Navy Blue Blazer

Navy blue blazer, silk shirt and pixie cut
Image: AI ilustration
Q: I want a more professional look for myself. I already have a hair appointment to cut my hair into a short bob next week. I want to pair my new haircut with a blazer and either a button-front shirt or maybe a turtleneck. I already bought myself a navy blue blazer jacket. What are the best colors of shirts, turtlenecks, and trousers to combine with this? I know that a white blouse and jeans would look good, but are there any other options?
 
A: You've made an excellent choice with a navy blazer. It's truly one of the most versatile pieces you can own and will serve as a fantastic foundation for creating polished, professional looks. Navy blue functions almost like a neutral in your wardrobe, which means it plays well with a surprisingly wide range of colors and styles.
 
While you're absolutely right that a crisp white button-down shirt with dark jeans creates a classic, pulled-together look, there are many other sophisticated combinations to explore. For blouses and turtlenecks, consider soft pastels like powder blue, blush pink, or sage green, which create an elegant contrast against the navy while maintaining a professional appearance. Cream and ivory are also beautiful choices that offer a softer alternative to stark white, and they work particularly well if you prefer warmer tones near your face.
 
When it comes to bottoms, you have numerous options beyond jeans. Khaki or tan trousers are a timeless pairing that works beautifully in both casual and business settings. For a more refined look, try trousers in neutral shades like bone, camel, or even crisp white pants for a sophisticated nautical-inspired ensemble that's perfect for warmer weather or more formal occasions.
 
Gray trousers in various shades also work wonderfully with navy. From light dove gray to charcoal, this combination creates a polished, business-appropriate look. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, burgundy or wine-colored pants can create a rich, autumn-appropriate palette when paired with your navy blazer and a cream or white top.
 
Woman wearing a pink shirt and a navy blue blazer, with her hair in a bob
Image: AI ilustration
Woman wearing a cream turtleneck and a navy blue blazer
Image: AI ilustration
One important styling principle to keep in mind is avoiding the navy-and-black combination, as this pairing often appears unintentional and can look like you accidentally mixed pieces from different suits. The contrast isn't quite strong enough to look deliberate, which can undermine the refined look you're aiming for.
 
For a particularly sophisticated monochromatic approach, try pairing your navy blazer with a navy turtleneck or blouse in a slightly different shade, then add tan or khaki pants. This creates a refined, pulled-together appearance that's professional without being overly formal. The key is to ensure there's enough contrast between the navy pieces so they don't look like a failed attempt at matching.
 
Consider the occasion and season when making your selections. Lighter colors like white pants or pastel tops work beautifully for spring and summer professional settings, while richer tones like burgundy or deeper creams are perfect for fall and winter. The beauty of your navy blazer is that it transitions seamlessly through seasons and dress codes, making it a true wardrobe workhorse that will serve you well in your quest for a more professional appearance.
 
Shirt colors to wear with a navy blue blazer
Image: AI ilustration
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See also:
 
How not to look fat in jackets
 
Layering clothes: How to do it right
 
How to mix and match clothing
 
Matching your hairstyle to your clothes