Navy and lavender are two classic colors that can look beautiful when paired together. But do they truly match? Let’s take a closer look at these colors and examine if they complement each other well.
Defining Navy and Lavender
Navy is a very dark shade of blue that is similar to but darker than your typical blue. It gets its name from the dark blue color used in British Royal Navy uniforms. Navy has a sophisticated, nautical vibe and is considered a neutral color.
Lavender is a light purple or violet shade that is quite soft and feminine. True lavender has a blue undertone that gives it a cool, relaxed feeling. The name comes from the flowering lavender plant, which produces purple flowers. Lavender is widely considered a calming, elegant color.
So navy leans dark, neutral, and nautical, while lavender is light, feminine, and soothing. Despite their differences, they can work beautifully together.
The Color Wheel
On the traditional color wheel, navy is a primary color while lavender is a tertiary color. Primary colors are the main hues (red, blue, yellow) that can be mixed to create all other colors. Tertiary colors are made by combining adjacent primary and secondary colors, like red-violet or blue-violet.
Navy sits right next to purple on the color wheel. Since lavender is a light purple shade, it naturally complements the deep blue navy quite well. Colors next to or near each other tend to match seamlessly.
Analyzing Undertones
When pairing colors, it’s important to consider their undertones. Undertone refers to the hints of color that come through even when looking at a pure shade. Both navy and lavender have blue undertones, though navy leans slightly warmer while lavender is quite cool.
Having the same or similar undertones allows these colors to blend smoothly. The blue character gives them a natural cohesion. Navy’s subtle warmth prevents the pairing from feeling too icy or crisp.
Trying Monochromatic Styling
One foolproof way to match navy and lavender is to use them monochromatically. This involves choosing fabrics, accessories, shoes, jewelry, etc. in graduated shades of the same color family.
For example, you might pair a deep navy dress with medium purple heels and a pale lavender clutch. Or rock a navy suit with a lavender shirt and matching print tie. Monochromatic looks are always elegantly pulled together.
| Navy Outfit Piece | Lavender Outfit Piece |
|---|---|
| Navy blazer | Lavender button-up shirt |
| Navy trousers | Lavender loafers |
Trying Complementary Styling
You can also style navy and lavender as complementary colors. This technique involves pairing colors from opposite sides of the color wheel. It creates high visual contrast but harmony when done right.
Some ideas for complementary navy and lavender outfits include:
– A lavender dress with navy heels and clutch
– A navy suit with a lavender dress shirt
– A navy sweater over a lavender button-down top
– Lavender jeans with a navy blazer on top
The contrast makes the different shades pop but doesn’t clash. Choose lavender and navy pieces in the same color saturation for balance.
Incorporating Neutrals
Don’t be afraid to add neutrals when combining navy and lavender. Timeless neutrals like white, tan, gray and black act as anchoring pieces that allow the lively colors to shine.
Consider a lavender skirt with a navy top and white jacket. Or a navy dress with tan wedges and a lavender bag. You can even do a full navy suit with a lavender tie and white dress shirt. The neutral pieces tie the look together.
Trying Analogous Colors
Analogous colors sit directly next to each other on the color wheel, so they naturally create a cohesive palette. Choosing analogous shades allows you to add more colors while still harmonizing with navy and lavender.
Some analogous options include:
– Pale blue – three hues away from lavender
– Plum – right next to lavender
– Mauve – one hue away from lavender
– Periwinkle – two hues from lavender
A navy skirt with a periwinkle top and lavender jewelry has a very soothing, feminine look. Adding in analogous shades creates depth.
Considering Triadic Colors
The triadic color scheme relies on three colors equally spaced on the color wheel. To match navy and lavender in a triad, choose a vibrant yellow like lemon, mustard, or gold.
Some stylish triadic outfit ideas that incorporate navy, lavender and yellow:
– A lavender dress with navy heels and gold jewelry
– A navy blazer over a yellow top with lavender pants
– A striped yellow and lavender skirt with a navy jacket
The lively yellow energizes the more subtle blue and purple shades.
Trying Split Complementary Colors
The split complementary approach uses three colors – a base color and the two hues on either side of its complement. For navy, this would mean lavender (the complement) and the two colors adjacent to orange.
Some split complement outfit ideas:
– Navy pants with a lavender top and burnt sienna heels
– A navy suit with lavender tie and brick red pocket square
– A navy dress with lavender jewelry and peach heels
This creates a more complex but still harmonious color scheme than just navy and lavender alone.
Adding Accent Colors
For a simple way to make navy and lavender pop, add in a bright accent color. Opt for a vivid hue like emerald, turquoise, magenta, or coral in small touches like a scarf or handbag.
For example, pair a navy dress with lavender shoes and a bright coral clutch. Or try a lavender skirt with navy heels and a turquoise necklace. The bold accent color energizes the look.
Trying Navy and Lavender Prints
When using prints to match these colors, choose patterns in the same color family. Some examples include:
– A navy polka dot top with a lavender floral skirt
– A striped lavender shirt under a navy paisley blazer
– A navy floral dress with a solid lavender cardigan
Staying within the same color scheme makes the prints coordinate instead of compete. Anchor them with neutral solids.
Navy and Lavender Color Schemes
Here are some recommended color schemes for pairing navy and lavender effectively:
| Color Scheme | Example Combination |
|---|---|
| Monochromatic | Navy suit, medium purple shirt, lavender tie |
| Complementary | Lavender blouse, navy skirt, lavender heels |
| Analogous | Navy dress, periwinkle sweater, lavender clutch |
| Triadic | Lavender top, navy pants, yellow shoes |
| Split Complementary | Navy blazer, lavender shirt, peach heels |
Navy and Lavender Room Decor
These colors work beautifully in home decor too. Here are some tips for effectively decorating with navy and lavender:
– Paint walls navy and use lavender in soft furnishings like pillows, throws, curtains
– Choose a lavender sofa or armchair to pop against a navy blue wall
– Add lavender and navy throw pillows to a neutral couch or bed
– Use a lavender area rug to inject color into a navy-themed room
– Mix navy and lavender bedding, pillows, and accessories
– Add bright pops of yellow, white, or mint green for a springier vibe
– Layer in metallics like silver, gold, or copper to add glamour
Conclusion
In summary, navy and lavender can absolutely be matched successfully. While very different colors, their blue undertones unite them. Choosing complementary shades in the same saturation prevents clashing. Adding neutral basics helps anchor the pair.
Experiment with color schemes like monochromatic, analogous, and triadic. Don’t be afraid to incorporate patterns and accent colors too. With the right styling, navy and lavender complement each other elegantly – both in fashion and interior decor.
