Wearing Navy in 2023
Wearing the colour navy in the year 2023 is more than just a darker blue shade, in fact, Navy is indeed more than just a dark blue colour. Here are a few reasons why navy is considered distinct from other shades of blue: Historical Significance of Navy Navy blue derives its name from the uniforms worn by the British Royal Navy in the 18th century. It was chosen as the official colour for naval uniforms due to its practicality and ability to hide stains. Over time, navy blue became associated with the navy and acquired a distinct identity. Undertones and Depth Navy blue typically has deeper and richer undertones compared to other shades of blue. It often has a slight tinge of black or grey, giving it a more sophisticated and timeless appeal. The depth of navy blue sets it apart from lighter and brighter blues, making it a versatile colour choice for various occasions. Versatility and Neutrality Navy blue is often considered a neutral colour. It functions as a base or anchor colour in many outfits, similar to black or grey. Its versatility lies in its ability to pair well with a wide range of colours, allowing it to be incorporated into both casual and formal attire. Symbolism of Navy Navy blue is associated with qualities such as authority, professionalism, and stability. It is often used in corporate settings or formal events to convey a sense of seriousness and confidence. The colour’s symbolism contributes to its distinctiveness and popularity in certain contexts. Fashion and Design Navy blue has become a staple in fashion and design due to its timeless and elegant qualities. It is commonly used in clothing, accessories, home decor, and even graphic design. It’s darker and more subdued nature adds a touch of sophistication and versatility to these contexts. Overall, navy blue is more than just a dark shade of blue due to its historical significance, undertones, versatility, symbolism, and widespread use in various design fields. It offers a distinct aesthetic that sets it apart from other shades of blue and contributes to its popularity. Navy and Dark Skin Tones Wearing navy blue can look fantastic on dark skin tones. Navy blue is a versatile colour that complements a range of skin tones, including darker complexions. Here are some tips to help you rock navy blue with your dark skin: Rich Contrast The rich, deep hue of navy blue creates a striking contrast against dark skin tones. This contrast can make the colour stand out and enhance your overall look. Play with Monochrome Consider going for a monochromatic look by pairing different shades of navy blue together. You can mix and match navy blue pieces such as a navy blue top with navy blue pants or a navy blue dress. This creates a sleek and sophisticated outfit that flatters dark skin. Bold Colour Combinations Navy blue pairs well with a variety of colours, and you can experiment with bold and vibrant combinations. Consider combining navy blue with bright shades like yellow, red, fuchsia, or orange to create eye-catching and stylish outfits. These combinations create a striking contrast against dark skin tones and add a lively touch to your look. Metallic Accents Incorporate metallic accessories like gold or silver to elevate your navy blue outfit. These accents add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your overall ensemble. Patterns and Prints Don't shy away from wearing navy blue in patterns and prints. Floral prints, geometric designs, or stripes in navy blue can add visual interest and create a fashionable look. Carella Midi Floral Casual Evening Gown Dress £59. Experiment with Different Fabrics Consider trying navy blue outfits in different fabrics and textures. Luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet can create a rich and elegant look, while textured fabrics like denim or corduroy can add a more casual and edgy vibe. Quick Look: Our Navy Blue Lace Dress for Wedding Bucklebury Lace Dress £119 Quick Look: Long Sleeved Vintage Dress £99 Garland in Wildflower and Navy £99 Navy and Olive Skin Tones Navy and olive skin tones can beautifully complement each other, creating a harmonious and flattering combination. Here are some tips for wearing navy when you have an olive skin tone: Flattering Contrast Navy, being a cool-toned colour, creates a pleasing contrast against olive skin tones, which typically have warm undertones. The contrast can help bring out the natural warmth in your complexion and make your skin appear radiant. Versatile Pairing Navy is a versatile colour that can be paired with a wide range of hues. For a complementary and balanced look, consider combining navy with warm-toned colours. Olive skin tones tend to work well with earthy shades like olive green, burnt orange, mustard yellow, or warm browns. These combinations can create a cohesive and harmonious colour palette. Experiment