I wasn't sure if the shoes were dark red or light red from the pictures so I wanted to post a message for others who might be trying to find out the same thing and they are real bright fire engine red. They look great, especially for an overnight stay (homecoming). The bow tie has a flaw that has an extra piece of metal hanging down, but that doesn't detract from the look. I can cut it off with wire cutters, or I can just leave it. Otherwise I would have given them 5 stars. My son hasn't tried them on yet so I can't comment on sizing.