Sofia Richie and EmRata Both Wore the Chocolate-Brown Party Dress Trend | Who What Wear

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

This morning, I logged on to my laptop and started my day with a quick browse through some recent celebrity looks.

Having been inundated with Halloween outfits over the past few days, I was keen to refresh my inspiration boards with some chic outfit ideas that didn't involve any fake blood or prosthetic makeup. Luckily, my search coincided with the wash-up of images from the LACMA Art and Film Gala that took place over the weekend. With a guest list brimming with celebrity style icons, this fancy event was the perfect chance to get to grips with some of the partywear trends set to take off this winter.

Retaining a sophisticated energy whilst indulging in some playful silhouettes, this event was a treasure trove of event-dressing inspiration. Impressed by the looks seen throughout, I couldn't help but notice a glossy winter 2024 trend embraced by some of my favourite celebrities on the night.

Stepping out in a rich and lavish shade, Sofia Richie Grainge, Emily Ratajkowski and Yara Shahidi all opted for dresses in an elegant chocolate-brown colour. Wearing hers in a full-coverage, draped design, Richie Grainge let the expensive-looking nature of the colour dominate her evening ensemble. Styling her Saint Laurent gown with gold earrings, a layered gold choker necklace and a spattering of rings and bangles, her outfit is one I would more than happily replicate.

Also styling the dress trend, Ratajkowski stepped out in a vintage off-the-shoulder vintage Donna Karan dress from the brand's autumn/winter 1996 collection. Featuring a drop-waist design consisting of a satin top and a velvet skirt, the dress spoke to several major winter trends whilst appearing timeless and classy thanks to the decadent shade.

Appearing across a number of autumn/winter 2024 runway collections earlier this year, chocolate-brown dresses have been affirmed by designers as a major look for the season ahead. Seen throughout the offerings of Bottega Veneta, Dior, Courrèges, Gucci and many others, refined brown dresses have been on my radar ever since.

Styling a floor-sweeping number in an equally rich hue, actor Yara Shahidi wore a twisted-strap Gucci dress with a halterneck design for the evening occasion. Pairing hers with chic drop earrings and a small selection of rings and bangles, she employed the same less-is-more approach to brown party-dress styling as Richie Grainge and Ratajkowski.

Spotted in Sienna Miller's new Marks & Spencer edit, as well as at Reformation, Zara and & Other Stories, the trend is hard to miss this season. And why would you want to? When it looks this sophisticated, it's no wonder so many stylish people are choosing brown dresses over black this year.

If you're also inspired to shop a trend that ensures the most elegant payoff, read on to discover our edit of the best chocolate-brown party dresses on the market.

Trust me: this won't be in stock for long.

This could easily pass as designer.

I love the bodice ruching on this elegant knitted dress.

The draped-dress trend is taking off this winter.

Shop this whilst it's on sale.

This also comes in 10 other shades.

Style with minimalist kitten-heel sandals.

The metallic thread detailing gives this a party-ready energy.

This looks more expensive than it is.

Style with knee-high boots or a pointed-toe heel.

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.

On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.

A combo I will live in.

By Nikki Chwatt

Chocolate brown galore.

By Nayiri Mampourian

Everything from scarf coats to relaxed knits.

By Bobby Schuessler

The chicest picks.

By Bobby Schuessler

There's something for every budget.

By Judith Jones

From classic to quirky.

By Natalie Cantell

No chance of getting stuck in a winter style rut.

By Judith Jones

Don't say I didn't warn you.

By Eliza Huber

The greatest of all time.

By Ana Escalante

It's cutting season, after all.

By Anna LaPlaca