Pairing navy blue pants with a black jacket can make for a stylish and sophisticated look. However, some people wonder if blue and black should be avoided as a color combination. There are no hard and fast rules in fashion, so wearing navy and black together can work beautifully if done right. Here are some tips on how to successfully wear navy blue pants with a black jacket.
Complementary Colors
Navy blue and black are actually complementary colors on the color wheel. This means they look great when paired together in an outfit. Navy has a brightness and vibrancy that contrasts nicely with the depth and richness of black. When coordinated well, the navy blue pants provide a pop of color against the black jacket. Just be sure the shades of blue and black work well together. A deeper navy pairs best with black, rather than a light or bright blue.
Creating a Slim Silhouette
Wearing black on top and blue on the bottom creates a slimming effect on the body. The lighter color draws the eye downward, creating the illusion of longer legs. Meanwhile, the black jacket slims the upper body. This makes the silhouette appear more flattering and streamlined. To enhance the effect, opt for straight leg or skinny navy pants. Avoid patterns and select dark rinse denim or dress pants in navy.
Formal Versus Casual Style
The formality of the navy blue pants and black jacket outfit depends on the fabric and cuts you choose. For a more formal business look, pair black blazer or suit jacket with flat front navy pants in a crepe or wool material. Finish it off with black oxford shoes and a crisp shirt. For casual wear, go with dark wash jeans on the bottom and a black leather jacket or cardigan on top. Chelsea boots or white sneakers complete this look.
Accessorizing the Outfit
Accessories provide the perfect way to bring the navy and black combination together. Ties, belts and shoes in coordinating blue and black hues help make the pairing look intentional. Metallic accessories like silver jewelry and handbags also complement the two colors nicely. White shirts and patterns like gingham, stripes or polka dots gives your outfit some contrast. Finally, shades like gray, tan or light pink work well for layering pieces.
Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas
When styling navy and black, there are a few potential missteps to avoid. First, beware wearing too much of both colors together or it can look overly dark and heavy. Lighten it up with lighter shades in your accessories or hair. Second, prevent your outfit from appearing boring or flat by incorporating interesting silhouettes, details and textures. And finally, stay away from pairing a lighter blue jacket on top with black pants or skirt on the bottom. This combination tends to look thrown together and awkward.
Tips for Different Body Types
Here are some tips for wearing navy blue pants and a black jacket based on different body shapes:
Pear shape:
– Balance out full hips and thighs by wearing a longer black blazer or jacket
– Choose straight leg or bootcut pants to add balance
– Add chunky black shoes or heels to anchor the outfit
Athletic or straight shape:
– Create curves by wearing a nipped in jacket in black
– Opt for skinny jeans or slim fit pants to emphasize the legs
– Add a belt to define the waist
Hourglass shape:
– Accentuate your shape with a tailored black jacket
– Wear dark skinny jeans to show off curves
– Add wedges or heels to elongate the legs
Apple shape:
– Lengthen the silhouette with an elongated black jacket
– Bootcut or wide leg pants add balance to the lower body
– Minimal accessories keep the focus on the streamlined outline
Outfit Ideas
Here are a few outfit ideas for wearing navy blue pants with a black jacket for different occasions:
Workwear:
– Navy trousers with black blazer, white button down shirt, black oxfords
– Navy pencil skirt with black cropped jacket, black pumps
Casual daytime:
– Dark wash jeans with black leather moto jacket, white t-shirt, booties
– Navy joggers with black hoodie, white sneakers
Date night:
– Navy jumpsuit with black blazer, strappy heels
– Navy cocktail dress with black leather jacket, black stilettos
Formal event:
– Navy suit with black tie and dress shirt, oxford shoes
– Navy evening gown with black tuxedo jacket, black pumps
Navy and Black Through the Seasons
One benefit of the navy and black pairing is its versatility across seasons:
Spring:
– Navy trousers with black denim jacket
– Light layers like a black cardigan or duster coat
Summer:
– Navy shorts and black sleeveless blouse
– Flowy maxi skirt with black jean jacket
Fall:
– Dark skinny jeans with black leather riding boots
– Navy joggers with black hoodie or bomber jacket
Winter:
– Navy turtleneck with black pea coat or wool overcoat
– Navy sweater dress with black tights and ankle boots
Conclusion
Navy blue pants paired with a black jacket can be an extremely versatile outfit combination. The colors complement each other beautifully, creating a pulled together yet stylish look. Just keep in mind a few key tips, like choosing the right shades and balances of each color. Pay attention to silhouette, mixing textures and adding accessories. Avoid fashion faux pas like too much navy and black or the wrong color order. Tailor your outfits to flatter your body type. With so many options for wearing this color pairing, you’re sure to find an option perfect for any occasion and season. The navy and black duo has endless styling potential.
