Shopping for Navy Blue Dresses

Navy blue is not just for nautical Halloween costumes anymore!  In fact, this fresh neutral is one of the most versatile shades of the summer.  A navy blue dress can be anything from a basic under layer to the star of your chicest outfit.  Read on to make your search a little bit easier.

Basic

A simple cotton navy dress can be an original beach cover-up or the perfect backdrop for stacks of special jewelry and a crisp menswear blazer.  You want your basic pieces to be of good quality, but there is no reason to break the bank.  The “Rope Halter” dress from Victoria’s Secret ($20.50) has a universally flattering shape and is made of soft cotton for effortless comfort and style.  A build in bra makes it perfect for wandering the beach or lounging at home.  American sportswear brand Lacoste teamed up with Catherine Malandrino to create the “Drape Dress,” ($152) with an asymmetrical gathering at the left hip and shoulder and a relaxed neckline.  Wear it courtside or layer it under a sporty jacket.  A sexy knotted back dress from label BDG (Urban Outfitters, $19.99) is an urban staple.  Layer on long necklaces and pair the ensemble with platform wedges for a tough summer look.

Flirty

Sometimes we need a piece that will stand out regardless of how we accessorize.  The cream lace Peter Pan collar helps the “Myla” dress (topshop.com, $140) by Motel do just that!  Take the vibe of youthful sophistication a step further with the Marc by Marc Jacobs “Camille” (bluefly.com, $179).  Deep navy trimmed with bold white and playfully buttoned down the front.  A dramatic twist in the center of a simple Halston Heritage shift ($325) sets the state for chic jewelry and a sexy pair of strappy heels.  Let your dress do the print mixing for you in this cami dress by Beyond Vintage (Cusp by Neiman Marcus, $286).  This white-and-navy frock is so retro you won’t be able to resist pairing it with high-heeled Mary Janes.  Embrace the nautical side of navy in See by Chloe’s navy twill mini adorned with off-center gold buttons (bluefly.com, $278).

Formal

Navy isn’t just for cookouts and seaside adventures anymore.  The latest offerings are glamorous enough to compete with your favorite LBD or crystal-studded evening gown.  Velvet gets a lesson in urban cool when dyed navy and outfitted with a sculpted back drape and a grosgrain belt (mytheresa.com, $259).  Pair this Richard Nicoll masterpiece with an oversized clutch and dark pumps.  The “Lace Ballerina” dress by Rare Opulence (topshop.com, $296) features a dramatic pouf of navy tulle for a skirt and a rouched lace bust with asymmetrical neckline.  The subtle color balances the high drama of the dress.  Pair it with metallic gold heels for a sublime combination.  An elegant column from Badgley Mischka’s Platinum Label (bluefly.com, $350) features stunning drapery that hits the floor and delicate peal beading on the shoulders.