For me, navy is one of the most difficult colors to style. Although I am an avid lover of black items and friends lovingly point out that the majority of my wardrobe is black, I always struggle to find pieces that go with this shade. While black seems to go with everything, navy feels like its more difficult sibling; it’s a bit more limited in what it will or won’t go with. That being said, this shade is undoubtedly chic and can look very striking and elegant when styled well.
Shoes can be the trickiest thing to pair with a navy outfit, but a long scroll through Instagram proves I’ve overcomplicated the issue. I’ve discovered that navy pairs best with classic, neutral hues. Whites, beiges, and browns all maintain the understated, elegant vibe that navy exudes, while also being incredibly versatile hues that work beautifully with most other colors in your wardrobe.
Perhaps the most controversial combination (at least in my opinion) is navy and black. For years I have argued that the two should never be combined; that the tones are too close and don’t look good together. But I was wrong, dear readers. Sorry. People far more stylish than I am have proven that, when you get the right tones together, the two are, in fact, the perfect combo. My advice? Pair a light navy shade with shiny black patent leather shoes and you’ll look like a true fashion guru.
If you’re looking to wear your favorite navy shoes in more ways, keep scrolling to see our picks for the best shoe colors to go with navy shoes, plus some great outfit inspiration to help you out.
1. Black
Style Notes: This look has me dreaming of fall. I love how Chrissy went all-in on the navy and black combo and tied it all together with other black accessories. Genius.
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V-cut knit jumper
I love the bold V-neck detail.
Cos
Wide-leg tailored wool trousers
These can be styled in a variety of ways.
reform
Agathea chunky loafers
The chunky sole and glossy black finish are very nice.
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Ribbed cotton socks, set of 2
Follow Chrissy’s example and break up your black and navy look with white ribbed socks.
Demelie
Greater Tokyo
2. White
Style Notes: Classic, clean, and highly effective, vibrant white accents are an ideal match for navy pieces. You could also opt for white sandals or heels, but white sneakers will keep the look fresh and understated.
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Jigsaw Puzzle
Cotton blend knit skirt
This skirt can be worn for work or on the weekend.
The classic dad sneaker isn’t going anywhere.
mango
Short Handle Shoulder Bag
No one would believe this is a high street item.
3. Beige
Style Note: Neutral beige always looks classy and looks great paired with classier navy pieces.
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Cos
Tie-detail satin midi dress
How amazing is this dress?
Idea
Ink leather sandals
It’s so simple and chic, it goes with everything.
Mejuri
Dome Cuff Bracelet Silver
Bracelets are a big hit this season.
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Ostrich embossed tote bag
A truly gorgeous tote bag that will elevate any work outfit.
4. Brown
Style Notes: Rich brown hues pair well with navy. These complementary colors work in any season, but we especially love how Abi paired her breezy gingham dress with brown Birkenstocks.
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Rixo
Serafina – Paint Check Soft Blue
I love everything about this dress, from the silhouette to the print.
Birkenstock
Arizona Birko-Flor
whistle
Toia Mini Straw Tote
Leather trim completes this trendy raffia tote bag.
5. Red
Style Notes: Technically, dark blue jeans are essentially navy, but this look would work just as well with tailored navy trousers. If you want to add a bit of color, red is hands-down the best option. It’s timeless, chic, and super cool.
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Fitted Tank Top
If you don’t already have a white tank, now is your chance to get one.
Agold
+ Net Sustain 90s Pinch Waist Long High Rise Straight Leg Organic Jeans
These are my personal favorite jeans.
Manolo Blahnik
Scolobi 90 satin-trimmed flocked mesh sandals
Perfect finish.
