Black is timeless. It’s professional, powerful, dramatic — a color that commands attention. But ubiquity can also breed predictability. What if there was a color with the same stately effect as black, but fresher, and slightly less expected? Turns out, there is, and you probably already own it. Enter: navy.
According to fashion — and where we get all of our news these days: TikTok — navy is quickly supplanting black. Fall 2024 runways were a tidal wave of navy, making up 11% of Louis Vuitton’s collection, 25% of Miu Miu’s, and a whopping 33% of Coach’s. If recent trends (Leopard print, the Mob Wife aesthetic, and the suede revival) are anything to go by, it’s only a matter of time before we see this fashion shift bleed over as a new home decor color trend, too.
Navy feels less severe, softer, richer — what the chronically online call “Old Money." Where black can feel urbane and all-business, navy suggests leisure, luxury, and prep. “Navy is such a great shade as it can act both as a neutral and as a pop of color, depending on how it is styled,” says Valerie Stafford, partner and lead designer at Rumor Designs. Still, if you’re a black devotee, don’t worry. Valerie assures us that navy and black can coexist beautifully: "It's all about balance and making sure you have your common thread throughout the space, without making things overwhelming.”
Even as a committed black-loving New Yorker myself, I’m feeling compelled to bring this dark-hued alternative into my home. Navy has earned its spot as honorary color of the year—a versatile, moody alternative that’s like black yet entirely its own. Here's where to shop the look.
Price: $39, Was: $49.95
Sleek and sophisticated in petrol blue, this handblown glass decanter makes a statement whether filled with your favorite spirit or sitting empty. It adds sculptural appeal to shelves and bar carts, but if you’re extra fancy like myself, try using it for mouthwash.
Price: $17.99
Say goodbye to basic candles! These playful, bulbous forms elevate even the simplest candlestick holders. For a design-forward navy living room idea, try pairing them with merlot or go bold with shiny chrome.
Price: $79
Feeling stressed? Put a weight on it — and let your worries fade. Bearaby has mastered this simple yet effective technique with their relaxing Melofoam™ pillows, ideal for any R&R spot, be it the couch, an oversized armchair, or your bed. Onlookers will admire the chic, knotted cushion, none the wiser of its little secret.
Price: $259, Was: $279
Coming in hot under $300, this modern living room side table made of real marble is the steal of the season. With a rich navy surface laced with delicate black veins, it’s perfect for bridging black accents like a lamp or vase. Or, if you're after bold colors that go with navy blue, add a pop of terracotta for extra warmth.
Price: $55
Two stripe-loving entities — Brooklinen and KULE — recently joined forces for a playful collaboration. The navy colorway is a standout, adding a dapper twist to your usual white towels. Try rolling them in a countertop basket or draping them over a towel rack in the guest bath to send a subtle message: style is your strong suit.
Price: $780
High-end fashion brand Khaite found an equally luxurious partner in GINORI 1735 for its first-ever foray into homeware. You’ll notice subtle sartorial cues — for example, rippled edges inspired by the pleats and ruffled hems of the brand's RTW collections. Looks fabulous against black marble countertops.
@databutmakeitfashion ♬ BLUE - Billie Eilish
