Building a Sustainable Closet: Black & Brown

The Beginnings

When I first moved to the South Bay back in 2004, I made it a point to find the hidden gems sprinkled through the San Jose neighborhoods. I remember going to Black & Brown for the first time in its tiny spot on San Carlos, and thinking that the women who run the store are badass. I loved how they brought vintage and modern together while ensuring the pieces they sell have a unique edge. 

I’ve followed the shop almost religiously since then. From blink and you’ll miss it shop on San Carlos to their storefront on the Alameda, and now in a two story building back on San Carlos, I feel that its gotten better with each move. Black & Brown has always been ahead of its time, bringing in a style that feels high end yet uniquely San Jose. 

The Beat of the San Jose Creative Scene

It’s pretty well known that San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley. When it comes to artistic endeavors, especially in fashion,  folks either flock to SF or Oakland. Monisha Murray, founder and owner, continues to be at the forefront of the creative scene in the South Bay. 

I’d imagine Black & Brown would be the type of store Denise Huxtable and Iona from Pretty in Pink would shop at. The store feels rebellious and free spirited.

Part Art Gallery Too!

There’s so much creativity and art in the space, that the shop also houses Seeing Things Gallery upstairs. I love lingering through the store to see what amazing secondhand pieces Monisha and her staff hand selected to sell. 

I rarely go fully into a trend or fashion, but rather I select my pieces by my feelings. Sometimes I feel a bohemian vibe other times I feel super minimalist or I’d rather go all maximalist. Black & Brown carries so many things that would fit my mood and I’d love forever. 

Black & Brown is located at:

751 W. San Carlos St
San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 298-1970