Key Takeaway:
- Navy blue is a versatile color that goes well with many other colors, making it an ideal choice for fashion, home decor, and branding.
- Some of the best colors to pair with navy blue are white, gray, beige/camel, red, and pink, which offer a classic, muted, warm, bold, and feminine contrast to navy blue, respectively.
- However, some colors may clash with navy blue and undermine its benefits, such as bright or neon colors, dull or muted colors, colors with yellow or orange undertones, certain shades of purple, and brown or black colors that overpower navy blue’s depth. To avoid these clashes, it’s essential to consider color theory and psychology, color temperature and tone, and occasion and setting.
- Some styling tips for incorporating navy blue with other colors include using it as an anchor color with other neutrals, pairing it with pops of brighter colors for a playful look, balancing it with complementary shades on the color wheel, experimenting with different fabrics and patterns, and exploring trends and best practices in various fields.
Introducing navy blue as a color in focus
Photo Credits: colorscombo.com by Jesse Moore
Navy blue is a timeless color that exudes luxury and sophistication. With its versatility and elegance, it’s no surprise that it has become a color in focus.
When considering navy blue color combinations, it’s essential to choose the best colors to pair with navy blue. Navy blue color schemes can range from classic to modern, making it a go-to when trying to achieve a particular aesthetic. Elevate your space or wardrobe with navy blue by experimenting with complementary colors or adding pops of color for contrast. A pro tip is to use gold accents with navy blue for a touch of glam.
Colors that complement navy blue
Photo Credits: colorscombo.com by Willie Nelson
To locate the ideal accompaniment for your navy blue attire, comprehend which colors pair well with it. To assist you, we created a list of colors that look fabulous with navy blue. These include:
- white
- elegant gray
- beige or camel
- vivacious red
- and pink
- You can also go for a mustard hue, tropical orange, glamorous gold, or a cool silver.
White as a classic choice
White has been a traditional and iconic color choice for pairing with navy blue. Its classic elegance provides a timeless contrast and complements the rich depth of navy blue. The starkness of white also accentuates the clean and crisp nature of navy blue, providing a classic and stylish combination.
Incorporating white with navy blue can create a refreshing and modern look by pairing the two colors as solids or patterns. The versatility of both colors enables dressing up or down for various occasions, making it an essential pairing in every wardrobe.
Moreover, white can also highlight other colors when combined with navy blue in different patterns and fabrics. The brightness of white can add definition and edge while enhancing the style quotient.
As Coco Chanel famously said: “Women who wear black lead colorful lives.” Similarly, incorporating white-as-a-classic-choice adds life to any outfit- formal or informal.
Gray complements navy blue like a sophisticated wingman, ensuring it shines without stealing the spotlight.
Gray for a muted yet classy look
The color gray is a perfect complement to navy blue, creating a muted yet classy look. Gray is a neutral color that helps balance the intensity of navy blue, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Combining these two colors creates an understated elegance that transcends any trend or season.
Gray not only pairs well with navy blue but also with other colors such as white, black, pink, and green. By choosing different shades of gray, you can create different moods in your outfit. For instance, pairing light gray with navy blue gives off a relaxed vibe while dark gray adds sophistication to the mix.
Navy blue and gray are versatile enough to be worn on their own or paired with other colors. However, it’s essential to choose complementary shades when mixing and matching outfits. A pop of bright color or pattern can accentuate the subdued tone of navy blue and gray combination.
A true fact – According to Pantone’s 2021 Color of the Year announcement, Ultimate Gray and Illuminating Yellow are chosen as the colors that represent strength and positivity needed in uncertain times like this pandemic period.
Want to feel like you’re snuggled up in a warm blanket all day? Add some beige or camel to your navy blue ensemble for an earthy and cozy vibe.
Beige or camel for a warm and earthy feel
A warm and earthy feel can be achieved by pairing navy blue with softer neutral tones. A great option to accomplish this is by incorporating beige or camel into the color scheme. These hues bring out the natural richness of navy blue in a subtle and elegant way, creating an effortless look.
Beige or camel can be used as a base color in an outfit or as an accent to complement navy blue. They are classic and timeless choices that can enhance both casual and formal wear. The warmth of these colors contrasts beautifully with the coolness of navy blue, adding depth and interest to any outfit.
