How to Style the Color Navy for Work
Why is the color navy so tough to style? Navy is such a closet staple color here in the US… but so many people struggle with wearing it so avoid it completely! In today’s article, I’m going to show you how I would style the color navy for work.
The Rules for Wearing the Color Navy
I personally don’t think there are any “rules” to wearing navy any more than there are rules for brown and black! Some people are very against mixing black and navy together, but as long as you do it in a classy manner, I’ve never seen an issue in it. This article has some great ideas on how to do this seamlessly.
How I would Dress up the Color Navy for Work
1 - Add a Color Pop to a Navy Workwear Dress with Sleeves
A long sleeve, rouched navy dress can take you from office to happy hour in the most chic and easy fashion. With this style, it’s important to check three things: length, tightness, and the depth of the neckline. Remember, when it comes to work, modesty is key. If any of those three factors are questionable, I would steer clear.
Vibrant colors like orange, red, and pink always work well with a deep navy tone. Throw a wrap on that is primarily these colors (like this one that is Hermes inspired!) to change the dynamic of your entire look. Easy & sophisticated.
Slip on nude heels are a wardrobe staple. Keep them nice on the weekends, and you can easily pair them with almost any outfit for work. I recommend starting out with an affordable pair (like this one) and then investing in a nicer pair down the road if they are something you feel is in line with your personal style.
A structured nude, taupe, or light brown bag will add dimension to your look without taking the eye off the prize: the outfit itself.
Neutral colored hair clips can go with anything and make even the craziest of hair days look tame. Throw these into your bag or desk drawer so there is one accessible at all times.
2 - Dress up a Navy Maxi Skirt
A flowy midi or full length skirt is flattering on almost every body type. Tuck your blouse in to show off a little more figure, or wear a short, thicker knit or print untucked for a more hidden look. Both are flattering and work well in the workplace!
A white, fitted blouse is a wardrobe staple for any professional woman’s closet. Though I am linking both affordable and more “splurge” worthy blouses, I highly recommend making these investment pieces. Buy a size up in a nice brand and have them tailored to fit your body for years worth of wear.
A neutral, open cut jacket with a collar will grow with you through the years. I would buy one as a trial piece (under $100) initially, and then upgrade over time to one you will own your whole life. This particular one is highly rated, well cut, and a great budget choice.
Statement shoes are an affordable way to dress up classic looks. Snakeskin is cheetah print’s older (and slightly classier) sister. Get a cheap pair to try out (like these) and then invest in a pricier pair down the road once you know what style you want to wear long term. This particular pair should last 4 -6 years.
3 - The Navy Pencil Skirt with the Oversized Blazer
The navy pencil skirt is something worth spending a little bit more on so it’ll last for years. This cut and style will never go obsolete and is an absolute must for any business woman’s closet.
The oversized blazer is a piece that can be worn in and out of the office. Putting it on over something a little bit more figure flattering pulls your outfit together and keeps you from looking baggy.
A brown pump is something that can go with any outfit (for the most part) and – like the pencil skirt – is worth investing in. Cheap pumps can ruin your feet and cause issues later on in life. I’m not saying you need to spend hundreds on these shoes. Just invest more than $20 on a solid pair with a good foundation. They’ll last longer this way, too! I personally love a good pump with jeans moment, and wear my snakeskin pumps in this same brand to weddings on a regular basis! So comfortable yet sophisticated.
Blouses with a bow are a flirty, feminine way to add a little dimension to your outfit. I love this cream blouse and the bow’s detailing!
4 - Add some Color with a Statement Shoe
You can never go wrong with a structured mini dress (as long as you keep length in mind). I personally would wear this with a statement shoe (like I did here) or with an oversized blazer and a silk scarf.
A statement shoe can take your outfit to an entirely different level! Don’t be afraid to play around with colors that are in the same family as the navy.
This brown and cream bag is the perfect day to day work bag. It has enough space to hold everything you need without being overly bulky.
