Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue
Catalina Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #002977, is a deep and rich shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its strong presence and depth. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0% red, 16.1% green, and 46.7% blue. This composition gives it a distinctive and sophisticated appearance, making it suitable for various design applications where a sense of authority or tranquility is desired. The color is often associated with trust, stability, and professionalism, making it popular in corporate branding and visual communication. Its CMYK values are C:100 M:65 Y:0 K:53, which defines the amount of cyan, magenta, yellow and black ink required to produce the color in print. Catalina Blue is known for its ability to evoke feelings of calmness and security, making it a versatile choice for diverse creative projects.
The hex color #002977, also known as Catalina Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its low lightness value of approximately 9% means that it offers very little contrast against dark backgrounds. Therefore, it's crucial to pair it with light colors to ensure readability and usability. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is essential for users with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. When using #002977 for text, a very light color such as white (#FFFFFF) or a light shade of yellow (#FFFFE0) is necessary to meet these guidelines. For interactive elements like buttons or links, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a contrasting color for the background to provide clear visual cues. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can help evaluate the contrast ratio and ensure compliance with accessibility standards, promoting inclusive design practices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter blue that provides better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, making it more versatile for various design elements.
- #808080
A shade of gray provides a neutral alternative that pairs well with Catalina Blue while ensuring good readability as text.
- #6495ed
A lighter shade of blue offering improved visibility and accessibility, suitable for interactive elements and text.
Applications
Web Development
In web development, Catalina Blue (#002977) can be employed to establish a sense of depth and sophistication. It serves well for header backgrounds or as an accent color in a minimalist design. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired thoughtfully with lighter shades to ensure readability and accessibility. For instance, using it for website headers with white or light gray text can create an appealing contrast. The color can be used for buttons, but paired with a hover state that lightens the color for better visibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Catalina Blue is often used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It can be applied to accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, or used in furniture upholstery to add a touch of elegance. It is particularly effective when complemented with lighter, warmer colors like beige or cream to balance the coolness of the blue. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing a sense of tranquility in the space.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Catalina Blue can be used in garments for a powerful statement, especially in evening wear and formal attire. The color conveys confidence and sophistication and works well with both silver and gold accessories. It is perfect for creating a bold and memorable look. It can also be used as an accent color in casual wear, like in trims or accessories, to add a touch of elegance to everyday outfits. The color can be used for creating a business look in suits and blouses.