International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue (IKB), represented by the hexadecimal color code #0029ab, is a deep ultramarine blue hue renowned for its intensity and purity. It was developed by the French artist Yves Klein in collaboration with a Parisian paint supplier, and officially patented in 1957. Klein sought to capture the purest expression of blue, believing it conveyed a sense of boundless space and spiritual depth. IKB achieves its unique visual impact through a high concentration of pigment and a synthetic resin binder that suspends the pigment particles, maintaining their brilliance. Due to its captivating aesthetic, IKB has been widely adopted in art, design, and fashion, symbolizing creativity, innovation, and a quest for the sublime.
The hex color #0029ab, also known as International Klein Blue (IKB), presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Due to its deep, saturated nature and relatively low luminance, it can be difficult to read text displayed in this color against a light background, or conversely, light text against an IKB background. To ensure good accessibility, it's essential to use a color contrast checker to verify that the contrast ratio between the text and background meets WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using IKB, consider pairing it with very light or very dark colors to achieve sufficient contrast. Furthermore, provide alternative visual cues or text descriptions for users who may have difficulty perceiving the color due to color blindness or other visual impairments. Thoughtful consideration of color contrast and alternative cues will ensure a more inclusive and accessible experience for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
International Klein Blue (IKB) can be used to create visually striking web designs, particularly for brands seeking a modern and artistic aesthetic. It can be incorporated into website headers, call-to-action buttons, and graphic elements to draw attention and create a sense of depth and sophistication. It's a bold choice, but also use it sparingly to avoid overwhelming the user and always prioritize accessibility by ensuring sufficient contrast with text and other elements. Use IKB as an accent color can add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to a website's overall design.
Interior Design Accent
In the realm of interior design, IKB can serve as a statement color, lending a space a contemporary and artistic touch. A single accent wall painted in IKB can transform a room, creating a focal point that draws the eye. Complement the boldness of IKB with neutral furniture and decor to balance the visual impact. Alternatively, incorporate IKB through smaller decorative elements like vases, cushions, or artwork to add pops of color without overwhelming the space. The intense depth of IKB evokes a sense of sophistication and creativity, making it well-suited for spaces designed to inspire.
Fashion and branding
In fashion, IKB can be used as an accent color in clothing, for example in scarfs or t-shirts. It can also be used for branding to make the brand stand out.