with Accessories Add interest to your navy outfit by incorporating accessories in contrasting or complementary colours. Gold or bronze accessories can enhance the warmth of your olive skin tone, while silver or metallic accents can provide a cool-toned contrast. Play with statement jewellery, scarves, belts, or handbags to elevate your look. Consider Fabric Textures Experimenting with different fabric textures can add depth and dimension to your navy ensemble. Fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet can create a luxurious and sophisticated look. Alternatively, you can opt for textured materials like tweed, boucle, or jacquard to add interest and visual appeal to your outfit. Personalise with Prints Don't be afraid to incorporate prints into your navy outfit. Prints like floral, paisley, or geometric patterns can add a touch of personality and visual interest. Choose prints that include warm tones or colours that complement your olive skin tone to create a cohesive and stylish look. Navy and Light Skin Tones Wearing navy blue can be a great choice for individuals with pale skin. Navy blue is a versatile and timeless colour that complements a wide range of skin tones, including pale skin. Here are a few tips to help you create a stylish and flattering look: Contrast The contrast between navy blue and pale skin can create an appealing visual effect. The dark hue of navy blue against the lightness of pale skin can make the colour pop and draw attention to your outfit. Colour Combinations Navy blue pairs well with a variety of colours, allowing you to create different looks. For a classic and sophisticated appearance, combine navy blue with crisp white. This combination creates a clean and fresh look. You can also pair navy blue with other complementary colours such as blush pink, light grey, or soft pastels for a softer and more feminine aesthetic. Hybrid Laurie Off-Shoulder Dress £45 (was £128) Accessorise Use accessories to enhance your navy blue outfit and add interest. Metallic accessories like silver or gold can provide a touch of elegance. For a bolder look, you can incorporate accessories in vibrant colours, such as red or yellow, to create a striking contrast against the navy blue. Experiment with Textures Consider incorporating different textures into your navy blue outfit to add depth and dimension. Fabrics like silk, velvet, or lace can bring a touch of luxury and create visual interest. Tailoring with Navy Ensure that your navy blue garments fit well and flatter your body shape. Proper tailoring can make a significant difference in how an outfit looks on you, enhancing your overall appearance. Remember, these are general guidelines, and personal style preferences may vary. The most important thing is to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Experiment with different combinations and find the navy blue pieces and styles that suit your individual taste and personality. Different types of way to implement navy into your wardrobe. Navy lace is a beautiful and elegant fabric choice that can be used to create stunning outfits for various occasions. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate navy lace into your wardrobe: Dresses A navy lace dress is a classic and sophisticated option for formal events or evening occasions. It exudes femininity and can be styled in different ways. A fitted navy lace sheath dress can create a sleek and polished look, while a flowing navy lace maxi dress can add a touch of romance. Consider accessorizing with metallic accents or statement jewellery to complete the ensemble. Bodiam Pencil Dress £79, Faye Off-Shoulder Dress £95, Lydia Long-Sleeved Dress £85, Helium ¾ Sleeved Dress £149, Derby Button Detail Dress £175. Tops and Blouses Navy lace tops or blouses can be versatile wardrobe staples. Pair a navy lace blouse with tailored pants or a skirt for a chic and refined office outfit. For a more casual look, layer a navy lace top over a camisole or tank top and wear it with jeans or shorts. The combination of navy lace and denim creates a trendy and balanced ensemble. Skirts A navy lace skirt can be a stylish addition to your wardrobe. Opt for a knee-length or midi-length skirt for a classic and timeless look. Pair it with a tucked-in blouse or a simple top to let the lace fabric stand out. For a feminine touch, you can add a thin belt to define your waist and complete the outfit with heels or ballet flats. Antibe Skirt £75, SEED Elixir Skirt £55, SEED Dawlish Skirt £85, Highfield A-Line Skirt £39 (was £75). Trousers Wearing trousers can be a sophisticated addition to your wardrobe. With the versatility of each pair, you’re able to choose from a vast of accessories and footwear, including belts and high heels that allow for longer tailoring in the legs. What’s more, wearing a navy pair of trousers allows for you