To elevate the combination further, try combining different fabrics and textures when pairing beige or camel with navy blue. For instance, cashmere sweaters, suede boots or bags, cotton shirts, silk scarves and linen jackets can provide versatility and visual appeal to your ensemble.
In addition to their visual appeal, beige or camel go well with navy blue because they are widely used in nature; rocks, sand dunes, tree trunks where forest meets sandy deserts – all these palettes compliment each other naturally. When worn together they create a serene yet sophisticated aesthetic that is perfect for any skin tone or occasion.
Why settle for boring neutrals when you can add a pop of passion with a splash of red?
Red for a bold and vibrant contrast
Pairing navy blue with red is an excellent combination that often brings a bold and vibrant contrast to any outfit. The intensity of red offers a unique pop of color that nicely compliments the depth of navy blue.
When combined, these two colors provide an eye-catching look that demands attention. In fashion, this combination creates a powerful and confident vibe.
To make it work, select navy blue as your base color, then add red in smaller doses through accessories or accent pieces like shoes or bags. Keeping the primary outfit neutral allows the right balance to be achieved.
Moreover, the pairing works for any season and can work with various patterns. For instance, polka dots or stripes comprising these colors offer an excellent option for casual events.
A true fact is – according to research conducted by Design Wizard Creative Agency, red paired with navy blue produces high rates of engagement on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.
Add a touch of femininity to navy blue with a dash of pink.
Pink for a feminine touch
Navy blue pairs well with soft and pastel shades like pink for a feminine touch. The muted quality of navy blue makes it an ideal backdrop to showcase brighter, more vivid hues. Pink has a delicate yet assertive quality and can add a playful touch to an outfit with navy blue.
Additionally, styling this color combination using fabrics such as lace or silk can add elegance and femininity. Pastel pink accessories such as a clutch or heels can also enhance the overall feminine appeal.
Pro Tip: Pink and navy blue is a versatile combination that works well for both casual and formal occasions. Experiment with different shades of pink to find the perfect pairing for your outfit.
When it comes to adding a pop of color, mustard is the condiment of choice for navy blue.
Mustard for a pop of color
Mustard as an Accent to Navy Blue
Adding a pop of color to navy blue can make it stand out even more. Mustard yellow is one such hue that complements the depth of navy blue. Here are three ways mustard can be used:
- Pairing navy blue pants or skirts with a mustard blouse or sweater creates a balanced and sophisticated look.
- A mustard scarf or accessories like earrings, bracelets, or shoes worn with a navy blue dress add just the right amount of color to an outfit.
- Mustard-colored outerwear like coats and jackets paired with navy blue jeans add dimension and texture.
When using mustard for a pop of color, it’s important not to go overboard. Too much yellow can overpower navy blue, so it’s best to keep the balance in mind.
Unique Details About Mustard and Navy Blue
Another way to use mustard as an accent to navy blue is by incorporating patterns. A stripe or plaid shirt that has both colors can pull together a combination perfectly. Additionally, adding shades of red and green via accessories can help build up interest in your ensemble.
According to Pantone’s Fall/Winter 2021 Color Report, both Navy Peony (a deep navy) and Harvest Gold (a bright yellow) are in this year’s lineup of trendiest colors fashion-wise.
Why settle for a boring beach when you can bring a tropical paradise to your wardrobe with an orange-navy blue combo?
Orange for a tropical vibe
Orange is a vibrant color that brings a tropical vibe when paired with navy blue. The bright and warm hue of orange complements the deep and rich tone of navy blue, creating a striking yet harmonious combination.
Navy blue creates the perfect backdrop for orange to shine without overpowering it. When wearing navy blue as the dominant color, adding a pop of orange through accessories like a statement necklace or handbag can elevate any outfit and give it an unexpected twist.
To create a bold, tropical-inspired look, one can mix and match different shades of orange with navy blue. A darker shade of orange like burnt sienna works well with navy blue for a sophisticated touch, while brighter shades like tangerine or coral offer a playful contrast.
Incorporating patterns such as floral prints or stripes that feature both colors can also add interest and depth to any outfit.
