Paris Essentials

French Fashion

Lifestyle

Beauty

Travel

Packing

Woman wearing navy and black standing outside a restaurant.

THE BLOG

How To Wear Navy Blue and Black Together Like A Parisian

Sep 18, 2025

bonjour

I'm Noelani. Through La Vie On Grand, I aim to inspire women over 40 to embrace classic essentials, step away from fleeting trends, and cultivate that elusive je ne sais quoi.

TOP LINKS

instagram

substack

Visit the Shop

shop my

Get The Guide

Dress Like a French Woman

A Parisian-inspired one-page style guide for effortless, everyday dressing.

How To Wear Navy Blue & Black Together Like A Parisian

Parisian women have some of the best street styles with classic and chic outfit combinations, including wearing navy blue and black together. Today, I will share several outfit combinations and ways you can easily incorporate navy blue and black like a Parisian.

If you ask most people if they would wear navy blue and black together, they would say no because they are unsure how to pair the two colors together without looking like they clash. However, Parisian women can do this and look effortlessly chic and modern at the same time.

I am not sure why this is such a fashion faux pas for most, as when paired right, the color combination of navy blue and black looks incredibly chic and elegant.

Maybe that’s why Parisian women have been wearing this color combination forever. After all, they are the definition of chic and elegant.

Navy blue and black are my favorite color combinations to wear together, but my biggest fashion inspirations are French and Parisian women.

Parisians generally stick to neutral color palettes with black, grey, brown, and navy blue tones. These colors make it relatively simple to put together timeless outfit combinations

Here are several very influential Parisians, InĆØs de La Fressange and Caroline de Maigret, each wearing their own take on navy blue and black. You can see several images of both these ladies all over Pinterest wearing navy blue and black together.

One of my all-time favorite style icons is Emanuelle Alt, who is a master at wearing the color combination together. Alt does it so effortlessly and makes it look so classic and elevated. Her former Vogue partner, Geraldine Saglio, also knows how to make this color combination stand out.

What Makes Navy Blue And Black Work Together

Like black, navy blue conveys power, intelligence, and confidence. I don’t know about you, but I love wearing colors that make me feel this way.

This isn’t a color combination that is worn a lot in the States, and I haven’t figured out why. I assume it’s just because, for so long, there’s been a “quiet” rule that you can’t wear these two colors in the same outfit. European designers have been using this color combination for years.

The colors aren’t too off from each other, so however you wear them together, make sure one stands out. How many times have you looked in your closet and wondered if that top was navy blue or black?

How I Wear Navy Blue And Black Like A Parisian

SƩzane Coat, SƩzane Jacob Jumper (Wearing a M), Mother Denim (TTS), SƩzane Bucket Bag, Mango Boots which are old (similar here)

Woman wearing navy and black standing outside a restaurant.

SƩzane Chlo Top (Wearing size 6), AGOLDE Straight Leg Denim (TTS), Sam Edelman Slingbacks (TTS), Celine Belt.

6 Simple Rules For Wearing Navy Blue And Black Together Like a Parisian

There are six simple rules I like to stick with when thinking about wearing navy blue and black together. Don’t think too much about it; follow these simple rules, and this just might become a color combination you go to all the time. I wear this combination the most during the fall and winter seasons. These are also the same seasons I tend to see most Parisian women wearing this combination, although they certainly wear it in spring and summer.

1. Start With A Simple Foundation

If you aren’t used to wearing this color combination together, then start simple. Maybe a navy blue dress with black pumps or tall black boots.

Or maybe a black sweater with a navy blue scarf. One of my favorite combinations is a navy coat with black jeans.

A popular way to add the two colors amongst French people is with the classic navy Breton top, a pair of black jeans, and a navy blazer.

2. Add A Contrasting Color And Texture

Add a contrasting color when wearing navy and black together, maybe in your accessories or shoes, like brown boots. The contrast helps the outfit look sharp and thoughtful.

You could also incorporate white to look sharp with a basic Navy blazer, white tee, and black jeans.

Parisian women use texture to distinguish between navy and black. A matte navy fabric, like wool or cotton, contrasts beautifully with shiny black leather or sleek satin.

3. Make The Color Standout

Whichever way you choose to wear the two colors, make sure they stand out from each other. If not, then you’ll end up with a black-on-black outfit.

I prefer to wear black on the bottom mostly and Navy on the top when combining the two. Although, it is just as acceptable to wear a pair of navy pants and a black top or sweater.

4. Strategic Layering With Navy Blue And Black Together

Layering is key to creating dimension and breaking up the monochromatic effect. For example, a black blazer over a navy turtleneck or a navy coat with a black dress underneath creates subtle depth.

Nobody layers better than Parisian women, in my opinion. They seem to understand how to do this without looking like it adds too much bulk.

