If you asked most people whether they’d wear navy blue and black together, they’d likely say no. But for Parisians, it’s a different story. They tend to favor neutral tones like black, gray, brown, and navy blue. It’s puzzling why this pairing is considered a fashion faux pas by many, as when styled correctly, navy blue and black can look incredibly chic and sophisticated. Perhaps this is why Parisian women have embraced this combination for so long—they truly embody elegance and style. Scroll down to explore this intriguing color pairing; you might be surprised!
SOME STRIKING BLUE-BLACK OUTFITS
Here are some influential Parisians, including Inès de La Fressange and Caroline de Maigret, each showcasing their unique interpretations of navy blue and black.
Their images are frequently spotted on Pinterest, effortlessly blending these two colors. One of my all-time favorite style icons, Emmanuelle Alt, is particularly skilled at pairing navy and black, making it look timeless and sophisticated.
Like black, navy blue exudes power, intelligence, and confidence. Personally, I love wearing colors that evoke this feeling.
Interestingly, this color combination isn’t commonly embraced in the States, and I’m not quite sure why. Perhaps it stems from a longstanding “rule” suggesting that these two colors shouldn’t be worn together. However, European designers have been championing this duo for years. Since the shades are quite similar, it’s essential to let one color stand out when styling them together.
THREE SIMPLE RULES FOR WEARING NAVY BLUE AND BLACK TOGETHER
MAKE THE COLOR STANDOUT
No matter how you choose to combine navy blue and black, ensure they contrast enough to stand out from one another. Otherwise, you risk creating a black-on-black look. Personally, I tend to wear black on the bottom and navy on top when pairing the two. However, it’s equally stylish to opt for navy pants with a black top or sweater.
ADD A CONTRASTING COLOR
Add a pop of color to your navy and black ensemble with accessories like brown boots; the contrast creates a sharp and polished look. You can also incorporate white for a crisp appearance, such as pairing a classic navy blazer with a white tee and black jeans. This fall, embrace bold colors by trying something unexpected, like a navy silk top paired with green trousers.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
If you’re not accustomed to pairing navy blue and black, start with something simple, like a navy blue dress with black pumps.
Alternatively, try a black sweater with a navy blue scarf. One of my favorite combinations is a navy coat—like my beloved Sézane Johnson or Sézane James coat—worn with black jeans.
A popular French style involves the classic navy Breton top paired with black jeans, seamlessly blending the two colors.
Navy Blue and Black Outfit Ideas
CONCLUSION
Embracing the timeless elegance of navy and black together is a sophisticated choice that echoes the Parisian aesthetic. By understanding the nuances of these colors and their harmonious interplay, you can create outfits that are both chic and effortless. Whether you opt for a monochromatic look or experiment with complementary accents, the combination of navy and black offers endless possibilities for expressing your personal style.
