Black Shoes, Watch Out—This Alternative Color Is Chicer, More Elegant, and Just as Classic
Black is fashion's unofficial favorite color for a reason. Picking it is rarely the wrong answer, especially when it comes to shoes, whether you're investing in them or styling them. But hear me out—another color on the market for fall is making a strong case for the season's top shade. As it's sophisticated and seasonally appropriate, we're placing our bets on brown in all of its luxurious shades for the rest of 2024 and into 2025.
From luxe camel to saturated chocolate, heeled boots to chunky loafers, your quintessential fall shoes await you in the curated mix of rich brown footwear ahead. Lean into the earthiness of the season while still maintaining the versatility of easy, matches-everything black shoes. Below, I've broken down the best brown shoes for autumn by style for your shopping indulgence. Enjoy.
Heeled Boots
Brown boots are synonymous with transitional weather. This elegant substitute for your everyday black boots will immediately elevate and autumnize any look. Some personal favorites include a Western silhouette, a patent croc exterior, and lush suede.
Ballet Flats
Yes, ballet flats are still very in, and for chillier climates, the flats are best worn in an opulent brown. Not only do these shoes go with most looks, but they also span so many occasions. They're a very solid investment IMO.
Sneakers
As someone whose choice footwear is sneakers, the brown options are tugging at my wallet. Classic Adidas Sambas in brown? Yes, please. Go for tonal or contrasting details to make your brown sneakers more minimal or peak maximal.
Slingbacks
Brown slingbacks are a fall fashion favorite. Whether they include buckles or a T-strap, the chicness awaits. Expect to see these on all of your choice fashion follows this fall.
Loafers
You will never regret investing in a good pair of loafers. Personally, I think brown loafers are one of the best investments. With comfort and longevity, these shoes will be a go-to for as long as you want them to be.
Mules
Mules make for the perfect hybrid heels. While bridging the casual and formal gap, these shoes will take you from happy hours to weddings to nights out.
Copelyn is a freelance fashion and accessory editor who formerly worked for Who What Wear as an associate shopping editor. Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group, working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion departments. Copelyn has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, she freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion space and loves to upcycle clothing, home décor, and sneakers.
-
Burgundy Is Nice, But This Up-and-Coming Color Trend Is About to Dethrone It
Look regal and royal all fall.
-
People With Impeccable Taste Swear By COS—21 Chic Sale Finds to Take Advantage of Right Now
25% off? Yes, please.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your Buck
Stellar under-$150 finds right this way.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)
Here's to effortless outfits.
-
Here's What to Look For If You Want Ballet Flats That Scream 2026
If you haven't upgraded your ballet flats by now, wyd?
-
Soft Knits and Suede Boots Are on My Mind—Here's What's in My Nordstrom Cart
Get in the fall mood with these chic picks.
-
Fall Collections Are Starting to Land—These 33 Revolve Items Are Smart Purchases
Just think about the cost per wear on these.
-
I'm Channeling '90s Jennifer Aniston and Halle Berry With These 10 Fall-Ready Looks From Nordstrom
Minimalism at its finest.