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 Formal Guide: How to Choose an Elegant Black Tie Evening Dress Lulus.com Fashion Blog Why the #whatcoloristhisdress frock is actually blue and black CNET Science explains how time spent outdoors colors your view of #thedress Los Angeles Times