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 Woman discovers the iconic 'Optical Illusion Dress' that went viral in 2015 at yard sale Times of India Vintage Blue 1950s Short Cocktail Prom Dresses Knee Length Cinderella Party Gown eBay Smocked Bodice Square Neck Long Sleeve Dress for Women Knee Length 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 Black and Blue or White and Gold? How Your Brain Sees 'the Dress' Business Insider