According to InStyle.com, “The pairing of classic navy with zesty tones of orange conjures up thoughts of sun-drenched days by the beach.” Therefore, trying this color combination in vacation outfits could make style statements on holidays.
Navy blue and gold – a pairing so glamorous, even Beyoncé would approve.
Gold for a glamorous pairing
A luxurious and high-end color, gold is a perfect match for navy blue. The pairing of these two colors creates a sophisticated and glamorous look that is perfect for formal events and occasions. When combined with navy blue, the reflective nature of gold gives an attractive shine accentuating its glamour. Besides, adding to its beauty, golden accessories such as wallets, watches or jewelry can also complement any navy blue outfit.
To complement the glamor of gold when paired with navy blue, it is helpful to know where and when to use this combination appropriately. This pairing works best for nighttime events with dim lighting and can be worn by men or women to complement their respective attire. For men’s wear, gold cufflinks serve as an eye-catching accent while ladies can wear shimmering pieces of jewelry like necklaces or earrings.
Additionally, to make this combination stand out more effectively, wearing textured fabrics like corduroy or velvet escalate a texture contrast between the colors making them pop even more. On the other hand, it is not recommended to pair these colors with too much leather or denim as they may undervalue the colorfulness of golden glitter against navy blue.
The glamourous combination of gold and navy blue can add sparkle and elegance to any ensemble in distinguishing ways for anyone daring enough to explore it further. Choose Gold! Pairing navy blue with silver is like adding a touch of moonlight to your outfit.
Silver for a cool and modern look
Pairing navy blue with silver is a great choice for achieving a cool and modern look. Silver adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit, making it an excellent option for dressier occasions. This color combination works particularly well with metallic materials like silk or satin, adding shine and texture to the ensemble. Additionally, silver jewelry or accessories like belts or shoes can complement navy blue outfits exceptionally well.
For a more subtle pairing, try incorporating silver accents into navy blue clothing or patterns like stripes or plaids. This can add interest and depth to an otherwise simple outfit. Silver can also be used as a neutral color to balance out brighter colors when paired with navy blue.
Pro Tip: When using silver as an accessory, consider the finish of the metal. Brushed or matte finishes can create a more subdued look, while shiny finishes add more sparkle and glamour. Choose the appropriate finish based on the occasion and personal style preferences for the perfect navy blue and silver combination.
Pairing navy blue with green creates a harmonious blend of land and sea, perfect for nature lovers.
Colors that clash with navy blue
Photo Credits: colorscombo.com by Brandon Allen
To choose ideal colors with navy blue, you must know the importance of color theory, psychology, perception, symbolism and contrast.
In this section, we look at the colors that don’t go with navy blue. These include:
- Bright neon shades which may be too strong
- Muted or dull colors which lack contrast
- Yellow or orange hues which clash with blue
- Dark brown or black colors which overpower navy blue’s depth
- Shades of purple which don’t match
Bright or neon colors that overpower navy blue
When it comes to pairing colors with navy blue, there are certain shades that should be avoided. In particular, bright or neon colors that overpower navy blue can create a jarring effect that is not visually appealing. These bold hues can take away from the depth and richness of navy blue, diminishing its effect as a focal point.
- Neon shades of pink or green can clash with navy blue.
- Bright yellow or orange undertones may overpower and diminish the impact of navy blue.
- Vivid purples can also create an unbalanced combination when paired with navy blue.
- Electric shades of blue or green can overwhelm the depth and tone of navy blue.
- Hot pink or bright red may produce an overly striking appearance when combined with navy blue.
- Lime or neon green may cause a visual disconnect with the deeper hue of navy blue.
It’s important to consider the balance between bold and muted colors when choosing a color scheme. Pairing too many bright colors with navy blue will create an overwhelming effect that distracts from the beauty of this classic color.
Instead, opt for complementary shades on the color wheel and incorporate neutral colors to achieve a more balanced look. Subtle pops of color such as mustard or pale pink go well with navy blue without causing visual chaos.
Experimenting with different patterns and textures in these colors can also add depth and interest to your outfit. By avoiding bright or neon shades that overpower navy blue, you can create a harmonious and sophisticated look that showcases this timeless hue.
