The hardest part of figuring out what to wear to a wedding is officially done. You’ve picked out a dress and opted for a beautiful shade of navy blue. You can already picture yourself wearing it at the ceremony and as you revel at the reception. But before you get to grooving, there’s one thing left to do: accessorize. It’s time to select the finishing touches that turn your dress into a full-fledged outfit. You’ve got to wade into an endless ocean of shoes, jewelry, bags and layering pieces. Stumped on where to start? Don’t send up an SOS signal just yet cause we’re throwing you a life preserver. Read on for our favorite women’s fashion tips on how to accessorize a navy blue dress for a wedding.
Can You Wear a Navy Blue Dress to a Wedding?
Before we deep dive into accessorizing a navy blue dress for a wedding, we have a question to answer. Can you wear a navy blue dress to a wedding? We’re glad to report that it’s a resounding yes in our book. In women’s fashion, darker hues automatically feel more dressed up. Navy is a classic neutral that you can rely on for all dress codes and types of wedding attire. This shade pairs particularly well with evening celebrations as well as black tie, formal and semi-formal nuptials. For these upscale events, why not pick a dress made from luxe materials, including satin, crepe or chiffon? This shade of blue is also a go-to for winter and fall weddings when moody colors reign supreme. Picture a velvet shift dress or a long-sleeve frock with lace details against a snowy backdrop.
Want to wear a navy blue dress to summer weddings instead? Be our guest! Navy is a natural choice for sunshine shindigs as well. Just opt for a dress with a warm-weather-friendly silhouette to balance out your outfit. For example, think of a sleeveless shift with a boat neck for a garden venue. Wondering what to wear to a beach wedding? Fit the laid-back vibes of a coastal ceremony with a spaghetti strap sundress covered in playful florals. You’ll fit right in with the oceanic color palette.
What’s the only instance when you may wish to leave your navy dress for another day? If the couple tying the knot asks you to do so. Occasionally, weddings have themes or cultural practices that require guests to wear specific colors or avoid others. But if you’ve checked your invitation and have the all-clear, go ahead and say I do to navy blue.
The Best Colors to Pair With a Navy Blue Dress
Congratulations, your dress is approved for the big day. Now, let’s get into the first step of how to accessorize a navy blue dress for a wedding. Start by figuring out what colors go well together when paired with navy blue. Here are our top three color story recommendations to jazz it up:
1. Contrasting Brights. Ever heard the saying, opposites attract? Colors sitting across from each other on the color wheel are matches made in heaven. These are called complementary colors. Any shade of yellow will pop against navy. A vibrant one with hints of orange makes an especially enchanting duo. However, don’t restrict yourself to just yellow. Warm tones of orange, red and pink also boost blue outfits. Hot pink and tangerine, in particular, will pump up the drama of your ensemble in a flash.
2. Neutrals and Metallics. For lovers of a low-key look, pair your navy blue dress with neutrals and metallics. You can safely partner this tone with brown, grey, white and, yes, even black. Search for accessories in lush cognac and mahogany, or lighten up with tan and beige additions. Lastly, metallic tones like gold and silver offer infinite accessorizing possibilities, especially for jewelry.
3. Shades of Blue. Ready to redefine “feeling blue?” Monochromatic pieces are fashion-forward choices for special occasions. Pick out accessories in matching navy blue, or go for a tonal approach. Adding lighter shades of the same color to your outfit will make your navy dress appear even richer. Reach for hues such as smokey sapphire or an icy arctic azure.
Now you’re a color theory pro—time to move on to accessorizing a navy blue dress for a wedding. Let’s kick things off from the bottom: women’s shoes.
How to Accessorize a Navy Blue Dress for a Wedding: Shoes
One of the most important considerations for how to accessorize a navy blue dress for a wedding is shoes. As a basic ground rule, choose heels that you can comfortably wear for the entirety of the event. Test drive your shoes at home, and if you’re buying new ones, allow for enough time to break them in.
Next, let the wedding dress code be your guide. For a formal or black-tie affair, embrace a pared-down approach to accessories. Stick to more subdued shoe options. Nude pumps are a classic choice, and pointed-toe heels with a demure ankle strap will never let you down. Are you attending a ceremony that requires semi-formal wedding attire? Go a little more foot-loose and fancy-free with a pair of strappy snakeskin-print block heels. If the dance floor is your priority, put on flats. Keep the celebratory look with fun details like a lace pattern or bejeweled toes. Similar rules go for women’s cocktail attire—think put-together with a dash of flair.
