The dress 10 years later: Is viral dress black and blue or white and gold? kgw.com 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've been thinking about "the dress" for 10 years. Here's what I've learned. The Dress Gold White Blue Black Etsy Sparkling Royal Blue Mermaid Blue Sparkly Prom Dress with Gold Sequins and Beaded Crystal Embellishments for Black Women Perfect for Birthday