What Colour Shirts Go with Navy Suits?
When it comes to dressing for business, one of the most common questions people ask is what colour shirt to wear with a navy suit. The answer may seem straightforward, but it’s surprisingly nuanced. In this article, we’ll explore the different options and provide guidelines on how to choose the perfect shirt to complement your navy suit.
Basic Principles
Before we dive into specific shirt colours, it’s essential to understand the basic principles of colour harmony. Navy blue is a dark, cool colour, which means it can sometimes clash with bright, warm colours. To create a harmonious look, we need to find colours that complement or contrast with navy blue in a way that creates visual interest.
Here are some key principles to keep in mind:
- Monochromatic: Different shades of the same colour can create a cohesive look. For example, navy blue, light blue, and white can work together to create a harmonious palette.
- Analogous: Colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel can create a smooth, natural transition. For navy blue, analogous colours would be blue-green, blue-violet, and pink.
- Complementary: Colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel can create contrast and visual interest. For navy blue, complementary colours would be orange, yellow, and red.
Shirt Colour Options
Now that we’ve established the basic principles, let’s explore the different shirt colour options that go well with navy suits:
Contents
**White or Light-Coloured Shirts**
- White: A classic choice, white shirts are a timeless option for navy suits. They provide a crisp, clean look that’s perfect for formal events.
- Light Blue: A light blue shirt can add a touch of elegance to a navy suit. It’s an excellent choice for business meetings or presentations.
- Pastel Colours: Soft pastel colours like pale pink, baby blue, or mint green can add a touch of personality to a navy suit.
**Blues and Greens**
- Light Blue: A slightly darker light blue shirt can create a subtle contrast with navy blue.
- Sky Blue: A medium-toned sky blue shirt can add a pop of colour to a navy suit.
- Olive Green: A muted olive green shirt can create a striking contrast with navy blue. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor events or work-related activities.
**Neutrals**
- Beige or Linen: A beige or linen shirt can add warmth to a navy suit while creating a harmonious contrast.
- Grey: A light or dark grey shirt can provide a sleek, modern look with navy blue.
**Bolder Options**
- Red: A bright red shirt can create a bold, attention-grabbing look with navy blue. It’s an excellent choice for making a statement or standing out in a crowd.
- Corals and Oranges: Warm, earthy tones like coral or orange can add a touch of sophistication to a navy suit.
- Deep Greens: A deep green shirt can create a rich, contrasted look with navy blue.
Tips and Considerations
When choosing a shirt to wear with a navy suit, keep the following tips in mind:
- Consider the event: Formal events like black-tie events or business meetings may require a white or light-coloured shirt, while more casual events like outdoor gatherings or family functions may allow for bolder options.
- Think about the occasion: If you’re attending a formal event, a shirt with a subtle pattern like stripes or checks can add texture and interest. For more casual events, a plain shirt may be preferred.
- Pay attention to the suit’s quality: A high-quality navy suit can withstand bold colours and patterns, while a lower-quality suit may clash with bright colours.
- Experiment with different shirts: Don’t be afraid to try out different shirts with your navy suit. You may be surprised at how a bold colour can elevate your look.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shirt to wear with a navy suit can be challenging, but by understanding the basic principles of colour harmony and exploring different options, you can create a harmonious and stylish look. Whether you opt for classic white, bold red, or subtle blue, remember to consider the event, occasion, and quality of your suit when making your choice. With practice and experimentation, you’ll become a pro at pairing the perfect shirt with your navy suit.
