When everyone else reaches for linens and ice-cream shades of sorbet, I slip, instead, into suede. The best contrast to sun-washed linen is a whisper of leather and late-night espresso. Chocolate and suede come from behind, a dark horse on the path, quietly claiming the spotlight, breathing a breath of fresh air, unexpected magic, and lending gravity and just a little rebellion to your summer staples. Anchor that ubiquitous white tee with a pair of chocolate brown linen pants—top with a vintage-esque leather jacket or blazer for evening. Flip-flops in chocolate? Yes, please. A sleeveless chocolate brown turtleneck and white jeans go together like chocolate and vanilla. Khaite’s Benny belt in coffee suede and silver? The cherry on top.
But clothes should never live only on hangers, so here’s what happens when chocolate steps off the page and hits the pavement… When donning dark tones in the summer, offset them with lighter color ways, like ivory or white. Dinner the night before graduation: Khaite Balton Blazer in Brown, DESTREE Frieda Sleeveless Sweater in green adds that pop of color, The Row 90’s bag in cream pulls the cream from the sweater and adds an uplifting note of ivory to the outfit, Rag & Bone Dre Boyfriend Jean provide just the right touch of slouch, and Gucci slingbacks in their signature brown colorway. Graduation weekend: TWP Carolyns Gown in Chocolate, an off white cashmere sweater slung across the shoulders, The Row 90’s bag and Gucci slingbacks make an encore appearance—bonus, also save room in the suitcase!