When searching for a casual shoe to pair with your navy blue dress, swap your stilettos for wedges or booties. Feel free to experiment with trend-forward styles such as multi-color shoes and lace-up metallic heels. While casual wedding attire isn’t as buttoned-up, there are still parameters you’ll want to respect with your footwear choice. We recommend staying away from sneakers and flip-flops unless you get the okay from the ones getting married. However, in the case of what to wear to a summer wedding with a casual vibe, sandals are permissible. Keep your feet festive with a satin bow or braided leather straps. We’ve started out your journey to accessorizing a navy blue dress for a wedding on the right foot. Let’s move on to women’s jewelry options.
Jewelry: The Perfect Finishing Touch
Picking the right jewelry is the icing on the cake when accessorizing your navy blue dress for a wedding. Whether you fancy silver, gold or mixing and matching both metals—ladies, the possibilities are endless. Silver jewelry offers a classic touch of sparkle, perfect for celebrating the happy couple. For a modern twist, dazzle in glistening gold tones. This will complement your navy dress and bring a tasteful luster without outshining the newlyweds. Want to sprinkle in a little pizzazz? Bring an extra pop with enamels. These come from a natural form of quartz and offer a trend-aware way to incorporate color into your outfit. Play off the scenery with dreamy pastels for an outdoor ceremony or bright jewel-tone shades for an intimate cocktail celebration. Or, if you have an affinity for the classics, wearing pearls is always a good idea.
Be purposeful when choosing how to accessorize a navy blue dress for a wedding. Consider the neckline, sleeve length or print. If you selected a solid, minimalistic silhouette, reach for a bold statement piece. Give an embellished headband a try while watching the doting couple say, “I do.” Elevate this trendy hairpiece by pulling your tresses back into a swept-up ‘do. If a headband is too adventurous, pearl or jeweled hairpins are equally whimsical options. A chunkier chain necklace is another way to add edge to your elegant ensemble. If you’re taking cues from the regencycore trend with puffy sleeves, amplify the drama with an ornate cuff bracelet. Highlight lower necklines with a lariat or layered necklace to showcase the cut of your dress. Are you perhaps planning to wow in a dress with a higher neckline like a halter? Adding statement earrings to your style is a clear winner.
How to Accessorize a Navy Blue Dress for a Wedding: Bags and Purses
Choosing a bag for accessorizing a navy blue dress for a wedding is all about finding a balance between aesthetics and functionality. From clutches to sophisticated crossbody purses, there are several types of bags that can upgrade your blissful look. They also serve as a way to spice up your outfit with a pattern. If you’re new to prints, start small. A zebra print mini bag will do the trick. Rather hold someone’s hand than your bag? Try a crossbody to keep you unencumbered. One with a chain strap will catch the light on the dance floor. These are easy to drape across the back of your chair. If you are looking for a smaller style, wristlets take the cake. Don’t let their size fool you, as they often hold more than just cash and cards. You can stash a lip gloss into the zipper pockets of these popular purses.
Wondering how to accessorize your navy blue dress for a wedding with something roomier? We recommend a hand or shoulder bag. Handbags are exactly what their name states, a bag you hold on to with your hand. Although, some have a convenient crossbody strap as well. Add panache to your wedding look with an embellished handle. Chunky chains, thicker straps and mixed metals bring that extra oomph. For a blast from the past, grab a baguette shoulder bag or a boho-inspired slouchy satchel. These 90s fashion favorites are back again and can do it all. Brought along a card for the betrothed couple or a spare pair of flats for dancing the night away? You’ve got it in the bag.
Lovely Layering Pieces
Not all weddings take place against sunny seaside landscapes or in temperature-controlled venues. However, you can still toast the happy couple comfortably if you keep the location top of mind. If you’re wondering how to accessorize a navy blue dress for a wedding with opulent layers, we have you covered. For outdoor weddings, think of these pieces as your guarantee for a good time. It’s time to pile on the style.
If the dress code is cocktail attire, it’s time to have some fun. Try a fashion-forward moto-inspired jacket in faux leather. Prefer a classic style when thinking about how to accessorize your dress? Cover up with timeless silhouettes like a tweed women’s coat or a chic blazer. Now that you’re an accessory aficionado, you can wish the newlyweds well as they embark on their next chapter.
For a casual setting like summer weddings in a backyard or rustic barn, denim jackets are practical and appropriate. The juxtaposition between a feminine dress with ruffles, playful hemlines or prints will add a touch of effortless flair. If you’re attending a spring semi-formal affair, layer up with polished outerwear like a trench coat. A belted option creates structure and shape in addition to providing extra warmth. A shawl is another option to take your look from ordinary to extraordinary. Look for one in a luxurious fabrication like silk or cashmere.
Are you ready to add the finishing touches to accessorize a navy dress for a wedding? Our stylists are here to help you nail your wedding outfit. Take your style quiz, order a Fix and request pieces to instantly elevate your wedding guest style. Five curated styles will arrive at your doorstep. Keep what you love and send back the rest. Shipping and returns are always free.
