LBDs Aren't Out, But in 2026, This High-Value Dress Color Feels Far More In
One thing about me is that I'm a dress person. When I'm not wearing jeans, you can definitely find me in a one-and-done piece, especially a simple silhouette that fits close to the body and is easy to build any outfit around. Think of styles similar to Carrie Bradshaw's iconic gray minidress from Sex and the City. One person who shares my sentiment is Emily Ratajkowski. While I don't know her, I've been following and writing about her street style for many years, so I do know that she loves no-frills dresses—from beige minis to black midi dresses with cutouts. In 2026, though, she's making the case for navy-blue midi dresses.
For the premiere of The Last Day during the Tribeca Film Festival, EmRata was spotted in NYC wearing a navy dress from Mango. The midi silhouette featured a round neck and an asymmetrical open back. To complete the look, EmRata opted for open-toe, heeled brown mules, creating a very elevated, warm-weather-friendly outfit. Her oversize sunglasses and chain-embellished shoulder bag grounded the ensemble.
On Emily Ratajkowski: Mango Asymmetrical Open-Back Dress ($100)
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Honestly, I've never considered buying a navy-blue dress, but after seeing it on EmRata, I'm sold. The color is just as neutral as black but has a richer appeal because it has more depth. It also feels unexpected, which is the key distinction between an outfit that looks good and one that looks elegant in 2026.
Remember, LBDs aren't out, but if EmRata inspires you, keep scrolling. Ahead, discover and shop my edit of the best navy-blue midi dresses.
Get EmRata's Look
MANGO
Asymmetrical Open-Back Dress
This dress shows the right amount of skin.
Endless styling possibilities.
THISTLES
The Atlas D-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
Jennifer Lawrence owns these.
Shop Navy-Blue Dresses
Nordstrom
Side Ruched Knit Midi Dress
Re-create EmRata's look with this ruched dress.
Wear it with or without the scarf.
CAROLINA HERRERA
Ruched Ruffled Cotton-Blend Midi Dress
Wes Gordon, Carolina Herrera's creative director, understands what the modern woman wants to wear.
Zw Collection
Draped Midi Dress
VICTORIA BECKHAM
Bela Gathered Satin Midi Dress
Victoria Beckham makes the best dresses.
I love this polished silhouette.