Why settle for a lackluster combo when you can add some pizzazz to navy blue?
Muted or dull colors that create a lack of contrast
Colors that are muted or dull can often dilute the impact of navy blue and create a lack of contrast. These colors have low saturation and brightness levels, resulting in a muted tone that may not stand out when paired with navy blue. Examples of such muted or dull colors include beige, tan, taupe, ash grey and light peach.
While these colors may work well as accent pieces or for a subtle look, it is important to ensure the right combination to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result. It is best to avoid pairing colored items with muted or dull hues that may overpower navy blue.
The key is to experiment with different shades and hues on the color spectrum to find the perfect balance between colors that complement each other while also providing enough contrast. Failure to do so could lead to muddled aesthetics or ruin an entire outfit.
To avoid a mismatched look, keep in mind your intended style, including texture and pattern matching. When working with navy blue and muted shades, avoid similar-looking materials such as suede and velvet as they will make it more difficult for contrasting elements to standout.
By keeping these subtle factors in mind when selecting clothing items that incorporate navy blue into the mix of other hues, you’ll be able to create effortlessly classic styles for any occasion- from casual brunches to upscale events!
Yellow and orange may be sunny and bright, but they’re not exactly besties with navy blue.
Yellow or orange undertones that clash with blue
Colors with yellow or orange undertones can clash with navy blue due to their warm and contrasting nature. These colors may create a lack of harmony and balance when paired with cool and deep navy blue, leading to an overwhelming effect. It is recommended to choose cooler shades of yellow or orange that match well with navy blue instead of clashing. An example of such a color is mustard, which adds warmth and depth while still maintaining the balance between the two colors.
To avoid clashing, one can also opt for pastel shades or muted tones that complement rather than overpower navy blue. For instance, peach can be an excellent option as it is less intense than its brighter counterpart, orange. A soft yellow tone like lemon will also work well as it has a calm and soothing effect when paired with navy blue.
When experimenting with bright colors, use them minimally as accents rather than overwhelming the base color completely. For instance, combining small pops of orange in accessories like earrings or shoes can create an interesting contrast while keeping the balance intact.
The choice of fabric also matters when pairing different colors together. When it comes to incorporating yellow or orange shades, choosing fabrics that have a similar texture to navy blue can help them blend seamlessly without jarring the eye.
Brown and black may be chic, but they’ll drown out navy blue’s beauty like a sinking ship.
Brown or black that overpower navy blue’s depth
Pairing navy blue with brown or black can create a sophisticated and elegant look. However, it is essential to note that brown or black shades that overpower navy blue’s depth can result in an unappealing look.
- Wearing a deep, dark brown or black jacket over a navy blue dress can make the outfit appear dull and flat.
- Pairing navy blue pants with black shoes creates an overwhelming effect and reduces the depth of the navy blue hue.
- A complete head-to-toe outfit in these colors lacks contrast and does not highlight the beauty of either color.
- Selecting light tan or beige instead of heavy brown tones can create the necessary contrast and balance when paired with navy blue.
Navy blue’s versatility allows for various options to pair, but it is crucial to avoid using shades of brown or black that overpower its depth while selecting garments and accessories.
To elevate your style, consider pairing navy blue with lighter shades of browns or earthy tones for a refined and classy look. Avoid picking excessively dark shades as this may cause navy blue to appear washed out.
Ensure you choose complementing colors that add contrast without affecting navy blue’s beauty when pairing it with different hues.
Are you bored with the same old styling? Mix things up by incorporating unusual fabric textures like denim, silk, wool, or patterns like plaid or stripes.
Don’t let the fear of missing out on unique ensembles hold you back from experimenting with new color combinations. So go ahead and add some elegance to your attire by experimenting with new combinations that complement rather than overpower each other’s shade depth.
Purple and navy might sound like a royal combination, but certain shades will leave you feeling more like Barney than the Queen.
Certain shades of purple that clash with navy blue
Purple is a vibrant color that can elevate an outfit when paired with the right colors. However, certain shades of purple clash with navy blue, creating an unattractive combination.
- Dark purples like plum and eggplant clash with navy blue as they have too much depth and overtake the subtlety of navy blue.
