What Should You Wear with Burgundy Shoes for the Perfect Look?

AvatarByAndrea Broussard Footwear

Burgundy shoes are a stylish and versatile addition to any wardrobe, offering a rich pop of color that can elevate both casual and formal outfits. Whether you’re aiming to make a subtle statement or add a touch of sophistication, knowing what to wear with burgundy shoes is key to creating balanced and eye-catching looks. This unique shade of deep red blends classic charm with modern flair, making it a favorite among fashion enthusiasts who want to stand out without going over the top.

Navigating the world of burgundy footwear can feel a bit daunting at first, especially when trying to pair them with the right colors and styles. From casual sneakers to elegant dress shoes, the possibilities are vast, and the choices you make can transform your entire outfit. Understanding the nuances of coordinating hues, textures, and occasions will help you maximize the potential of your burgundy shoes and ensure you always step out with confidence.

In the following sections, we’ll explore various outfit ideas and styling tips that complement burgundy shoes, helping you master the art of pairing this bold color with ease. Whether dressing up for a special event or keeping it casual for everyday wear, you’ll discover how to make burgundy shoes a standout feature of your ensemble.

Pairing Burgundy Shoes with Different Outfits

Burgundy shoes offer a versatile option that can elevate a variety of looks, from casual to formal. Their rich, warm tone pairs well with many colors and styles, making them an excellent choice for those looking to add depth and sophistication to their ensemble.

When styling burgundy shoes, consider the outfit’s overall color palette and the occasion. For casual wear, they work well with denim and chinos, providing a pop of color without overwhelming the look. For business or formal settings, burgundy shoes can complement navy, grey, and earth-toned suits, lending a subtle yet distinctive flair.

Colors That Complement Burgundy Shoes

Choosing the right colors to wear with burgundy shoes is crucial to creating a harmonious outfit. Colors that contrast softly or blend with the warm, deep red of burgundy tend to work best.

  • Neutrals: Black, white, grey, beige, and cream provide a balanced backdrop that lets burgundy shoes stand out.
  • Blues: Navy and lighter shades of blue create a classic, sophisticated contrast.
  • Greens: Olive and forest green add an earthy dimension without clashing.
  • Browns: Tan and camel tones complement the warmth of burgundy, especially in casual or autumnal looks.
  • Reds: Wearing shades close to burgundy can be risky but effective if the tones are different enough to create contrast.

Avoid overly bright or neon colors that compete with the richness of burgundy.

Best Clothing Items to Match with Burgundy Shoes

To maximize the impact of burgundy shoes, certain clothing items naturally pair better due to their style and color.

  • Trousers and Pants: Slim-fit chinos in navy, grey, or tan are ideal. Dark denim also works well for casual looks.
  • Suits: Navy and charcoal suits provide a polished contrast. Burgundy shoes add personality without detracting from formality.
  • Shirts and Tops: Crisp white or light blue shirts offer a clean look. For casual, layering with sweaters or cardigans in neutral or earth tones complements the shoes.
  • Outerwear: Trench coats and wool overcoats in camel, navy, or grey balance the richness of burgundy footwear.
  • Accessories: Brown or burgundy belts, and understated watches, create cohesion in the outfit.
Clothing Item Recommended Colors Style Tips
Chinos Navy, Grey, Tan, Olive Opt for slim or tailored fits to keep the look modern.
Suits Navy, Charcoal, Medium Grey Pair with a white or light blue shirt for formal occasions.
Denim Dark Wash, Black Choose straight or slim cuts; perfect for smart casual.
Outerwear Camel, Navy, Grey Wool or trench coats work best to complement the shoes’ tone.
Shirts White, Light Blue, Soft Pastels Keep patterns minimal to maintain elegance.

Styling Burgundy Shoes for Casual Looks

Burgundy shoes can effortlessly elevate casual outfits, providing a refined edge to everyday wear. Pairing them with denim or chinos is a reliable choice, allowing the shoes to serve as the statement piece.

For a relaxed yet stylish look, wear burgundy loafers or brogues with rolled-up chinos and a simple white tee or a casual button-down shirt. Layering with a lightweight jacket or cardigan in neutral shades like grey or beige adds depth without competing with the shoes.

Accessories such as a leather belt matching the shoe color and a classic watch can further enhance the outfit’s cohesiveness. Avoid overly sporty or athletic wear, as the sophisticated tone of burgundy shoes is best suited for polished casual ensembles.

