I love these shoes, I just put on loafers and this is one of my favorite pairs. I wear mine in casual wear, to work (business deal) or just for running around town. They are a rich, deep, dark black, but the velvet gives them a slight shimmer when the light hits them. They are comfortable to wear for a long time. The reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because within 20 minutes of putting it on for the first time I started getting blisters on the top of my foot, just below my Achilles tendon. I was so upset because I thought I couldn't wear them. However, I went to Walmart and bought some padded insoles, which I think are called heel guards. Either way, they stick to the inside of the back of the shoe for cushioning and bam, no more sores. Also, I can recommend buying a Tarrago Hightech Nano Protector Spray or similar and treating it before use. Velvet looks lovely but is difficult to keep clean, but with the nanospray it gives them a nice layer of protection that helps them stay dry and clean!