- Bright purples like lavender and lilac create a jarring effect on navy blue, as their lightness contrasts starkly with navy’s depth.
- Brownish purples like mauve and taupe look dull next to navy blue and take away from the richness of navy’s hue.
- Reddish purples like magenta create an unbalanced contrast next to navy as they contain too much pink undertone that clashes against cool-toned blues.
- Yellowish purples such as grapefruit or chartreuse don’t flatter navy blue, adding dullness to the color scheme instead of complementing it.
It’s worth noting that not all shades of purple will clash with navy blue. As purple contains multiple variations, some shades such as lighter lilacs or brighter violets can blend harmoniously together with this muted blue.
To avoid clashing outfit combinations, try experimenting with complementary colors such as pastel pinks or dusty rose tones to balance out the depth in your wardrobe choice.
Incorporating texture may also help reduce any unwanted harshness when combing these two colors together. For example, accessorizing with purple jewelry or using a patterned scarf can help bring some uniformity between both colors. Overall, mixing and matching colors takes trial-and-error experimentation but following some guidelines can lead you towards getting the desired results.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match: navy blue is the perfect canvas for endless color combinations and outfit possibilities.
Styling tips for incorporating navy blue with other colors
Photo Credits: colorscombo.com by Scott Perez
Incorporate navy blue with other colors? Explore these styling tips! Need ideas for a navy blue outfit or bridesmaid dress colors? Understand color schemes that work with navy blue.
- Anchor it with neutrals.
- Pops of brighter colors, for a playful look.
- Balance with complementary colors.
- Consider the occasion and setting.
- Experiment with fabrics and patterns.
- Find the best pairing!
Using navy blue as an anchor color with other neutrals
When looking to incorporate navy blue into an outfit, using it as an anchor color with other neutrals is a great option. Neutrals such as white, black, beige and gray compliment navy blue well as they provide a subtle background for the boldness of the navy blue to pop. Using different textures and fabrics of these neutrals adds depth to the outfit while keeping the overall look simple and sophisticated.
To make this style work, start with a base of neutral pieces such as a white t-shirt or gray pants and add in navy blue accessories like shoes or a handbag. A navy blue blazer works well over a neutral-colored dress or blouse too. This pairing creates an elongating effect, making you appear taller than you are.
To further enhance this combination, experiment with different fabrics and patterns, such as adding in stripes or polka dots on your anchor pieces or even lace detailing.
Incorporating navy blue as an anchor color with other neutrals is perfect for more formal environments where you need to look professional yet stylish without compromising comfort. It’s also great if you’re unsure how to wear bold colors where it provides an opportunity for you to carry vibrant blues without going too far out of your comfort zone.
According to Vogue UK’s fashion writer Ellie Pithers, “Navy blurs the line between casual dilution and smart conventionality” making it one of the most versatile colors out there when paired correctly.
Add a pop of color to navy blue and suddenly you’re the life of the party, just like that one friend who always brings the good snacks.
Pairing navy blue with pops of brighter colors for a playful look
Navy blue is a versatile color that can be brought to life with pops of vibrant shades, perfect for creating a playful look. By incorporating bright hues such as bold pinks, sunny yellows, and timeless reds, navy blue can take on a new personality and become the highlight of any outfit or setting. These combinations work well for casual events or creative environments where fashion statements are welcome.
To elevate the playfulness of navy blue, pairing it with pops of brighter colors is an excellent option. By bringing in splashes of different colors throughout the outfit or accessory choices, the final look becomes visually interesting. This combination often creates a pop art style suitable for those seeking something that pushes boundaries or wants to stand out from the crowd.
Choosing the right colors to complement navy blue can be overwhelming and confusing. To make it easier, consider using complementary hues like bright pink and electric blue or contrasting shades like fiery orange and deep purple. Incorporating patterns such as stripes or polka dots will also add to the fun vibe while maintaining a chic appearance.
For added flair, use color-blocking techniques by layering tops or dresses in brighter shades over navy blue bottoms like trousers or jeans. Experiment with colorful accessories such as bold jewelry pieces in yellow and green tones layered on top of neutral-colored clothing items.
Find your balanced match on the color wheel, because navy blue is no longer feeling blue.
