Though you can’t go wrong buying a pair of classic black pumps, flats, or loafers, an alternative color option is making the rounds in fashion right now that’s just as timeless and chic, but with a slightly more of-the-moment touch that has well-dressed people across the U.S. and Europe trading in their go-to black footwear. The shade I’m referring to, of course, is burgundy (otherwise referred to as merlot, oxblood, maroon, and even Barolo if you’re Bottega Veneta).
Ever since fashion month back in February, burgundy’s been rising the ranks, showing up all over Paris Fashion Week street style, as well as on the runways at shows like Hermès, Gucci, and more. At first thought of as just another color trend, the neutral shade has transitioned into a seasonless wardrobe staple in record time, with content creators, editors, stylists, and yes, celebrities, all hopping on board, specifically in the shoe department.
On Katie Holmes in NYC:
(Image credit: Backgrid)
On Katie Holmes: A.P.C. Natacha Ramsay-Levi Edition Clinteau Jeans ($221); Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina ($215); Khaite Amelia Medium Leather Tote Bag ($2400)
Most recently, Katie Holmes was spotted walking around her neighborhood in New York City donning the same pair of burgundy ballet flats from Mansur Gavriel that she’s been seen wearing all summer long. With them, she kept her look pretty casual, with wide-leg A.P.C. jeans, a relaxed button-down shirt, a baseball cap, and Khaite’s cognac-colored Amelia tote. The outfit, though casual and low-key, appears tenfold more stylized and intentional because of the shoe color she selected, which ties all of the ensemble’s pieces together.
If flats aren’t your cup of tea, plenty of best-dressed candidates across Europe are opting for heeled alts in various shades of burgundy, from Gucci’s viral Signoria slingbacks to Phoebe Philo’s high-heeled pumps from her Celine days, which were spotted on stylists Elly McGaw and Hanna MW in Paris and Stockholm, respectively, this year.
On Elly McGaw in Paris:
On Elly McGaw: Gucci coat; Celine shoes
On Hanna MW in Stockholm:
On Hanna MW: Celine shoes; Balenciaga skirt
If you’re as ready as I am to trade in at least a few pairs of black shoes for sleeker, more 2025-ready burgundy alternatives, I’ve got you. Scroll down to shop the shoe trend that’s set to take off this fall and winter.
Shop the burgundy shoe trend:
Marc Fisher LTD
Gunner Pointed Toe Flat
My coworker Kristen has these and raves about them. I specifically love the sophisticated toe shape.
massimo dutti
Heeled Shoes with Rounded Toe
These will look so cute with sheer or fishnet tights in the fall.
MANGO
Patent Leather-Effect Ballet Flats
I just love the ankle strap detail on these.
Tony Bianco
Quill Slingback
This heel height will give you just enough of a boost without being uncomfortable or hard to walk in.
Jeffrey Campbell
Flach Swan-Lake
Everyone wants a pair of these.
Madewell
The Dimes Kitten Heel Boot
Trust me, you won’t regret opting for burgundy ankle boots over the same black ones you’ve bought time and time again.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules
I’ve had my eye on these for months. They’re so elegant.
CO
Co-Pointed Ballerina Flats
I just know these would go with everything, from a slip dress to jeans.
STEVE MADDEN
Gwyneth Leather Square Toe Boots
This heel height is perfect for an everyday fall boot.
Tony Bianco
Mary Jane Wynnie
Ballet pumps are everywhere right now.
Schutz
Ciara Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump
These are perfect for wearing with tights and a pencil skirt.
ZARA
Strappy Faux Patent Leather Sandals
This heel is high, yes, but it’ll look so good.
PAIGE
Maggy Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
Paige makes some of the *comfiest* heels of all time.
STEVE MADDEN
Maple Patent Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Snag these—you know you want to.
