Nicky Haslam might have written it off as the ‘drab red’, but burgundy is still the autumn colour du jour. At Paris Fashion Week, it formed a key part of showgoers’ sartorial uniform – covering skirts, jackets and, most pervasively, heels.
Chanel’s two-tone pumps were the hottest ticket, as worn by actresses, content creators and cultural arbiters. At the brand’s catwalk show earlier this week, Adèle Exarchopoulos wore snakeskin burgundy courts with a low front, while Zufi Alexander and Christine Wuerfel Stauss were photographed in different variations of the two-tone variety. Chanel aside, we spotted patent heeled loafers at Lacoste, and pointed pumps at Miu Miu and Dior.
Adèle Exarchopoulos at the Chanel show in her burgundy heels
The reign of burgundy has been a few years in the making, becoming the fashion literate’s new neutral in the cooler months. As polished as black, but with the richness of a jewel tone, this deep shade of red is a clever way of making a classic wardrobe feel current. It brings depth and a quiet sensuality to an outfit without shouting.
Zufi Alexander outside the Chanel show in her two-tone burgundy pumps
Sometimes the smallest change can make the biggest impact, a style dictum Parisiennes know all too well. Although many of the woman seen wearing burgundy-toned heels last week weren’t permanently based in the city, it’s hard not to absorb Paris’ fashion philosophy when you’re there – the idea that subtle details, whether a strategic rolled cuff or a simple gold necklace, can transform a look. It’s exactly why the burgundy heel packs a style punch; they’re an easy, sophisticated twist on a classic.
It’s also a versatile shade, which means it can be worn with jeans, dresses, or – this year’s key style – skirts. A carefully chosen burgundy heel, be it a mule or a pointed pump, will make jeans feel polished, and go-to workwear fresher. They’ll also add personality to a LBD or any all-black ensemble. Like all the best buys, they simply make life a bit easier – an injection of elegance for the time-strapped. A trusty steed for autumn/winter 2026 and beyond, burgundy heels are an investment worth making.
Below, see 9 of our favourite pairs of burgundy heels to buy now.