to wear a louder, more expressive top without feeling overpowering. Diva Trousers £79 Accessories If you prefer a subtle touch of navy lace, consider incorporating it into your accessories. Look for navy lace handbags, clutches, or scarves that can add a touch of texture and elegance to your outfits. These accessories can be paired with both casual and formal looks, providing a sophisticated finishing touch. Adding Navy via Colour Block Dresses Colour block dresses offer several benefits that make them a popular choice among fashion-forward individuals. Here are some advantages of wearing a colour block dress: Bold and Eye-Catching Colour block dresses feature distinct blocks of different colours, creating a visually striking and attention-grabbing look. The bold contrast between the colours makes a statement and adds a pop of vibrancy to your outfit. Banbury Colour Block Sleeveless Dress £95, Nadia ¾ Sleeved Dress £94.50 (was £135), Reggie Sleeved Colour Block Dress £89. Flattering Silhouette Colour blocking can be strategically designed to enhance your body shape and create a flattering silhouette. By using contrasting colours in specific areas, colour block dresses can visually slim and accentuate certain parts of your body. For example, darker colours on the sides can create the illusion of a narrower waist. Sabine Colour Block Dress £99 Versatility Colour block dresses come in a variety of styles, including shift dresses, A-line dresses, bodycon dresses, and more. This versatility allows you to choose a style that suits your body type and personal preference. Additionally, colour block dresses can be appropriate for different occasions, ranging from casual outings to more formal events, depending on the dress's design and fabric. SEED Lara Block Dress £139 Playful and Modern Look Colour blocking adds a contemporary and playful touch to your outfit. It allows you to experiment with different colour combinations and create unique and fashionable looks. You can choose contrasting colours that complement each other or opt for a monochromatic colour block with different shades of the same colour. Express Individual Style Colour block dresses provide an opportunity to showcase your personal style and creativity. You can mix and match colours that reflect your personality and create a unique look. It's a fun way to experiment with fashion and express yourself through your clothing choices. Easy Styling Colour block dresses are often statement pieces on their own, requiring minimal styling. They can be paired with simple accessories and neutral shoes to let the dress be the focal point of your ensemble. This simplicity makes colour block dresses an effortless choice for those who want a stylish and put-together look without much effort. Wearing Navy Coats to Compliment Your Outfit Wearing a navy coat can be a stylish and versatile choice for various occasions and seasons. Here are some benefits and tips for wearing a navy coat: Timeless and Classic Navy is a timeless colour that never goes out of style. A navy coat exudes elegance, sophistication, and versatility, making it a versatile option that can be worn year after year. SEED Lambria Coat £139, SEED Dawlish Coat £129. Versatility Navy is a neutral colour that pairs well with a wide range of other colours. It can be easily coordinated with various outfits and accessories, making it a versatile choice. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or going for a casual look, a navy coat can be effortlessly incorporated into your wardrobe. Complements Different Skin Tones Navy is a flattering colour for a variety of skin tones. It can enhance your natural complexion and bring out your features. Whether you have fair, medium, or dark skin, a navy coat can complement your tone and provide a flattering contrast. Professional and Polished Navy coats have a professional and polished look, making them suitable for work settings and formal occasions. A well-fitted navy coat can instantly elevate your outfit and give a refined touch to your overall appearance. SEED Dawlish Coat £129, Twilight Coat £155. Seasonal Adaptability Navy coats are suitable for both colder and transitional seasons. In colder months, you can opt for a heavier navy coat with warm insulation or a wool blend fabric to provide warmth and protection against the elements. In milder weather, lighter-weight navy coats made from materials like cotton or trench coat styles can be a stylish layering option. Styling Tips When wearing a navy coat, consider the occasion and the rest of your outfit. For a formal look, pair it with tailored trousers or a skirt, a crisp white shirt, and heels. For a more casual look, you can combine it with jeans or leggings, a cosy sweater or a turtleneck, and ankle boots or sneakers. Experiment with different textures and colours to create interesting and