As many have said, the color is much lighter than the picture. I would describe it as brown. For sizing, be sure to follow the recommendations in the description, buy one size larger than your waist. I followed that and with my belt I use the 3rd hole which means I have 2 extra holes for sideboard adjustment (ie loosening). The belt is made of nice material and good quality, but doesn't get 5 stars because of color distortion.