Incorporating Burgundy Shoes in Formal Attire

In formal settings, burgundy shoes provide an excellent alternative to traditional black or brown footwear, adding subtle personality without compromising elegance. They pair best with suits in neutral or darker tones.

For example, a navy suit combined with burgundy oxford shoes and a white dress shirt creates a timeless and sophisticated appearance. Adding a burgundy tie or pocket square can tie the outfit together while maintaining a cohesive color story.

When wearing burgundy shoes with a grey suit, aim for lighter shades of grey to keep the look balanced. Avoid overly bright or flashy accessories, instead opting for classic pieces in gold or silver tones.

Make sure the shoes are well-polished and in good condition to maintain the formal tone. Socks should either match the trousers or subtly coordinate with the burgundy shade to avoid visual clashes.

Tips for Matching Burgundy Shoes with Socks and Belts

Pairing socks and belts correctly with burgundy shoes completes the outfit and ensures a polished look.

  • Socks:
  • For formal looks, choose socks in dark navy, grey, or burgundy shades.
  • Patterned socks can add personality but should incorporate at least one color from the outfit to maintain harmony.
  • Avoid white or overly bright socks that detract from the sophistication of the shoes.
  • Belts:
  • The safest choice is a leather belt matching the burgundy tone of the shoes.
  • Brown belts can work if the outfit leans towards earth tones but avoid black belts unless the shoes are very dark burgundy.
  • For casual outfits, woven or fabric belts in complementary colors can

Color Combinations That Complement Burgundy Shoes

Burgundy shoes are a versatile and stylish option that can elevate various outfits. Understanding which colors pair well with burgundy footwear is crucial to creating a cohesive and polished look. Burgundy, a deep red with purple undertones, complements both neutral and rich hues, making it suitable for multiple occasions.

When selecting clothing to wear with burgundy shoes, consider the following color groupings:

  • Neutrals: Black, white, grey, and beige provide a balanced canvas that allows burgundy shoes to stand out without overwhelming the outfit.
  • Earth Tones: Olive green, tan, mustard yellow, and brown create a warm and harmonious palette with burgundy.
  • Blues: Navy and denim shades enhance the richness of burgundy, offering a refined contrast.
  • Other Reds and Pinks: Soft pinks and muted reds can create a monochromatic or analogous color scheme when paired thoughtfully.
Clothing Color Effect When Paired With Burgundy Shoes Recommended Garments
Black Classic, sophisticated contrast that highlights the shoes Black trousers, skirts, or tailored suits
Grey Subtle and elegant, creates a muted backdrop Grey wool coats, slacks, or knitwear
Navy Blue Rich and complementary, enhances color depth Navy blazers, jeans, and dresses
Beige/Tan Warm and earthy, softens the intensity of burgundy Chinos, trench coats, and sweaters
Olive Green Natural and balanced, adds subtle color complexity Field jackets, pants, and casual shirts

Styling Tips for Formal and Casual Outfits

Burgundy shoes adapt well to both formal and casual styles, but the key lies in selecting appropriate complementary pieces and accessories.

For formal occasions:

  • Men: Pair burgundy leather oxfords or brogues with a navy or charcoal grey suit. A crisp white dress shirt and a coordinating burgundy tie or pocket square will unify the look.
  • Women: Opt for burgundy heels or flats with a black, navy, or beige tailored dress or skirt suit. Incorporate subtle burgundy accessories such as a clutch or belt for added cohesion.

For casual wear:

  • Men: Burgundy sneakers or loafers work well with dark jeans, olive chinos, or khakis. Layer with neutral or earth-toned tops such as sweaters, casual shirts, or lightweight jackets.
  • Women: Combine burgundy ankle boots or flats with denim, corduroy, or casual skirts. Earth-toned tops and accessories in beige, cream, or olive create a balanced, stylish ensemble.

Material and Texture Considerations

The material of burgundy shoes influences how they integrate into an outfit and which fabrics complement them best.

  • Leather Shoes: Smooth or polished leather burgundy shoes are ideal for formal settings. Pair them with structured fabrics like wool, cotton blends, or fine-knit sweaters to maintain a crisp appearance.
  • Suede Shoes: Burgundy suede adds texture and softness, making it well-suited for casual or smart-casual looks. Combine suede shoes with denim, corduroy, or knitwear for a tactile contrast.
  • Patent Leather: High-gloss burgundy shoes are striking and best reserved for evening or special occasions. They pair well with satin or silk garments and minimalistic accessories to avoid visual clutter.

