I was looking for a classic leather tall boot with a low heel and I found it with this boot! I take an 81/2 M and ordered that size. It fits perfectly (no breaking in period necessary). If you intend to wear heavy ski socks, I'd suggest ordering up a size, but since it is a boot meant to be worn mostly indoors (it's a nice boot!), my regular trouser socks worked just fine. It fits fairly snug on the calf (a plus for me) but there is a bit of elastic up by the buckle if you need some stretch. It is lined with a thin, silky, jersey-type material (the only reason it didn't get 5 stars from me), but it is smooth and comfortable. If you intend to put any kind of orthotic in the sole, definitely order up a size. the color is a rich cognac, exactly as pictured.