Balancing navy blue with complementary shades on the color wheel
To balance navy blue with complementary shades, look for colors that lie opposite on the color wheel. These include warm oranges or yellows and cool greens or purples. Pairing these tones with navy blue creates a harmonious and visually appealing contrast.
When choosing complementary colors, consider their intensity as well. A highly saturated tone can overpower navy blue, while a less vivid shade can blend too much with it. Finding the right balance of color is important for an eye-catching and effective pairing.
Experimenting with different shades and textures can also help achieve the perfect balance. Mixing patterns, fabrics, and finishes can add depth and interest to the overall look.
Don’t miss out on the potential of navy blue by neglecting its ability to pair beautifully with complementary colors on the color wheel. Play around with different combinations until finding one that strikes the perfect balance of color harmony and visual appeal.
Match your navy blues to the occasion, because you don’t want to be the odd one out at a formal event.
Consider the occasion and setting for the appropriate color combination
Choosing the right color combination is crucial when incorporating navy blue into a particular occasion and setting. The context plays a significant role in determining the most suitable pairings.
For instance, professional settings call for neutral colors such as white or gray to create a polished and sophisticated look. On the other hand, more casual gatherings or events can incorporate bolder contrasting shades like red or orange to add vibrancy and spunk.
When selecting colors to complement navy blue, consider factors such as the time of day, location, occasion, dress code and personal preferences. The setting will dictate which shades blend with navy blue better.
Pro Tip: Create mood boards or experiment with different combinations to determine which pairing suits the event’s ambiance best.
Mixing prints and textures is like a blind date – sometimes it works out, and sometimes it’s a disaster.
Experiment with different fabrics and patterns to find the best pairing
Pairing navy blue with different colors can be a challenging task. However, by experimenting with various fabrics and patterns, you can find the best pairing to create a unique look that stands out.
To experiment with different fabrics and patterns to find the best pairing, follow these three steps:
- Start by selecting one dominant fabric or pattern. This could be your navy blue piece or any other bright or colorful item that you want to pair it with.
- Next, choose complementary fabrics and patterns that will showcase the dominant piece without overshadowing it. Consider patterns such as stripes or polka dots in a lighter hue or a solid-colored fabric in a neutral shade like beige or grey.
- The final step is to balance and layer those pieces together. The dominant piece should stand out amongst the supporting items while adding depth and texture to the overall look. Remember to keep a restrained color palette that maintains harmony between each item.
For example, consider pairing navy blue jeans with a white cotton shirt having minimal black polka dots scattered over it. Adding brown leather accessories like shoes and handbags can complement it well.
One pro tip for experimenting with different fabrics and patterns is to consider your skin tone when choosing colors for the combination. Use shades that complement your skin tone instead of clashing with it.
Five Facts About What Color Goes Well With Navy Blue:
- ✅ Cream or white hues complement navy blue for a classic and sophisticated look. (Source: Real Simple)
- ✅ Bright, bold colors like red, yellow, and pink add a pop of color and contrast to navy blue. (Source: Pantone)
- ✅ Earthy tones like olive green and rust pair well with navy blue for a rustic and natural feel. (Source: The Spruce)
- ✅ Metallics, such as gold and silver, provide a glam and luxurious touch when combined with navy blue. (Source: House Beautiful)
- ✅ Pastel shades, such as blush, mint green, and lavender, create a soft and feminine vibe when paired with navy blue. (Source: Elle Decor)
FAQs about What Color Goes Well With Navy Blue
What color goes well with navy blue?
Navy blue is a very versatile color that can be paired with a variety of other colors. Some of the best color combinations with navy blue include:
- White: A classic and clean combination, white and navy blue are great for a nautical or preppy look.
- Red: Navy blue and red create a bold and patriotic look that is perfect for the Fourth of July or other patriotic holidays.
- Pink: For a softer and more feminine look, navy blue can be paired with shades of pink, from blush to fuchsia.
- Beige or Camel: For a chic and sophisticated look, navy blue can be paired with neutral beige or camel tones.
- Gold: A metallic accent like gold can add a touch of glamour to navy blue.
- Mint Green: For a fresh and bright look, navy blue can be paired with mint green for a fun take on the classic color combination.