Coral and navy are both popular colors that look great for spring and summer outfits. Coral adds a fun pop of color, while navy is a neutral that pairs with almost anything. But can these two colors actually be worn together? The short answer is yes! Coral and navy complement each other surprisingly well.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to wear coral with navy to create stylish and sophisticated looks. We’ll go over the color theory behind this color combination, provide outfit ideas and style tips, and explain how to accessorize to tie your coral and navy pieces together. Read on for everything you need to know about successfully wearing coral with navy!
The Color Theory Behind Coral and Navy
On the color wheel, coral and navy are complementary colors. This means they are opposite each other. Complementary colors create a striking contrast when paired together in an outfit.
Coral is a warm, vibrant reddish-orange tone. It pops against cooler, more subdued shades like navy. Navy is a rich, deep blue. The bold coral makes the navy feel brighter.
Even though they differ quite a bit, coral and navy accent each other in flattering ways. The navy grounds the coral, keeping it from feeling too loud. Meanwhile, the coral brightens up the navy so an outfit doesn’t feel too somber.
Wearing complementary colors together allows you to achieve visual interest in your look. The color contrast draws the eye. So pairing coral and navy is an easy way to add excitement to any outfit!
Coral and Navy Outfit Ideas
There are many stylish ways to incorporate coral and navy pieces into your wardrobe. Here are some of our favorite outfit combinations featuring this color pair:
Coral top with navy pants or skirt
Pair a bright coral blouse or sweater with navy trousers or a navy skirt for a classic look. Tuck the top in for a tailored feel. Or knot it at the waist for a more casual vibe.
Navy dress with coral shoes and bag
Elevate a navy shift dress for summer by adding coral-colored heels or wedges. Carry a coral clutch for a coordinating finishing touch.
Coral shorts with a navy polo
For relaxed weekends, try coral shorts with a preppy navy polo shirt. Roll the sleeves for a laidback look.
Striped coral and navy dress
A striped dress combining both colors is a foolproof choice. The print ties the shades together into one cohesive look.
Coral blazer over a navy dress
Make a navy cocktail dress office-appropriate by layering it with a vibrant coral blazer. Add nude heels to keep the focus on the colors.
Tips for Wearing Coral and Navy
Follow these tips when putting together outfits in coral and navy:
Use one color as the main focus. Pick either the coral or navy as the dominant color in your outfit. Use the other shade as an accent. For example, wear a navy dress with coral jewelry. Or pair navy shorts with a coral top.
Add a neutral third piece. Incorporating a neutral color like white, tan, gray, or black helps the coral and navy balance each other. Try a white tee with coral shorts and navy flats. Or wear a tan trench over a striped coral and navy dress.
Use the 60-30-10 rule. This fashion trick can create pleasing color combinations. Wear your main color for 60% of the outfit, the secondary for 30%, and an accent for 10%. So if coral is your main hue, choose it for your dress and shoes. Use navy for your bag and jewelry.
Repeat both colors in your accessories. Tie your whole look together by choosing accessories that pick up on the two colors. A navy hat, coral earrings, navy shoes and a coral bag work nicely.
Stick to the same color family. For the most flattering combinations, use shades of coral and navy that have similar undertones. Pair an orange-leaning coral with a brighter navy. Or match a pinkish coral with a muted navy.
How to Accessorize Coral and Navy Outfits
Accessories are the perfect way to incorporate both coral and navy into your look with coordination. Consider these accessorizing ideas:
Handbags: Carry a small coral or navy leather bag. Or use one color for the bag and the other on the strap or tassels.
Shoes: Heels, wedges or flats in either tone work well. Or opt for patterned shoes pulling in both colors.
Jewelry: Layer coral and navy jewelry, like coral earrings and a navy pendant. Or choose coral bracelets with a navy watch.
Scarves and belts: Tie on a lightweight coral or navy scarf. Cinch the waist with a belt in one of the colors.
Hats and sunglasses: Complete your look with a floppy coral sun hat or wayfarers with navy frames.
Nail polish: Paint your fingers and toes alternating shades of coral and navy for a fun pop of color.
Hair accessories: Weave in a coral or navy ribbon. Top a ponytail with a bow clip in one of the hues.
Conclusion
Coral and navy may seem like an unexpected combination at first. But paired strategically, these complementary colors can look quite sophisticated. Use our tips to effortlessly blend coral and navy into stunning outfits.
With the right styling, you can wear coral with confidence. The coral adds feminine vibrancy while the navy keeps things polished. So don’t be afraid to have some fun mixing these two shades! From dresses to separates, the color pairing possibilities are endless.