5. Add In A Subtle Statement Piece

Parisian women often add a small, unexpected twist—a bold red lip, a silk scarf, or minimalist gold jewelry. These touches keep the look from feeling too serious or monotonous.

6. Use Accessories As A Focal Point

Accessories are used to tie the look together. A black leather belt or shoes paired with a navy outfit reinforces the mix of the two colors, while items like a navy scarf or bag can create balance when the outfit leans heavily toward black.

Navy Blue and Black Outfit Ideas Together Like A Parisian

Here are 10 outfit combinations to help inspire how to wear navy blue and black together like a Parisian. These outfit combinations can be considered casual or dressy and can easily be worn during any season with some simple swapping out of pieces.

Navy Blazer + Sweater + Black Denim

Graphic of navy blue blazer with black jeans and boots.

Navy and black may seem like a daring combination, but Parisian women have long embraced this pairing as the epitome of understated chic. This outfit blends timeless staples: a structured navy blazer, a cozy navy sweater, and classic black denim into a look that feels both polished and effortlessly cool.

The gold-button detailing on the blazer adds a subtle touch of elegance, while sleek black ankle boots and a minimal black bag tie the ensemble together. Paired with simple gold hoops, this navy-and-black outfit proves that French style is all about refined contrasts and confidence, turning two ā€œneutralsā€ into a sophisticated and modern fall uniform.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy Wool Coat + Black Sweater + Black Denim

Graphic of black denim with navy coat and sweater.

This look is the perfect example of how French women master the art of wearing navy and black together with elegance and ease. A classic navy wool coat instantly elevates the outfit, giving structure and sophistication to a simple black sweater and straight-leg black denim.

Pointed-toe black pumps elongate the silhouette, while the quilted black Saint Laurent bag with gold chain detailing adds a luxurious Parisian touch. Paired with understated diamond studs, this combination proves that navy and black are not only compatible but also timeless when styled with clean lines and minimal accessories.

It’s the kind of polished yet effortless ensemble Parisian women reach for on crisp fall days.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy Barn Coat + Black Sweater + Denim + Ballet Flats

Graphic of black denim with navy coat and ballet flats.

This outfit shows how to wear navy and black together in a way that feels casual yet distinctly Parisian. A navy barn coat adds a touch of effortless sophistication, perfectly balancing structure with everyday ease, while wide-leg black denim creates a flattering and modern silhouette.

The pairing of simple black Mary Jane flats and a minimalist black shoulder bag keeps the look grounded and practical, ideal for city walks or cafƩ mornings. Gold hoop earrings and chic black sunglasses provide just the right amount of polish, proving that French women know how to elevate even the most relaxed pieces into something timeless.

This ensemble is a masterclass in mixing navy and black for a chic, wearable uniform.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy Dress + Black Boots

Graphic of navy dress with tall black boots.

A navy dress paired with tall black boots is one of the easiest ways to embrace the navy-and-black color pairing like a true Parisian. The simplicity of a classic navy dress creates a timeless foundation, while sleek black knee-high boots add structure and a touch of understated edge.

This combination strikes a perfect balance between femininity and sophistication, making it suitable for everything from a day at the office to a chic evening out. French women often rely on this pairing because it feels effortless yet elevated; minimal accessories are needed when the colors and silhouettes do the work.

It’s a versatile look that transitions seamlessly through the colder months, embodying the refined ease of Parisian style.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy Silk Blouse + Black Denim + Loafers

Graphic of black denim with navy top and loafers.

This outfit captures the effortless elegance of how Parisian women combine navy and black. A navy button-down blouse paired with sleek black denim creates a streamlined foundation that feels both polished and relaxed.

Black loafers add a timeless, menswear-inspired touch, while a structured black bag with gold hardware ties the look together with subtle sophistication.

The addition of a black belt and bold gold earrings elevates the outfit, proving that minimal details can make a simple combination feel chic and intentional. This look is a perfect everyday uniform that blends comfort with French-inspired style.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy T-shirt + Black Denim + Basket Bag

Graphic of navy t-shirt with black jeans and basket bag.

This outfit is a perfect example of how to wear navy and black together in a casual yet elevated Parisian way. A simple navy t-shirt pairs effortlessly with wide-leg black denim, striking that balance between relaxed and polished. Black leather slide sandals keep the look chic but comfortable, while oversized black sunglasses add a touch of French nonchalance.

A woven market tote softens the darker tones and adds a seasonal, practical element. Finished with a bold red lip, this outfit captures the essence of French girl style: minimal, timeless, and effortlessly chic.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy Blazer + Stripe Top + Black Denim

Graphic of navy blue blazer with stripe shirt and black jeans.

This outfit is the definition of French chic, showing exactly how to wear navy and black together in a timeless way. A navy blazer instantly sharpens the look, layered over a striped mariniĆØre top that adds that quintessential Parisian touch.

