Navy Blue
General Information about Navy Blue (#001088)
The hex color #001088, commonly known as Navy Blue, is a deep, saturated shade of blue with a strong presence. It is composed of 0% red, 6.3% green, and 53.3% blue. In the RGB color model, it is represented as (0, 16, 136). Navy Blue evokes feelings of trust, stability, and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and websites. The color derives its name from the dark blue worn by officers in the British Royal Navy since 1748 and subsequently adopted by other navies worldwide. This historical connection lends the color an air of sophistication and tradition. It is often associated with professionalism, reliability, and a sense of calm. In design, navy blue provides a versatile backdrop that can be paired with various colors to create different moods and effects.
The color #001088, a deep navy blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value means insufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds, making text and UI elements difficult to read. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This navy blue is unlikely to meet these standards when paired with many common background colors. To improve accessibility, consider using it with very light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or light yellow (#FFFFE0) to maximize contrast. Alternatively, implementing text shadows or borders can also help improve readability. Avoid pairing this color with similar dark shades, as the lack of contrast will render content virtually invisible to many users, especially those with low vision or color blindness. Testing color combinations with accessibility evaluation tools is crucial to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #0021a5
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against light backgrounds while maintaining a professional look.
- #333333
A dark gray that can be used as a more accessible alternative to navy blue, offering better readability.
- #003399
This color is a more vibrant alternative that offers better contrast for users with low vision.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, navy blue can serve as a primary color for websites aiming to convey trust, stability, and professionalism, like corporate sites or banking platforms. It can be used for backgrounds, headers, and buttons to create a consistent and calming visual experience. However, careful consideration should be given to text color choices to ensure adequate contrast for readability. Complementary colors like light yellows or whites can be used for text and accents to enhance visual appeal and maintain accessibility standards. Furthermore, the color can be applied to website elements such as progress bars and data visualization charts.
Interior Design
In interior design, navy blue can be applied to walls in bedrooms or studies to create a serene and focused atmosphere. It works well when paired with lighter colors like beige, cream, or white for furniture and accents to balance the dark hue. Navy blue can also be incorporated through textiles like curtains, cushions, and rugs to add depth and sophistication to a room. Metallic accents such as gold or silver can further enhance the luxurious feel. Avoid using navy blue in small rooms without ample natural light, as it can make the space feel cramped and dark. Consider using it for accent walls or larger rooms to maximize its impact.
Fashion
In fashion, navy blue is a versatile color that can be used for various clothing items, from suits and dresses to casual wear like jeans and sweaters. It serves as a classic alternative to black, offering a softer yet sophisticated look. Navy blue pairs well with a range of colors, including white, gray, red, and yellow, allowing for diverse styling options. It is often used in professional settings for its understated elegance and can also be dressed down for more casual occasions. Accessories in contrasting colors can add personality and visual interest to a navy blue outfit. It can be used for creating a nautical look too.