Black & Brown: A San Jose Vintage Clothing Staple Celebrates Two Decades of Style
For over two decades, Black & Brown has been a cornerstone of San Jose’s vintage and contemporary fashion scene. Founded by Monisha Murray, the boutique has grown from a small startup to two side-by-side stores offering a curated selection of clothing spanning the 1940s to the present day.
From Crossroads to Entrepreneurship
Monisha Murray’s journey in the buy-sell-trade world began with a job at Crossroads, a 40-store chain, straight out of high school. Over seven years, she rose to become a manager, opened the Santa Cruz location, and trained fresh buyers. “I’ve always thrifted,” Murray explained, recalling her early days as a “raver kid” drawn to Crossroads’ alternative vibe. San José Spotlight
Murray then honed her skills at Beacon’s Closet in New York City, an upscale buy-and-sell shop. After a year and a half, she realized her ambition to launch her own business. Returning to San Jose, she partnered with friends to open the first Black & Brown.
Building a Business and a Community
The early years were challenging. Murray juggled Black & Brown with a second job, working long hours to preserve the business afloat. “Those first three years were a struggle, and we weren’t getting paid,” she said. San José Spotlight Despite the difficulties, Murray remained committed to her vision.
Over time, Black & Brown expanded, moving to larger spaces on The Alameda and eventually to its current location at 751 W. San Carlos St. In San Jose. The business now occupies a two-story co-op building built in the 1920s, with retail space on the ground floor. San José Spotlight The upper floor houses 13 rooms previously rented to other shops, which Murray has opened up to create larger spaces.
A Curated Collection and a Focus on Quality
Black & Brown specializes in vintage designer clothing and on-trend pieces, offering a wide selection of unique and eclectic items. Visit San Jose Murray emphasizes timeless styles and quality fabrics, such as linens and silks. She similarly stays attuned to current trends, asking her team, “What do the kids want?” San José Spotlight
Murray avoids “fast fashion,” prioritizing garments made to last. The store’s inventory ranges from the 1940s to contemporary styles, with a practical lower limit – items older than the 1940s are typically more collectible and require specialized care.
More Than Just a Store
Black & Brown has become a community hub, hosting art exhibits and events around the local fashion and art scenes. Visit San Jose Customer Zerreen Kazi, introduced to the store by a friend, praised its distinctive pieces and knowledgeable staff, calling it “an experience you won’t find anywhere else in San Jose.” San José Spotlight
Recently, Murray expanded Black & Brown to include the adjacent space, formerly home to the American Improv Theatre, dedicating it to a full range of men’s fashion. She also incorporates home decor items from local designers.
Staying True to Roots
Despite the business’s growth, Murray remains committed to her original principles. “I’m a big believer in ‘stick to your roots,’” she said. “Stick to how you started. That’ll always be what your customers fell in love with in the first place.” San José Spotlight
Black & Brown Contact Information
- Location: 751 W. San Carlos St., San Jose
- Phone: (408) 298-1970
- Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. To 7 p.m.
- Buying Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. To 6 p.m.
Black & Brown celebrated 15 years in business on March 5th, 2026. LISC Bay Area