What Colors Go with Navy Blue Clothing?
Navy blue is a classic and versatile color that can be paired with a wide range of hues to create different looks and outfits. The key to making navy blue work is to balance it with colors that complement its deep, dark tone without overpowering it. Here, we’ll explore the different colors that go well with navy blue clothing.
General Guidelines
Before we dive into specific color combinations, here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:
- Navy blue pairs well with a variety of colors, including neutrals, earth tones, brights, and pastels.
- Aim for contrasting colors that have a reasonable level of chroma, or color strength, to create visual interest.
- Avoid pairing navy blue with colors that have a similar hue or chroma to create a sense of monotony.
- White and very light colors, such as beige or gray, work well as contrasts to the dark navy blue.
Neutral Colors
Neutral colors are a safe bet when pairing with navy blue clothing. Here are some of the most compatible neutral shades:
- White: A classic and timeless choice, white works well for a crisp and clean look.
- Beige: A neutral beige works well to break up the darkness of navy blue without overpowering it.
- Light gray: Gray is a great neutral complement to navy blue, offering a subtle yet sophisticated touch.
- Taupe: A taupe-hued sweater or scarf adds warmth and earthiness to a navy blue outfit.
- Light brown: A light brown belt, bag, or shoes creates a nice harmony with navy blue.
| Neutral Color | Why It Works | Style Tip |
|---|---|---|
| White | Crisp and clean, creates visual contrast | White shirt under a navy blazer, white sneakers with navy shorts |
| Beige | Breaks up darkness, adds warmth | Beige cardigan with navy sweaters, beige scarf with navy coat |
| Light gray | Soothes, adds texture | Gray sweater with navy pants, gray boots with navy dresses |
| Taupe | Adds earthy warmth | Taupe hat with navy coat, taupe earrings with navy scarf |
| Light brown | Creates contrast, adds casual touch | Light brown shoes with navy pants, light brown bag with navy outfits |
Earth Tones
Earthy colors that complement the deep blue tones of navy blue include:
- Olive: A popular choice for those who prefer a more outdoorsy vibe, olive tones work well with navy blue pants or trousers.
- Terracotta: Terracotta shades, either in small doses or in bold outfits, create a warm contrast with navy blue.
- Cork: The earthy brown tones of cork work nicely with the dark blue undertones of navy blue.
| Earth Tone | Why It Works | Style Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Olive | Versatile, neutral, pairs well with white shirts | Olive pants with white shirt and navy blazer, olive sweater with white pants and navy boots |
| Terracotta | Warm and inviting, breaks up cold tones | Terracotta scarf with white shirt and navy blazer, terracotta jacket with light gray pants |
| Cork | Earthy, comforting, pairs with light whites | Cork wallet with light gray pants, cork phone case with dark navy outfits |
Brights and Pastels
Bolder hues can also add a striking contrast to navy blue outfits. Try the following bold and soft pastel pairs:
- Brights: Bright oranges, pinks, yellows, and reds pop against navy blue.
- Try pairing bright lip colors, handbags, or shoes to add a bold splash.
- Use accents like tie clips, bow ties, or scarves to avoid overwhelming the entire outfit.
- Soft pastels: Softer pastels like pale pinks, baby blues, and yellow-greens create softer, more subdued contrasts with navy blue.
| Color | Why It Works | Style Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Bright colors | Visual pop, playful, striking | Bright pink sunglasses with dark navy outfit, bright red handbag with light beige pants |
| Soft pastels | Whisper-quiet contrast, adding soft pop | Soft peach scarf with navy coat, pale baby blue sweater with white shirt and navy skirt |
Conclusion
From neutral classics to bold contrasts, pairing colors with navy blue has endless possibilities. By remembering to balance opposing hues with complementary colors that create harmony, you’ll be ready to rock various outfits to suit your unique style.
Remember these key tips:
- Experiment with contrasting colors to avoid monotony and create visual interest.
- Prioritize colors that have reasonable chroma and contrast against navy blue to create distinct looks.
- Embrace neutrals and neutral-toned garments to play it safe when pairing colors with navy blue.
- Add highlights with brightly colored accessories for a dramatic touch.
- And, most importantly, let your personal taste guide the way and be creative in your color palettes.
Now, unleash your sense of style, and navigate the world with confidence!
