Navy Color: HEX Code, RGB and Meaning
Navy is a very dark blue that sits close to black but keeps a clear blue cast.
HEX is one common value Last updated:
#01153Ergb(1, 21, 62)hsl(220, 97%, 12%)cmyk(98%, 66%, 0%, 76%)Color definitions vary by source. The HEX above is one common value for "navy" from the open color-name-list dataset, not an official standard. CMYK is a simple conversion; printed results depend on ink and paper.
What navy means
Navy is the color of quiet authority. It has the trustworthiness of blue and the seriousness of a dark neutral, so it looks professional without the starkness of black. Uniforms, suits and corporate identities all make use of that balance.
It is also a forgiving color. Navy is dark enough to hide wear and busy enough to avoid looking flat, which makes it one of the most practical dark shades.
Tints and shades of navy
Lighter tints are made by mixing with white and darker shades by mixing with black. Click a swatch to copy its HEX.
Navy color palettes
Complementary
Two colors opposite each other on the color wheel: the strongest contrast.
Analogous
Three neighbors on the wheel: a smooth, low-contrast scheme.
Triadic
Three colors evenly spaced around the wheel: lively but balanced.
Colors that go with navy
- White (#FFFFFF): A sharp, nautical classic.
- Coral (#FF7F50): A warm accent that lifts navy.
- Camel (#C69F59): A rich, sophisticated neutral.
- Gold (#FFD700): Formal and traditional.
Similar named colors
Where navy is used
- Fashion. Navy is the go-to alternative to black in suits, blazers, coats and knitwear. It pairs with nearly every other color, from white and tan to pink and burgundy.
- Interiors. Navy walls, cabinets and sofas create depth and a sense of enclosure. Warm wood, brass and white trim keep a navy room from feeling cold.
- Branding. Banks, airlines, law firms and software companies use navy as a stable, trustworthy base color.
Navy vs midnight blue
Midnight blue is darker and more inky than navy, almost black with a blue sheen. Navy is a touch lighter and keeps more of its blue.
The navy in this dataset is already very dark, so the two sit near each other. The web color of the same name is a much brighter blue, a reminder to check the swatch when matching.
Frequently asked questions
What color is navy?
A very dark blue, sometimes with a slight purple or gray cast.
Is navy the same as black?
No, but in low light they can look similar. Navy shows a clear blue tone in daylight.
What goes with navy?
White, camel, coral, pink and gold are all reliable partners.
Why is navy so common in uniforms and suits?
It looks smart, hides stains and wear, and flatters many people. These are practical reasons rather than a rule.