Burgundy (or maroon) suits have become a reliable move for anyone who wants to differentiate their look. But the wrong shoes can quickly spoil an otherwise easy style win. Below, we break down the best shoe colors for a burgundy suit—plus when, where, and how to wear each—so your look lands in the top percentile of every room you enter.
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The Simple Answer
Keep it classic: polished black Oxfords for formal events, dark‑brown loafers for everything else. For style‑forward occasions, oxblood or medium brown can work—so long as the rest of your look follows the guidelines below.
G.H. Bass Weejuns Dark Brown Loafers from The Black Tux
Why Shoe Color Matters
Because burgundy lives between red and purple, it carries natural warmth and depth. The shoe you choose should either sharpen that richness (black), complement it (brown), echo it (oxblood), or intentionally contrast it (white). In formal wear, color also signals dress code: the darker the shoe, the more formal the outfit.
Best Shoe Colors for a Burgundy Suit
Black Oxfords
The Formal Classic
A high‑shine black Oxford is unbeatable for black‑tie‑optional weddings, evening galas, and anything with the word “commencement.” The cool neutral grounds burgundy’s red undertone and keeps the overall palette crisp. Match with a black leather belt and a slim black tie to lock in the formality.
G.H. Bass Monogram Black Derby Shoes from The Black Tux
Only have a pair of derbies in your closet? These work just as well—they're slightly less formal, but if you're wearing a burgundy suit or tuxedo, you're unlikely to be attending a high-formality event anyway. Love the one you're with.
Dark‑Brown Derbies
Warm & Versatile
Rich chocolate or espresso Derbies soften a burgundy suit and lean slightly more casual—think daytime ceremonies, cocktail receptions, or creative‑industry presentations. The similar temperature of the two colors creates harmony while still offering enough contrast that your shoes don’t disappear.
Oxblood or Burgundy Monks
Monochromatic Statement
Going tone‑on‑tone broadcasts confidence. Choose a shoe one shade darker than your suit so the pieces don’t blur together. Pair with a pale‑blue shirt and a matte burgundy tie for balance, and keep the rest of your accessories subtle.
Tan Brogues
Daytime Smart‑Casual
Lighter browns pop against burgundy and work best in spring and summer daylight. The perforations on brogues echo burgundy’s heritage vibe; just keep the rest of your look restrained—think white pocket square, knit tie, and no vest.
White Minimal Sneakers
Modern & Casual
Clean, low‑profile leather sneakers can dress the suit down for rooftop parties or rehearsal‑dinner after‑hours. Stick to tapered pants with little to no break, swap your dress shirt for a tucked‑in tee, and skip the tie entirely. Sneakers must be spotless; if the soles aren’t bright, the look falls apart. Note that this is a very casual look and we wouldn't recommend it for any formal occasion.
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Coordinating Belts & Accessories
In formal wear, your belt should match your shoes—black with black, brown with brown, oxblood with oxblood. Socks should either echo the suit color or pick up the shoe shade; avoid novelty prints when the suit itself is already the focal point. Metals can follow your watch: silver for cooler palettes (black, gray), gold for warmer (brown, tan).
Brown Leather Belt by The Black Tux
Season & Occasion Cheat‑Sheet
- Spring/Summer (daytime): Tan Brogues or white sneakers (for casual events) lighten the mood.
- Fall/Winter (evening): Black Oxfords or gray suede keep the look grounded.
- Weddings: Black for formal vows; dark‑brown loafers for rustic barns; oxblood Monks also work here for a monochromatic look.
- Business: Black or brown leather only—always skip sneakers.
How to Choose in 3 Steps
- Check the dress code. If the invite mentions “formal” or starts after 6 p.m., default to black or dark brown.
- Match the mood. Day events or outdoor venues open the door for loafers in lighter browns or suede.
- Consider continuity. Match your belt, watch strap, and any leather bag with your shoe color for a deliberate finish.
FAQs
Can I wear black shoes with a burgundy suit?
Absolutely—black is the go‑to for maximum formality.
Is it okay to match burgundy shoes to a burgundy suit?
Yes, but keep the shoes a notch darker and limit the rest of your palette to neutrals.
What shoe color works for a burgundy tux at a wedding?
Stick with black patent Oxfords or calfskin for classic appeal.
Are suede shoes formal enough?
Dark suede Derbies can pass for semi‑formal, but always wear leather for true black tie optional and high-formality dress codes.
Can I wear sneakers with a burgundy suit?
Only in smart‑casual contexts and only pristine, minimal styles.
Final Thoughts
A burgundy suit already tells the room you know what you’re doing; the right shoes prove it. Once you've chosen the perfect burgundy suit, complete the look with expertly crafted dress shoes in the right color.
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