Black straight-leg denim grounds the outfit, while navy ankle boots create a seamless transition that feels sleek and modern. A structured black leather bag with gold accents and bold gold jewelry adds polish, while oversized black sunglasses complete the effortless vibe.

This combination proves that with the right balance of classics, navy and black can feel both sophisticated and striking, just the way Parisian women style it.

SHOP THE LOOK

Black Coat + Navy Dress + Slingbacks

Graphic of navy blue trench with black dress and slingbacks.

However, you choose to wear these colors together and embrace them. This can be an incredibly elegant and chic look. Next time, you are wondering about wearing these two colors together, try it out and see what you think. You will look like a Parisian in no time.

This outfit is a refined take on how to wear navy and black together in a way that feels effortlessly Parisian. A tailored navy shirt dress creates a flattering, feminine silhouette, while a sleek black coat layered over the top adds structure and warmth. Black slingback heels and a sophisticated black clutch with gold detailing bring polish, making this look perfect for evenings out or elegant daytime occasions.

SHOP THE LOOK

Black Sweater + Navy Pants + Loafer

Graphic of navy pants with black sweater and loafers.

This outfit is a sleek demonstration of how navy and black can be worn together with Parisian elegance. The pairing of wide-leg navy trousers with a classic black sweater creates a refined contrast that feels both modern and timeless.

Polished black loafers with gold detailing and a structured black handbag elevate the look, while diamond studs and oversized black sunglasses add just the right amount of chic sophistication.

The finishing touch, a bold red lip, infuses that signature French confidence, proving that even the simplest pieces can make a powerful style statement when styled the Parisian way.

SHOP THE LOOK

Navy Silk Skirt + Black Sweater + Tall Boots

Graphic of navy blue and black skirt and tall boots.

This look is a chic example of how Parisian women mix navy and black for an elegant, modern outfit. A black knit sweater provides a sleek and structured top half, while the navy satin slip skirt, also this Quince option, adds movement and a touch of femininity.

Tall black boots elongate the silhouette, grounding the look with classic French sophistication. A minimalist black leather tote and oversized sunglasses give it that effortless, everyday Parisian vibe, while bold gold earrings add just the right amount of polish.

This combination proves that navy and black together can be both versatile and refined, perfect for fall dressing in the city.

SHOP THE LOOK

This post contains affiliate links, should you make a purchase I will make a small commission, MERCI.

Read the Comments +

  1. Dana says:

    How about black chinos with navy slip on sneakers?

  2. Gloria says:

    How about a navy paisley and black jacket..is that ok

  3. Susan in TX says:

    Love this post and the jump to Emmanuelle Alt. She is my style muse…or at least one of them. I have two favorite outfits in navy/black. Casual favorite is black sweater with dark wash indigo jeans. ā€œDressierā€ favorite is navy silk tee with navy slim-straight ankle pants and a coated back denim jean jacket. I still find this combo hard to pull together but love it when it works.

  4. Michelle Hamric says:

    I just found your blog this evening and was so excited to find it. I’m a Francophile who lives in Springfield, Missouri. I adore everything French. French chic style takes my breath away. It’s just the best of the best!

    Recently, I’ve started wearing navy and black together. I’m loving it and can’t figure out why Americans have had the long standing rule of no navy with black. It always seemed strange to me. I’m also wearing chocolate brown with navy and also chocolate brown with black. So far no one has accused me of looking horrendous! LOL I’ll be 68 on 7 December so perhaps I’ve become more adventuresome with age.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

an invitation to explore the city with intention & ease

to Paris

your essential guide

Inside this thoughtfully curated 117-page guide, you’ll find my personal recommendations—favorite spots, must-visit shops, charming cafĆ©s, insider tips, and hidden gems—that capture the timeless elegance of Paris. Designed to help you move beyond the tourist-packed itineraries, this guide is all about savoring the beauty and allure of the city in a way that feels effortlessly authentic. Start your Paris journey today!

READ          LATEST

the

The Blog Playlist

In The Mood For...

French Fashion

Packing Tips

Lifestyle

Beauty

Travel

Favorites                Shop

What you've loved from my ShopMy storefront this month.

from le

A Parisian-inspired one-page style guide for effortless, everyday dressing

dress like a french woman

Whether you're packing for a trip to Paris or simply desire to adopt the undeniably chic essence of the French woman, this guide shows you that choosing fewer but more intentional pieces is the key to both an iconic wardrobe and a lighter suitcase.

 with fewer, more intentional pieces

Follow

Inspired by classically chic French women who value quality over quantity, La Vie On Grand, which was created to help you feel effortlessly elegant – at any age.

instagram

substack

tiktok

pinterest

Follow

Inspired by classically chic French women who value quality over quantity, La Vie On Grand, which was created to help you feel effortlessly elegant – at any age.

instagram

substack

tiktok

pinterest