International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue, often referred to as IKB, is a deep blue hue first mixed by the French artist Yves Klein. It is renowned for its intense saturation and visual impact. Klein registered this color as a trademark to preserve its unique identity and ensure its association with his artistic creations. The color is achieved through a specific formula involving a synthetic ultramarine pigment suspended in a resin binder, which maintains the pigment's purity and brilliance. IKB is not only visually striking but also significant in art history, representing Klein's exploration of pure color as a means of conveying emotion and spirituality. Its unique properties have made it a captivating choice for artists and designers seeking a distinctive and powerful blue.
The hex color #001db4, also known as International Klein Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in web design. Its deep, saturated hue results in very low contrast when paired with lighter colors like white or yellow. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. Text or interactive elements rendered in #001db4 against a white background may fail to meet the minimum contrast ratio requirements, making them difficult to perceive. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to color pairings. It is recommended to use #001db4 sparingly for decorative elements or to combine it with very light hues to meet accessibility standards. Testing color combinations with accessibility tools is essential to ensure compliance and inclusivity for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website accents
International Klein Blue can be used as an accent color in website design to draw attention to specific elements or buttons. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text and background colors to maintain accessibility. Due to its intensity, it is best used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user.
Fashion accents
This color can be used in fashion to create striking and bold statements. Consider using it for accessories or statement pieces rather than entire outfits, as its intensity can be overwhelming. When incorporating it into designs, consider contrasting it with neutral colors or using it as a pop of color against a darker palette. The color is a great statement for shoes, bags or scarfs.
Interior Design
International Klein Blue is perfect for statement walls in modern interiors, infusing spaces with energy and depth. For balanced aesthetics, combine it with neutral hues like white or gray, ensuring the vibrancy complements rather than overpowers the overall design. This approach highlights architectural details while maintaining a calming atmosphere, making it suitable for living rooms or creative studios.