There are many ways to dress up a navy blue dress depending on the occasion. Navy blue is a versatile color that can be dressed up or down easily. Here are some tips for accessorizing and styling a navy blue dress.
Jewelry
Jewelry is an easy way to instantly dress up a navy blue dress. Here are some jewelry ideas:
- Gold jewelry – Gold tones pair beautifully with navy blue. Try a statement gold necklace, dangling earrings or a stack of gold bangles.
- Pearls – Classic white or cream pearls add an elegant touch to a navy dress. Pearl stud earrings, a strand pearl necklace or pearl bracelet.
- Statement necklace – A colorful statement necklace in coral, turquoise, red or other bright shades pops against the navy background.
- Sparkly jewelry – Navy blue is the perfect backdrop for jewelry with some sparkle. Crystals, rhinestones or diamonds add glamour.
Shoes
The right shoes can really take a navy dress from day to night. Consider these dressy shoe options:
- Heels – Opt for heels in metallic like gold or silver, or vibrant colors like red, pink or coral. Heels instantly make a dress look dressier.
- Wedges – Espadrilles or cork wedge sandals add height while still being comfortable.
- Ankle strap heels – This style is on trend and elongates the leg.
- Pointed toe heels – Whether stiletto or kitten heel, pointed toes create a sleek, polished look.
Clutch
Carrying a stylish clutch amps up the formality of any dress. For navy, look for clutches in these colors and materials:
- Metallic – Gold, silver, rose gold or metallic finish in colors like champagne or blush.
- Red – A vibrant red clutch makes a bold accent against navy.
- Animal print – A clutch with a leopard or snake skin pattern adds texture and interest.
- White – Crisp, clean white clutch creates contrast.
- Wood – Natural woven or wooden clutch for an organic look.
Layers
Layering pieces over a navy dress transforms the look. Consider these layering ideas:
- Blazer – A tailored blazer in a fabric like tweed or linen brings structure.
- Leather jacket – Slip on a moto or leather jacket for an edgy vibe.
- Cardigan – A long, draped open cardigan softens the look.
- Kimono – Flowy kimonos or duster jackets work for a boho chic style.
- Cape – Make a dramatic entrance in a cape over your navy dress.
Accessories
Fun accessories can add personality and polish to a navy dress. Ideas include:
- Statement belt – Cinch the waist with a bold, colorful belt.
- Scarf – Drape a silk scarf around the neckline or use as a headband.
- Hair pins – Decorative hair clips, barrettes or pins upgrade a simple hairstyle.
- Hats – Floppy sun hats for daytime or feathered fascinators for evening affairs.
- Tights – Colored tights or fishnets add flair to the legs.
Handbag
A chic handbag brings polish to any outfit. Handbag styles to try with a navy dress include:
- Structured satchel – Classic style in leather or suede.
- Hobo bag – Relaxed boho vibe in soft, slouchy materials.
- Crossbody bag – Hands-free and versatile in bright colors or metallics.
- Clutch – Elegant for evening in sequins, velvet or beading.
- Tote – Roomy and casual for daytime in canvas or woven materials.
Hairstyle
An elegant or eye-catching hairstyle takes a navy dress to the next level. Hairstyle ideas include:
- Sleek updo – Ballerina bun, French twist or slicked back ponytail.
- Big curls – Loose glamorous curls with volume.
- Braid – French braid, fishtail or floral braid.
- Half up style – Half pulled up with the rest cascading down.
- Headband – Placed in the hair or across the forehead.
Makeup
Makeup can make a big impact paired with a navy dress. Play up these features:
- Eyes – Smokey eye, winged liner or bold metallic shadow.
- Lips – Red, plum, berry or pink lipstick or gloss.
- Complexion – Luminous, highlighted skin.
- Cheeks – Swept blush in apricot, peach or berry shades.
- Brows – Groomed and defined brows framed with gel.
Patterns & Textures
Patterns and textures give variety when styling a navy dress. Options include:
- Lace – Romantic touch on overlays or trims.
- Floral print – Navy backgrounds allow colorful blooms to pop.
- Polka dots – Classic pattern in white or bright contrast colors.
- Stripes – Thin vertical stripes elongate the body.
- Embroidery – Metallic, floral or other decorative embroidery for ornamentation.
Occasion Styling Tips
Here are some navy dress styling tips for different occasions:
| Occasion | Styling Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Casual Daytime | Ballet flats, tote bag, pendant necklace, cardigan |
| Office | Low heels, blazer, satchel, pearl studs |
| Cocktail Party | Strappy heels, clutch, chandelier earrings, updo |
| Black Tie Wedding | Satin heels, sparkly jewelry, evening clutch, bold lip |
| Day Wedding | Wedges, flower crown, bracelet, natural makeup |
| Beach Vacation | Sandals, straw hat, sunglasses, beach tote |
Conclusion
Navy blue dresses offer great versatility. With the right mix of accessories, layers, footwear and beauty details, you can easily dress a navy dress up or down for any occasion. Use jewelry, shoes, bags, jackets and hair and makeup elements to create the perfect pulled-together look. With so many ways to style it, a navy dress is a wardrobe staple worth investing in.