They're Here: 5 Expensive-Looking Shoe Colours That Will Instantly Make You Look Elegant and Put-Together

Regardless of budget, we all want to look expensive, right? Now, yes, an infinite bank balance and a wardrobe filled with The Row might help some on this endeavour, but unfortunately, I can't give you that. Instead, I can offer you some essential fashion guidance.

At its core, looking expensive is an art form. High-quality pieces, complementary colour palettes and a carefully curated capsule wardrobe will serve you well, but it's the finishing touches, such as your shoe colour choice, that really make the difference.

As Carrie Bradshaw always proved, the right shoes can make or break an outfit. Tailored trousers look great with trainers, sure, but with a heeled boot or a pair of soft loafers? You’ve added depth and a luxurious finish that your favourite sneakers simply can't achieve.

With shoe trends moving far slower than the rest of the fashion cycle, certain silhouettes have reigned supreme for years and continue to do so: think kitten heels, chunky and soft leather loafers, satin ballet flats and knee-high boots. In recent years, each has consistently reappeared on the runways and all over street-style looks.

From Chloé's boho renaissance, which saw the return of maximalist wooden-soled wedges in classic tan brown, to Miu Miu—Lyst index's hottest brand of 2025—steering the way for glossy black patent loafers and washed-brown boat shoes to be again deemed chic, certain shoe colours and shapes time and again prove their worth within the fashion set.

So, how to narrow down the shoe colours that will give that luxe finish you're after? Don't fret; I’ve done the research, delved into the trends and found the most expensive-looking shoe colours, no matter your budget. Plus, they work so well for autumn. Scroll to discover.

The Most Expensive-Looking Shoe Colours, Whatever Your Budget

1. Chocolate Brown

Style Notes: Brown shoes are undoubtedly one of the biggest footwear trends of the year. From boots to loafers, this rich, warm and versatile hue adds an air of polish and refinement to even the simplest looks, in a slightly more interesting way than traditional black.

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2. Burgundy

Style Notes: A super-sophisticated hue, burgundy shoes have a depth of colour which feels unique, fresh and undeniably expensive-looking in 2025. Glossy shades of merlot and oxblood will play well with your naturals and add a subtle pop of colour without shouting too loudly.

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3. Taupe Suede

Style Notes: Taupe, specifically taupe suede, has been an expensive-looking shoe colour for generations. Loro Piana, a quiet-luxury brand known for its high-quality craftspersonship and super-luxe designs, has become synonymous with this sandy shade. With a cool undertone, it styles well with so many of the colours that dominate an autumn wardrobe, and can provide both laid-back polish and sophisticated elevation.

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4. Glossy Black

Style Notes: Now, it goes without saying that black shoes will forever be chic; however, I find that glossy black shoes always look more refined than their matte counterparts. With a vinyl-like finish, patent shoes add a polished, slick energy to an outfit that smooth leather can’t match.

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5. Green

Style Notes: Green shoes? Expensive looking? I know, but as I said before, it's all about the shade. In a warm, earthy hue, green shoes become one of the easiest ways to tap into a new-season shade for autumn 2025, regardless of your style. If you're looking to add some dimension to your transitional looks, try styling green shoes with brown, black, beige and creams.

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