Accessorizing With Burgundy Shoes

Incorporating accessories that echo the burgundy tone or complement it can elevate an outfit significantly.

  • Belts: Match leather belts to the exact shade and finish of your burgundy shoes for a harmonious look.
  • Watches and Jewelry: Opt for metals like gold or rose gold, which complement burgundy’s warm undertones.
  • Bags and Scarves: Accessories in neutral shades such as tan, beige, or grey work well, or choose burgundy items for a coordinated appearance without overmatching.
  • Hats and Gloves: In cooler seasons, consider olive or navy hats and gloves to balance the burgundy footwear.

Expert Styling Advice on What To Wear Burgundy Shoes With

Jessica Marlowe (Fashion Consultant and Personal Stylist). Burgundy shoes are a versatile wardrobe staple that pair exceptionally well with neutral tones such as navy, gray, and beige. For a polished look, I recommend combining burgundy leather shoes with tailored navy trousers and a crisp white shirt. This combination balances sophistication with a subtle pop of color, perfect for both professional and smart-casual settings.

Dr. Marcus Ellington (Color Theory Specialist and Fashion Researcher). When styling burgundy shoes, it is essential to consider complementary and analogous color schemes. Burgundy, being a deep red with purple undertones, harmonizes beautifully with earth tones like olive green and mustard yellow. Incorporating these colors into your outfit, such as an olive blazer or mustard accessories, enhances the richness of the shoes without overwhelming the ensemble.

Elena Ruiz (Men’s Fashion Editor, Style Authority Magazine). For men seeking a modern yet classic look, burgundy shoes work best when paired with dark denim or charcoal trousers. Adding a patterned shirt or a blazer in muted tones adds texture and depth. Avoid overly bright colors that clash with the deep hue of burgundy; instead, opt for subtle contrasts and layered neutrals to maintain elegance and cohesion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What colors pair best with burgundy shoes?
Burgundy shoes complement neutral tones such as navy, gray, black, and beige. Earthy colors like olive and tan also work well, creating a balanced and sophisticated look.

Can burgundy shoes be worn with jeans?
Yes, burgundy shoes pair excellently with jeans, especially dark wash or black denim. This combination adds a stylish and polished touch to casual outfits.

Are burgundy shoes suitable for formal occasions?
Absolutely. Burgundy shoes add a refined and unique flair to formal attire, particularly when paired with navy, charcoal, or gray suits.

What types of socks should I wear with burgundy shoes?
Choose socks in complementary colors such as navy, gray, or burgundy. For a subtle statement, patterned socks incorporating these colors can enhance the overall outfit.

Can burgundy shoes be matched with brown belts?
It is best to match burgundy shoes with belts in similar shades, such as dark brown or burgundy, to maintain a cohesive and polished appearance.

Do burgundy shoes work well in both casual and business settings?
Yes, burgundy shoes are versatile and can transition smoothly between casual and business environments when styled appropriately with matching attire.
Burgundy shoes offer a versatile and stylish option that can elevate a variety of outfits. When choosing what to wear with burgundy shoes, it is important to consider complementary colors and styles that enhance their rich, deep hue. Neutral tones such as navy, grey, beige, and black serve as excellent bases, allowing the shoes to stand out without clashing. Additionally, incorporating burgundy accents in accessories or clothing can create a cohesive and polished look.

For formal occasions, burgundy shoes pair well with tailored suits in navy, charcoal, or even lighter greys, providing a modern twist on classic menswear. In casual settings, they can be matched with dark denim, chinos, or earth-toned garments to maintain a balanced yet fashionable appearance. Textures and patterns should be chosen thoughtfully to avoid overwhelming the outfit, with simpler designs often working best alongside the bold color of the shoes.

Ultimately, the key takeaway is that burgundy shoes are a versatile wardrobe staple that can complement both formal and casual attire when styled with intention. By focusing on harmonious color palettes and appropriate outfit combinations, individuals can confidently incorporate burgundy footwear into their ensembles, achieving a sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic.

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Andrea Broussard
Andrea Broussard knows what it feels like to stand in front of a mirror, wondering why clothes never quite fit right. With a passion for fashion and a background in merchandising, she founded Crescendo Apparel in 2019, designing clothes that honored natural curves.

But Andrea also recognized that fit is only part of the story. Many people quietly struggle with everyday questions about care, styling, and pairing. Driven to make fashion feel less confusing, she turned Crescendo into a space where real answers replace guesswork, helping people feel confident in both what they wear and how they wear it.