Navy blue is a versatile and timeless color that can be paired with a variety of different colors and prints. When selecting an outfit, it is important to consider the color wheel and which shades will complement each other. Certain colors like reds, greens, oranges and purples stand out against navy blue, while more muted and neutral tones like grays, taupes and creams will let the navy be the star. The occasion is also an important factor, as bolder colors may be better for a night out while subtle shades work for the office. With so many options, what is truly the best color to wear with a navy blue dress?
Vibrant Colors that Pop Against Navy
If you want your outfit to make a statement, bright and vibrant colors contrast beautifully against navy blue. Reds, oranges, pinks, greens and purples all stand out and grab attention when paired with navy. For a bold daytime look, try a navy dress with a cherry red blazer or bright orange heels. For evening, an emerald green wrap dress or deep purple heels can take a navy cocktail dress from boring to beautiful. Just be aware that lighter tints of these colors may overwhelm the navy, so opt for deeper, jewel tones.
Neutrals for a Classic, Timeless Look
While vibrant shades make navy pop, neutral colors like black, white, gray, tan and cream allow the navy blue to shine while providing a subtle complement. A navy sheath dress with cream pumps is elegant and sophisticated, perfect for both work and formal occasions. Pairing navy and black together creates a nautical feel that is always in style. And beige or tan shoes, purses and jackets add warmth against the cool blue tone. Neutrals keep the focus on a beautiful navy garment while giving it some extra versatility.
Metallic Shoes, Bags and Jewelry as Accents
Metallics like gold, silver, rose gold and bronze work beautifully as accent pieces to dress up a navy outfit. A navy dress with nude heels looks lovely on its own, but strappy gold sandals can take it to a glamorous evening affair. A simple tan tote is functional, but a metallic bag in silver, pewter or bronze adds interest. Delicate gold, silver or rose gold jewelry polishes off the look. Keep the metallic accents minimal, as too much can overpower the navy. A metallic clutch, heels and earrings are plenty.
Earth Tones for Natural Appeal
Earth tones derived from nature such as khaki, olive green, taupe, brown and terracotta blend seamlessly with navy blue. A khaki trench coat dresses up a casual navy shift dress for work. Olive green flats paired with a navy blouse and pants exude natural elegance. Soft browns from a handbag and belt ground the navy in organic warmth. Earth tones dress up or down beautifully with navy and always look pulled together.
Patterns and Prints for Interest
While solids flatter navy blue, patterns and prints can add extra dimension and interest to an outfit. Small polka dots, classic stripes, floral prints and checkerboard motifs contrast nicely and keep navy from looking flat. When mixing patterns like stripes and florals, make sure the navy is the connecting theme and keep the patterns small in scale. Anchor the patterns with solid colored accessories to avoid looking too busy. Scale and color are key when combining navy with prints.
Conclusion
In summary, the best colors to pair with navy blue depend on the occasion and desired look. Vibrant reds, greens and purples contrast strongly for making a statement. Neutrals let the navy shine while providing flexibility. Metallics add glamorous sparkle as accents. Earth tones offer a natural and organic vibe. And prints inject interest when combined thoughtfully. With so many options, you can’t go wrong finding the perfect color match for your navy blue dress.
| Color | Occasion | Level of Contrast |
|---|---|---|
| Bright jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, fuchsia | Night out, parties, events | High contrast |
| Neutrals like black, white, tan, cream | Work, formal events, daytime | Low contrast |
| Metallic accents like gold, silver, bronze | Daytime or nighttime | Medium contrast |
| Earth tones like olive, brown, khaki | Daytime, casual | Low contrast |
| Patterns and prints like polka dots, florals | Casual daytime | Medium contrast |
