The actual dress was black and blue. The confusion came from how lighting and color perception tricked people's brains, making some see it as white and gold. It became a viral example I See White and Gold, but the Dress Taught Me How We Shape Our Own Reality by Shaant A Culturated Medium SONYA Blue Midi Cocktail Dress With Butterfly Sleeves Solid Color Sweetheart Lace Butterfly Sleeve A line Vintage Party Dress, Navy XL