Navy Blue
General Information about Navy Blue
The hex color #001177, commonly referred to as Navy Blue, is a dark shade of blue within the blue color family. It's composed of 0% red, 6.7% green, and 46.7% blue. In the RGB color space, this equates to R:0, G:17, and B:119. Navy Blue is often associated with concepts like authority, stability, and trustworthiness. It is a popular choice for corporate branding, government agencies, and educational institutions due to its professional and serious nature. Historically, navy blue has been used in naval uniforms, contributing to its association with maritime settings and naval power. Its presence in design evokes feelings of calmness, reliability, and sophistication. This color is used often in web design, beauty and fashion.
The hex color #001177, a deep navy blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low lightness value means it has inherently low contrast against common light backgrounds like white. This can make text and other elements difficult to read for users, especially those with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as defined by WCAG guidelines. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #001177 with very light colors like #FFFFFF or #F0F0F0 for sufficient contrast. Alternatively, using a lighter shade of blue, such as #3344AA, while maintaining a navy aesthetic, can also improve readability. Careful consideration of font sizes and weights can further enhance the legibility of text displayed in this color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #003399
A slightly lighter shade that still conveys the navy aesthetic but offers better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #000099
A more vibrant blue that provides a stronger visual presence while remaining in the blue color family.
- #334455
A desaturated navy that provides a softer visual impact while remaining in the blue color family.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #001177 can be utilized for header backgrounds and navigation bars to create a professional and trustworthy ambiance. It is suitable to use this color if the website represents topics like finance, law, technology, or education. Using it sparingly as an accent color can add depth and sophistication to a website's design. It is especially effective when paired with a contrasting color for text and interactive elements. Avoid overuse, especially in large blocks of text, due to potential readability issues.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, navy blue is frequently used for formal wear, business attire, and classic outerwear. Its versatility makes it easy to coordinate with various colors and styles. Navy blue is often favored for its ability to convey a sense of professionalism and elegance. Accessorizing with brighter colors like red or yellow can create a visually appealing contrast against the dark backdrop. Using this color will create a formal or professional look.
Interior Design
In interior design, navy blue can be employed to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. Pairing it with lighter neutrals like beige or gray can create a balanced and harmonious space. It is also suitable for creating nautical or coastal themes with other shades of blue and white. Using this color to create a room that feels formal and modern.