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. Its unique characteristic is its intense purity and vividness. Klein registered this color as a trademark in 1957, although the trademark was never enforced. Chemically, IKB is a synthetic ultramarine pigment. The color's visual impact stems from its ability to evoke a sense of depth and boundlessness, making it a favorite in modern and contemporary art. IKB is created by suspending pure color pigment in a clear synthetic resin, which allows the pigment to maintain its brilliance. This particular shade of blue is often associated with concepts of spirituality and the infinite, reflecting Klein's own artistic philosophies. The color has since been adopted in various design fields, including fashion, interior design, and graphic design, often symbolizing innovation and creativity.
The hex color #0028bf, also known as International Klein Blue, presents accessibility challenges due to its deep hue. When used as a background color, it requires careful consideration of the foreground text color to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between the text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Using white or light yellow text on an International Klein Blue background can provide adequate contrast. However, it's essential to test the color combination with accessibility tools to confirm compliance, especially for users with visual impairments. Overreliance on this intense blue can also be fatiguing for some users, so consider using it sparingly or in combination with lighter, more neutral colors to improve the overall user experience. Meaningful visual information should never rely on color alone, and alternative cues should be provided, such as labels or patterns.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
International Klein Blue can be used to create bold and eye-catching designs. It's often used in logos, branding, and website headers to convey a sense of sophistication and creativity. However, it should be balanced with more neutral colors to prevent visual overload. On websites, it works well for buttons or to highlight important information.
Fashion Design
In the fashion industry, International Klein Blue can be used for statement pieces, such as dresses, jackets, or accessories. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, black, or gray, as well as other bold colors like yellow or red. It can also be incorporated into patterns and prints to add a pop of color.
Interior Design
International Klein Blue can be used in interior design as an accent color to add depth and visual interest to a room. It can be used on walls, furniture, or accessories, such as pillows or curtains. It works well in modern and minimalist spaces, as well as in more eclectic designs. It can also be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver to create a luxurious feel.