Style Spotlight: Navy is the New Black

Navy is a timeless shade of blue. Often used in nautical decor, police uniforms, and team colors; it’s not new—but navy blue is showing up in a plethora of new places.

As a traditional color and one that can replace black, it works as an accent too. When it comes to decor, navy is as time-honored as black, and just as versatile. Navy can feel more fresh than black, warmer, and a bit more unexpected in some cases. While it can replace black, navy doesn’t clash with it or any other color, so it can be used in many situations and places in the home.

Bathroom

Because navy exudes a feeling of freshness, it’s perfect for use in the bathroom. A nautical or ocean theme or combined with a lighter color, such as yellow, cream, or even coral is a gorgeous look. Consider contrasting larger navy elements with white tile floor and metallic accents in the mirror and lighting to create a luxurious look. Add navy accessories for consistency or contrast.

Vanities and vanity tops

Because the vanity can become the focal point of the bathroom, or at the very least, a point of interest, consider going bold with color. If choosing a separate vanity top for a blue vanity, it should be a neutral shade. Or perhaps choose a stained-wood vanity, cream-colored vanity top, and strike out with a blue sink.

Faucets

Another exceptional quality of navy is that it goes well with almost any metal finish. Because it’s a cool color, navy pairs well with warm tones such as brass, gold, and copper; but its grey undertones are complemented by silver metals just as well.

Bathtubs

Picture a bathroom in mostly white. In the center, a beautiful blue tub punctuating the space, accented by a silver-toned tub filler. This scene is pure sophistication.

Kitchen

Navy is definitely showing up in kitchens more and more often. Cabinets, appliances, tile, furnishings, and decor are just a few places we’ve seen navy making a strong appearance.

Even paint shades are taking on more blue hues.

Appliances

Blue appliances aren’t new, but this particular shade may be. Paired with silver-toned metals, these appliances add color where there normally isn’t much.

Cabinets

Navy blue cabinets, paired with just the right hardware, give the kitchen an air of refinement. Consider pairing them with light or even butcher-block counter tops to create an interesting, rustic look. White cabinetry is classic, paired with navy hardware or navy countertops.

Hardware

This hue is complemented well by warm, metal tones like gold, brass, and copper. Consider mixing metals with tips from this article.

Tile

In a bright white kitchen, envision navy blue subway tile. Or a blue mosaic backsplash to pull together other blue elements in the decor. Choosing navy blue creates contrast with white or light decor and walls.

Lighting

Since navy is a classic hue, add color to a lighting plan without worrying about it going out of style. Or swap out shades on chandeliers for a quick color update.

Decor

Navy blue adds refined accents in decor that is dominated by wood. Pair the color with warm leather and gold-toned accessories to create contrast. It’s a great pick for upholstery, and won’t go out of style. When blue paint is used on walls, choose light decor pieces for the foreground to create decor interest, such as an armoire or display cabinet. As well, white walls make the perfect background for navy blue furniture, where it will stand out.

Join the Navy—Trend

The attraction of navy blue is that it adds color but still feels safe. It’s memorable while still being livable. It may or may not be the “new black,” but it’s certainly not new and can hold its own against black any day.