When putting together an outfit, one of the most common questions is whether black pants can be paired with a navy blue top. With black and navy both being neutral dark colors, it may seem like an easy combination. However, there are some important considerations when mixing these two shades. In this article, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of wearing black pants with navy blue so you can feel confident in choosing pieces that complement each other.
The Short Answer
The short answer is yes, black pants can go with navy blue if done correctly. Black and navy are classic neutral colors that are easy to match with other pieces in your wardrobe. However, there are a few guidelines to follow:
- Make sure the shades are distinctly different – pair a true navy with black, not midnight navy.
- Add lighter pieces like white, khaki or gray on top to bridge the gap between the dark shades.
- Anchor with shoes in a third color like brown, tan or red.
- Accessories like belts and jewelry also help connect the colors.
Overall, the most foolproof way to pull off black and navy is to separate them – black bottoms with a navy top or vice versa. When anchoring them with lighter neutrals and accessories, they can work together harmoniously in one chic outfit.
The Dos and Don’ts
Now that we’ve established black and navy can pair nicely, let’s get into the nitty gritty dos and don’ts of combining them:
DO choose black pants in a dressier fabric
Thicker, matte black fabrics like ponte knit, wool, and twill all work well with navy. Stay away from casual black jeans or leggings.
DON’T pair black denim on bottom with navy up top
The casual vibe of black jeans clashes with polished navy pieces. Stick to black trousers or a skirt instead.
DO add lighter pieces between the navy and black
As mentioned earlier, lighter colors act as a bridge between the dark shades. Try a crisp white button-up, chambray shirt, pale pink blouse or khaki trench between black bottoms and navy top.
DON’T wear black and navy together without lighter pieces
Wearing a navy top and black pants or skirt with nothing to break it up can look too harsh and heavy. Add lighter pieces in neutral or pastel shades.
DO anchor with shoes in brown, tan, red or white
Ground the black and navy combination with shoes in a lighter, complementary color. Nude or metallic shoes also work beautifully.
DON’T wear black shoes with black and navy
Again, sticking to just black and navy with black footwear looks too heavy. Opt for shoes in lighter hues instead.
DO add metallic or navy accessories
Jewelry, bags, belts and other accessories in silver, gold or navy nicely complement the color pairing.
DON’T go overboard mixing lots of colors and patterns
Black and navy is a versatile neutral pairing that can easily be overpowered. Keep other pieces minimal and let these key colors shine.
Outfit Ideas
Now that we’ve covered the dos and don’ts, let’s look at some chic outfit examples to inspire you:
| Outfit | What Works |
|---|---|
| Black trousers, navy blazer, white button-up, tan loafers | Light button-up separates black and navy. Tan loafers anchor the look. |
| Black a-line skirt, chambray shirt, navy cardigan, nude heels | Chambray shirt bridges gap between dark skirt and cardigan. Nude heels complement. |
| Black cigarette pants, pink silk blouse, navy blazer, metallic wedges | Pink blouse prevents heaviness. Metallic wedges pull look together. |
| Black maxi skirt, striped tee, navy kimono, cognac ankle boots | Casual tee and kimono balanced by structured maxi skirt. Ankle boots ground look. |
As you can see, the key guidelines of lighter pieces, complementary shoe colors and considered proportions allow black and navy to mesh seamlessly. Have fun mixing and matching to find combinations that suit your personal style!
Men’s Outfit Ideas
Black and navy is just as easy for men to pull off stylishly. Here are some examples of outfits that work:
| Outfit | What Works |
|---|---|
| Black jeans, navy sweater, white collared shirt, brown boots | White shirt keeps look lightweight. Brown boots complement navy. |
| Black trousers, light blue dress shirt, navy blazer, tan loafers | Light shirt prevents heaviness. Loafers anchor look. |
| Black chinos, heather gray tee, navy bomber jacket, white sneakers | Gray tee bridges gap between dark shades. Sneakers offset bomber jacket. |
The key guidelines apply here too – lighter shirts, thoughtful shoe choices and smart layering allow black and navy to work successfully.
Skin Tone Considerations
When deciding if black and navy complement your skin tone, consider the following tips:
- Fair/cool skin: Crisp, true navy looks great next to fair skin. Avoid softer, muted navy hues.
- Olive/warm skin: Deeper, inkier navy is particularly striking. Black grounds the richness.
- Darker skin: Bright, jewel-toned navy pops against darker skin. Stay away from matchy midnight navy.
The overall consensus is to choose a navy with enough contrast from black to avoid looking washed out or muddy. Brighten up the pairing with lighter neutrals and metallics to let your skin glow.
Navy Blue Shades to Pair with Black
With so many shades of navy blue out there, which ones actually complement black the best? Here’s a breakdown of the top navy hues to pair with black:
| Navy Shade | Description |
|---|---|
| True Navy | A bright, primary navy without purple or green undertones |
| Royal Navy | Deeper version of true navy, often with a slight purple tint |
| Cobalt Navy | Vibrant navy with a hint of cobalt blue |
| Sapphire Navy | Jewel-toned navy with a touch of jewel-tone sapphire |
These richer, brighter navy shades have enough contrast from black to pop. They make an elegant combination for both casual and formalwear.
Navy Shades to Avoid with Black
On the flip side, these navy hues are not the most ideal pairing for black:
| Navy Shade | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Midnight Navy | Too dark and similar to black |
| Dusty Navy | Muted and dreary next to black |
| Steel Navy | Grey undertones look drab with black |
These darker, duller navy shades don’t have enough contrast when paired with black. Opt for a brighter, jewel-toned navy instead.
Conclusion
Black and navy is a classic color combination that can look impeccable when worn correctly. The keys are choosing the right navy hue with enough contrast from black, incorporating lighter neutrals and colors, and anchoring the look with shoes in complementary tones. Avoid a mismatch like denim with tailoring and let accessories be your friend in elevating the pairing. With the right balance of color, contrast and smart styling, black pants can pair marvelously with navy blue for a look that is elegant, versatile and timeless.
