure she'd look like this. While the crop top and baggy jeans are stylish, they're also rather ordinary on their own. The jacket adds that something extra.

Go Dress-y

A leather jacket-and-dress combo is always a good idea, noted Gofman. If you like florals but worry that they can be too froufrou, a leather jacket will add some edge. 

"For a fun afternoon out with friends, pair your brown leather moto jacket with a belted, floral midi dress in an earthy color palette," suggested Lenkin. "Add knee-high camel boots to complete the look."

Wear It As a Shirt

Yes, black and brown go together, and this snake-print shacket with wide-leg trousers proves it. Sneakers lend a casual finishing touch that makes the outfit elegant yet effortless.

Embrace Schoolcore

The schoolcore trend seems to be everywhere these days. For an interpretation that doesn't feel too trite, make your blazer a brown leather one and swap out your loafers or Mary Janes for combat boots instead.

Give Off Varsity Vibes

Varsity jackets are back, and this oversized brown leather iteration is original and edgy. Pair it with layered shirts and cargo pants for an aesthetic that mixes comfort and style.

Modernize Your LBD

The classic LBD gets a modern makeover with an oversized leather jacket and knee-high boots. It's a lesson in casual sophistication.

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