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 Blue Maxi Dress Iridescent Sequin Dress Bustier Maxi Dress Lulus ELI5:Why does this dress appear white gold to some people and black blue to others? : r explainlikeimfive Photo finally solves the black and blue white and gold dress debate 1920s Beaded Mable Flapper Dress Black & Gold Optical illusion renews blue and black dress debate nine years on Express.co.uk