This season, our ongoing love affair with flats isn’t limited to the classic ballet style —it extends across the board, from girlish Mary Janes, to the preppiest slip-on loafers. But when it comes to colour, there has been a change, and something softer is stepping in: the most sumptuous brown shades.

No longer confined to default black, our most-worn shoes are embracing a richer, earthier palette — deep chocolates, toasted chestnuts, and milky tans — hues that feel inherently tied to the quiet elegance of winter dressing. This isn’t just a fleeting update; designers have been steadily paving the way. Miu Miu’s boat shoes, The Row’s buttery-soft minimal takes, Alaïa’s deep chocolate mesh, Saint Laurent’s polished loafers, and Manolo Blahnik’s suede mahogany tones have all helped cement brown flats as a new-season staple.

Naturally, the trend has since filtered down to high street brands like Tony Bianco, Reformation, and Alias Mae, proving that this isn’t a movement reserved for fashion insiders alone. The appeal is clear: brown flats bring versatility and easy warmth to winter outfits, pairing effortlessly with everything from wool trousers and slouchy denim, to midi skirts and oversized knits in soft neutrals.

For Australian winters — which (thankfully) favour light layering over heavy-duty insulation — brown flats offer the best of both worlds: a light-footed chicness without compromising on comfort or practicality. They soften a silhouette, add depth to tonal looks, and feel fresh without trying too hard.

Below, step into the RUSSH edit of the best brown flats to carry you through the 2025 winter season.

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