What Color Shoes Match a Navy Blue Dress?

Actress Jennifer Aniston wears a navy dress with simple black sandals at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival.
... Jag Gundu/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

When black feels boring and white seems too bright, a navy dress is just right. Navy’s appeal is that it goes with nearly everything but is less harsh -- and also less predictable -- than the little black dress. Pick shoes to highlight your dress or add some unexpected oomph -- a myriad of color options await you.

1 Subtle Pairings

Pairing a navy dress with nude, beige or metallic footwear is always in good taste. Pick a neutral hue to match your skin tone -- or rock silver, pewter or gold strappy sandals, and complete the look with jewelry in the same metallic finish. This cohesive approach keeps the focus on your dress, not your feet. Contrary to old-school fashion rules, navy also teams well with both brown and black. Go this route if you prefer a less-conventional approach but still want a neutral palette. Wear a navy A-line dress with black-patent Mary Janes and a black clutch for a dressed-up look, or go casual with a navy T-shirt dress and brown T-strap sandals, gold hoops and a brown leather cross-body bag.

2 Standout Picks

Neutrals and metallics aren’t the only game in town. Make a bold fashion statement with a pair of bright shoes. Hot pink, yellow and tangerine are unexpected but complementary finishes; navy is a near-neutral color, so it’s almost impossible to color clash. For a nautical look, wear a navy minidress with red ballet flats -- complete the outfit with a red-and-white striped scarf.

Stacey Kole holds a Master's Degree in Education and has written for a variety of education publications. She also was managing editor of the International fashion and beauty publication Savvy, penning cover stories on such celebrities as Vanessa Hudgens and Julianne Hough.

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