When we think about summer outfits, navy blue pieces are definitely part of the mix. A navy and white striped sweater is basically a beachside staple, while a dress in the same shade is a lighter, less serious version of an LBD. While this color is a key part of our year-round wardrobe — we love it in the fall, winter, and spring, too — we still encounter the occasional fashion dilemma. Choosing which colors to go with navy blue might feel tricky at times, but the solution is rather simple: navy looks great with everything.
After taking a peek at some street style inspiration, we've realized this color is probably the most versatile … ever. Red, pink, beige, black — mysteriously, it works with them all. Plus, after things cool off and we're back to bundling up, there will be no shortage of ways to wear it.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Navy Blue and White
Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesIt's one of the most popular pairings out there — crisp, clean, and super sleek.
Why Not Try … A white dress with a structured navy blazer, or a white button-down with a navy midi skirt.
Navy Blue and Beige
Hanna Lassen/Getty ImagesTwo neutrals turn show-stopping when worn together. Plus, you can amp up your look with vibrant footwear or accessories.
Why Not Try … A beige jacket layered over a navy jumpsuit, complete with green heels. Or wear a navy sweater with khaki pants and a printed scarf.
Navy Blue and Black
Christian Vierig/Getty ImagesIt was once considered a faux pas, but that's no longer the case. Instead, these colors create a striking and unexpected combination.
Why Not Try … An oversized navy shirt with black bike shorts, or a black tank dress layered over a long-sleeved, navy turtleneck.
Navy Blue and Grey
Melodie Jeng/Getty ImagesThis duo always looks sharp, whether you're going casual or dressing up for the office. We recommend sticking with a lighter shade of grey to provide some contrast.
Why Not Try … Breaking up your grey sweats with a navy jacket, or wear a navy vest with grey slacks.
Navy Blue and Green
Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesNavy and green give us preppy vibes, likely because many plaid prints include the same combination.
Why Not Try … A forest green suit with a navy shirt, or navy pants with something lime on top.
Navy Blue and Brown
Christian Vierig/Getty ImagesDon't forget the power of these two basic colors. Should you be stumped when it comes to shoe choice, brown is always a winner with a navy outfit.
Why Not Try … A navy maxi with the addition of a brown bag or boots.
Navy Blue and Red
Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesWhile slightly patriotic and nautical, a little bit of red will somehow make blues seem even brighter.
Why Not Try … A red jacket over a navy set, or a red dress with a navy hat.
Navy Blue and Yellow
Christian Vierig/Getty ImagesYellow tends to pop when styled with almost any color, but against a darker shade, it'll really wow.
Why Not Try … A navy dress and yellow heels, or a navy sweatshirt with cropped yellow pants.
Navy Blue and Pink
Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesReach for something vibrant, such as bubblegum pink pants, which will really shine against neutral wardrobe staples.
Why Not Try … A navy blazer and flared pink pants, or a navy cardigan over a pink dress.
Navy Blue and Orange
Christian Vierig/Getty ImageTechnically, orange is the opposite of blue on the color wheel, so when styled together, they make quite the impact.
Why Not Try … An orange turtleneck under a loose navy dress, or orange shorts with a navy tank top.
Navy Blue and Baby Blue
Christian Vierig/Getty ImagesThe contrast between two shades of blue will help your stand out in the crowd, and this particular outfit proves that navy and metallics are also cool and eye-catching.
Why Not Try … A navy jacket over a slinky baby blue dress, completed with silver boots. Or go with a navy suit accented with a baby blue bag.
Navy Blue and Navy Blue
Edward Berthelot/Getty ImagesWhen all else fails, monochromatic outfits are an easy yet fashion-forward choice.
Why Not Try … A navy coat over navy co-ords, or a navy tee with a navy mini skirt.