Navy blue is a dark blue shade known for its classic and refined nature. This shade has been used in art, fashion, and design to symbolize authority, depth, and calmness. Although navy is often associated with the navy (hence its name), the shade has also found a place in high fashion and interiors.
Photo: Tanel Veenre’s wallpaper collection in collaboration with baubauwall
Navy blue vs ultramarine blue
Since we have already made acquaintance with ultramarine blue, it would be appropriate to start by comparing these two colours. Both are shades of dark blue, but there are some important differences between them:
Navy blue is deeper and darker, giving the impression of neutral, restrained and calm. This colour is almost close to black and is known for its elegance and conservatism.
Ultramarine, on the other hand, is a brighter, more brilliant blue that has historically been considered a luxurious and royal hue. Ultramarine is vibrant and eye-catching, with an intense shimmer that stands out well.
Navy blue is often preferred in formal situations due to its restraint, while ultramarine has a bolder and more creative effect in art and fashion.
In the photo, Inga Kaare in ultramarine blue and Tanel in navy blue, at the Portal fashion show.
The roots of navy blue
The history of navy blue dates back to the 18th century, when it was first used in the British Royal Navy. In naval uniforms, the tone was dark and unobtrusively practical, helping to symbolise discipline and strength. Over time, this blue also became popular in civilian fashion and uniforms, still today having a strong association with formality and reliability. It is a popular colour alternative to black in formal and elegant outfits. To this day, the sea blue shade is considered a symbol of style and timeless beauty.
P. Picasso "Portrait of Angel Fernández de Soto" 1903
Blue in art
When talking about the blue tone in art, one cannot fail to mention the Spanish painter Pablo Picasso’s Blue Period (Período Azul in Spanish) from 1901 to 1904. During this time, Picasso painted essentially monochrome paintings with shades of blue and teal, only occasionally warmed by other colours.
Photo: invaluable.com
Navy blue in fashion
In fashion, navy blue is primarily used to achieve formality and a more chic feel. This shade is especially loved for suits and coats, offering a dark and elegant alternative to black. Navy blue is also a colour that works well with a variety of fabrics and textures – it looks elegant and subtle on silk, yet structured on wool and knits.
How do we perceive navy blue?
Navy blue is usually associated with authority and professionalism. It conveys stability, reliability and sophistication. Colour often represents depth and expertise. In colour psychology, dark blue is believed to promote mental clarity and concentration.
Photo: Tanel fashion show Les Fleurs du mal
What to match navy blue with?
- White and beige: Navy blue and light tones are a classic combination that creates a clean and neat look. For example, a white blouse with navy blue pants or a white dress with navy blue accessories.
- Pink/Purple Tones: These soft and calm tones bring femininity and delicacy to navy blue, creating an elegant look.
- Silver: The addition of silver to navy blue creates a cold and modern combination. Silver jewellery or accessories bring out the softness of navy blue and add sparkle.
- Gold: The addition of gold gives navy blue warmth and luxury. With gold details or jewellery, navy blue can be made even more elegant and festive.
- Dark colours such as black or grey create a modern and minimalist look together with navy blue.
