In my opinion, navy is one of the most difficult colors to pair. As a loyal follower of black clothing – my friends would lovingly point out that it makes up the majority of my wardrobe – I’ve always struggled to find the right pieces to pair with this shade. While black seems to go with absolutely everything, navy seems to be its trickier sibling – a bit more specific in terms of what it will and won’t accept. That being said, the shade is undeniably chic and, when paired well, looks so impressive and elegant.
Shoes are by far the hardest thing for me to pair with navy pieces, but after scrolling through Instagram extensively, I think I’ve overcomplicated the issue. It turns out that it’s the classic, neutral shades that go best with navy. White, beige, brown, and more all retain the subtly elegant appeal that navy exudes, and are also super versatile shades that will also pair great with most other colors in your wardrobe.
Perhaps the most controversial combination (at least in my opinion) is navy blue and black. For years I insisted that the two colors should never come together as they are too similar in shades to look good together. Dear readers, I was wrong. I apologize. Far more style-conscious people than me have proven that these two colors are indeed the perfect combination as long as you use the right shades. My advice? Opt for lighter navy shades and shiny black patent shoes to really look like a fashion master.
If you, too, want to wear your favorite navy shoes more often, keep scrolling to see my picks of the best color shoes to go with them—and some great outfit inspiration to get you started.
1. Black
Style notes: This look makes me dream of fall. I love how Chrissy fully embraced the navy and black combo by using other black accessories to complete the whole ensemble. Awesome.
Shop the look:
& other stories
V-neck knitted sweater
I love the eye-catching V-neck detail.
COS
Tailored wide leg wool trousers
These can be styled in so many ways.
reformation
Chunky loafer “Agathea”
The chunky sole and shiny black finish are so good.
& other stories
2-pack ribbed cotton socks
Follow Chrissy’s example and break up the black and navy with white ribbed socks.
DeMellier
The Great Tokyo
2. White
Style notes: Classic, clean and oh-so-effective, a splash of crisp white pairs ideally with navy pieces. While you could opt for white sandals or heeled pumps, white sneakers give the look a fresh and understated feel.
Shop the look:
puzzle
Cotton blend knit skirt
The kind of skirt you can wear to work and on weekends.
The classic dad sneaker is not going away.
MANGO
Shoulder bag with short handle
No one would believe this is a high street piece.
3. Beige
Style notes: A neutral beige always looks very classy and is therefore a great combination option with your more elegant marine pieces.
Shop the look:
COS
Satin midi dress with tie detail
How stunning is this dress?
AEYDE
Leather sandals “Sumi”
So simple and chic, they go with everything.
Mejuri
Dome Cuff Bracelet Silver
Bracelets are the focus this season.
& other stories
Large tote bag with ostrich embossing
A truly beautiful tote bag that will enhance any work wardrobe.
4. Brown
Style notes: The rich, deep brown hues are perfect for pairing with navy blue. These complementary shades work for all seasons, but I especially love how Abi used brown Birkenstocks to complement her breezy gingham dress.
Shop the look:
RIXO
Seraphina – Painted check pattern in delicate blue
From the silhouette to the print, I love everything about this dress.
Birkenstock
Arizona Birch-Flor
Whistle
Toia mini straw tote bag
The leather trim gives this trendy raffia tote bag a truly unique look.
5. Red
Style notes: Technically, dark blue jeans are basically navy blue, but this look would work just as well if you swapped them out for tailored navy pants. Red is hands down the best choice if you want to add a little color—it’s timeless, chic, and just so cool.
Shop the look:
& other stories
Fitted tank top
If you don’t already own a white tank, now is the time to get one.
AGOLDE
+ Net Sustain Long, high-waisted, organic cotton straight leg jeans in 90s style with a slim waist
These are my personal favorite jeans.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Sandals “Scolobi 90” in flocked mesh with satin trim
The perfect finishing touch.