The golden brown color is pretty gold. I ended up keeping them, but the color was bordering on too shiny for me.

Other than that, they're a standard set of Birks. Quality. Amazingly comfortable. Seriously, if you haven't broken down and bought a pair or at least tried some on, I highly recommend it. Leather flip flops may last you one season and won't fit as nice, I guarantee. I treat mine like Gremlins--avoid getting them wet and they'll last forever and won't smell too bad ;)