complementary combinations. Navy Blue Lace Dresses for every day of the year Wearing a lace dress can be a beautiful and feminine choice for various occasions. Lace adds texture, elegance, and a touch of romance to an outfit. Here are some tips to consider when wearing a lace dress: Style and Fit Choose a lace dress that suits your body type and personal style. Lace dresses come in various styles, such as sheath, A-line, fit and flare, or bodycon. Consider the occasion and your comfort level when selecting the silhouette. Ensure that the dress fits well and flatters your figure. Colour Lace dresses come in a range of colours, but classic options like white, black, navy, or pastels are popular choices. Consider your skin tone and personal preferences when choosing a colour. Neutral tones like white or black can be versatile, while pastels can add a soft and romantic touch. Undergarments Choose the right undergarments to wear with your lace dress. Nude or seamless undergarments can minimise visible lines and maintain the focus on the lace detailing. Depending on the dress's design, you may need a slip or nude-coloured camisole for added coverage. Accessories Complement your lace dress with suitable accessories. Delicate jewellery, such as dainty necklaces or stud earrings, can enhance the feminine look. Opt for neutral or metallic tones that don't overpower the lace. Consider adding a belt to define your waist or a clutch or handbag that complements the dress. Footwear Select footwear that complements the style and occasion of your lace dress. Strappy sandals or pumps can create an elegant and dressy look, while flats or block heels can provide a more casual and comfortable option. Consider the dress length and your personal style when choosing shoes. Layering Depending on the weather or formality of the occasion, you may want to layer your lace dress with a cardigan, blazer, or shawl. This adds versatility and can help create a different look or provide extra coverage. Choosing a Navy Dress for Weddings As we enter into summer 2023, we can fully embrace the wedding season! Wearing navy to a wedding can be a sophisticated and stylish choice. Navy is a versatile colour that works well for both daytime and evening weddings, and it complements a variety of skin tones. Here are some tips for wearing navy to a wedding: Check the Dress Code Before deciding on your outfit, it's important to consider the wedding's dress code. If the invitation specifies a black-tie or formal dress code, opt for a more formal navy ensemble, such as a navy evening gown or a tailored navy suit. For a semi-formal or cocktail dress code, a navy cocktail dress or a dressy separates combination can be appropriate. Always follow the dress code guidelines to ensure you're dressed appropriately for the occasion. Bristow Dress £85 Consider the Season Take into account the season when selecting your navy outfit. For a summer wedding, you can choose a lighter fabric and a sleeveless or short-sleeved dress. In colder months, opt for a navy dress with longer sleeves or consider layering with a wrap or jacket in a complementary colour. Style and Silhouette Select a navy dress or outfit that flatters your body shape and suits your personal style. Consider the formality of the wedding and your comfort level. Navy dresses come in various styles, such as A-line, fit and flare, sheath, or maxi. Choose a silhouette that makes you feel confident and comfortable throughout the event. Thruxton Maxi Pencil Dress £125, Hollie Pencil Dress £125, Accessories Complete your navy wedding look with carefully chosen accessories. Metallic or nude-tone accessories, such as shoes, clutch, and jewellery, can beautifully complement navy. Gold or silver accents work particularly well with navy, adding a touch of elegance. Avoid accessories that overpower the navy, allowing the colour to remain the focal point. Makeup and Hairstyle Coordinate your makeup and hairstyle with your navy outfit. Neutral or soft tones for makeup can complement navy nicely, while a pop of colour on the lips or a shimmery eye look can add extra glamour. For your hairstyle, consider an up do, loose waves, or a sleek ponytail, depending on the formality and style of the wedding. Etiquette and Respect While navy is generally a safe choice for weddings, it's important to avoid upstaging the bride. Avoid wearing a white or ivory dress that may compete with the bride's attire. Additionally, follow any specific requests or traditions mentioned by the couple regarding attire. In conclusion, we love navy and how it can be incorporated into so many different styles and events. We suggest grabbing the next item you see and pairing it with your favourite pieces. Have you enjoyed this article? Let us know it all via social media using our links below!
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