Every year when the air starts to get chilly, there’s one color that sneaks its way back into our closets, makeup bags, and even our homes. Yep—you guessed it: burgundy.
It’s rich. It’s cozy. It’s elegant. And honestly, it’s one of those shades that just works no matter who you are or what your style is.
In this post, I want to chat about why burgundy is such a timeless color, how to wear it without overdoing it, the little mistakes to avoid, and of course, some easy ways to work it into your wardrobe through accessories. Think of this as your ultimate burgundy style guide—with a casual, real-life spin.
Why We Keep Coming Back to Burgundy
So what is it about burgundy that makes us love it so much every single fall and winter?
Well, first, it’s flattering on literally everyone. Whether your skin is fair, deep, or somewhere in between, burgundy has that magical ability to complement your tone without washing you out.
Second, it just feels right when the leaves start changing. It reminds us of red wine, cozy dinners, fireplaces, and even Christmas décor. It’s festive without screaming “holiday party,” and it’s chic without trying too hard.
And finally—burgundy is versatile. You can throw on a burgundy scarf with a neutral outfit and look instantly polished, or you can rock a full-on burgundy coat and make it the star of your look. It can be classy, romantic, edgy, or professional depending on how you style it.
The Psychology of Burgundy (aka: Why It Makes You Feel Powerful)
Colors affect our mood, and burgundy is one of those shades that carries a lot of meaning.
- Confidence, but quiet confidence. Unlike bright red, which can sometimes feel a little loud, burgundy has that “I’ve got it together” vibe without screaming for attention.
- Sophistication. Burgundy instantly makes an outfit feel more expensive—even if it’s not. It has that luxury factor built right in.
- Warmth. The brown undertones make it feel cozy and comforting, which is why we naturally gravitate toward it in the colder months.
- Romance. Burgundy is mysterious and slightly sultry. It’s a perfect date-night color because it’s bold without being over-the-top.
So yes, if you’ve ever put on a burgundy dress or lipstick and suddenly felt like your most powerful, put-together self, there’s a reason for that.
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How to Wear Burgundy Without Overthinking It
Okay, let’s get to the fun part—how to actually wear it.
Everyday Casual
Throw on a burgundy sweater with jeans and ankle boots. Add a crossbody bag in beige or taupe, and you’ve got a cozy, stylish fall outfit with zero effort.
Workwear
Swap your classic black blazer for a burgundy one. Pair it with a black turtleneck and tailored trousers, and suddenly you look polished and chic but not boring.
Evenings Out
Silky burgundy slip dress + gold jewelry + black leather jacket = instant date-night perfection.
Winter Layers
If you want to make a statement, go for a long burgundy coat. Layer it over creams, grays, or even olive green, and finish with a scarf and boots. It’s warm, chic, and so seasonal.
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Colors That Play Nicely with Burgundy
One of the things that makes burgundy so wearable is how easily it pairs with other shades.
- Neutrals: beige, cream, gray, black, and white are your best friends here.
- Earthy tones: olive, camel, and mustard keep things warm and cozy.
- Jewel tones: navy and emerald for a richer, more dramatic vibe.
- Metallics: gold if you want warmth, silver if you want cool sophistication.
Mistakes to Avoid with Burgundy
Even though burgundy is a forgiving shade, there are still a few things to watch out for:
- Too much of it. Head-to-toe burgundy can feel heavy unless you’re really leaning into a monochrome look. Break it up with neutrals or textures.
- Mixing with clashing brights. Neon and burgundy don’t usually get along. Save burgundy for softer or richer pairings.
- Ignoring undertones. Some burgundies lean purple, some more red, some brown. If you have a cooler undertone, go with plum-like burgundy. If you’re warmer, go with red-brown burgundy.
- Wrong fabrics. A burgundy knit feels cozy, a burgundy satin blouse feels luxe, a burgundy polyester top can sometimes feel flat. Fabric matters here.
Accessories: The Easy Way to Try Burgundy
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Not sure about a full burgundy outfit? No problem. Start with accessories.
- Handbags. A burgundy tote or crossbody goes with almost everything and looks way more interesting than plain black.
- Scarves. A chunky burgundy scarf will instantly upgrade a simple coat.
- Shoes. Burgundy boots or loafers are unexpected but versatile.
- Jewelry. Think burgundy stones, beads, or enamel. A little goes a long way.
- Makeup. A burgundy lipstick or nail polish can change your whole vibe in seconds.
And honestly, if you’re on a budget or just testing the waters, Amazon has tons of burgundy accessories that are stylish and affordable. I’ve found beautiful scarves, bags, and even some subtle jewelry pieces there that are perfect for adding a touch of burgundy to your look.
Burgundy Beyond Fashion
What’s cool about burgundy is that it’s not just for clothes.
- Home décor: Burgundy throw pillows, candles, or blankets can make a room feel cozy and inviting.
- Weddings: Burgundy bridesmaid dresses or flowers are timeless, romantic, and never go out of style.
- Seasonal vibes: Burgundy is tied to wine, holidays, and cozy winter gatherings—it’s a color that feels like an experience, not just a shade.
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