Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, identified by the hex code #002C5D, is a deep, rich shade of blue. This color is a dark cyan-blue that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it consists of 0% red, 17.3% green, and 36.5% blue. It’s a color often associated with the military and formal attire, conveying a sense of authority and tradition. Prussian Blue has a long history, originating in the early 18th century as a synthetic pigment and quickly becoming a popular choice for artists due to its stability and vibrant hue. The name itself is derived from its historical use in Prussian military uniforms.
The hex color #002c5d, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents several accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Its low luminance value signifies that it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast between text and background is crucial. For text using #002c5d, a light color like white (#FFFFFF) or a light shade of yellow would be ideal to meet the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid pairing it with darker colors or shades too close to its luminance value, as this would render the text illegible for many users. Additionally, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as underlines or icons, when using this color to convey information, ensuring inclusivity for users who might have difficulty distinguishing colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #191970
Midnight Blue offers a similar dark, cool tone while providing a slightly lighter alternative that can improve readability in some contexts.
- #002147
Oxford Blue provides a sophisticated and serious tone, suitable for professional or academic designs, while being slightly more accessible.
- #031634
NCS S 9000-N provides a neutral darker shade similar to Prussian Blue and improves accessibility on brighter backgrounds.
Applications
Corporate Branding
Prussian Blue exudes sophistication and depth, making it an excellent choice for branding materials aimed at conveying trust and reliability. Its association with classic aesthetics renders it suitable for financial institutions, legal firms, or educational platforms seeking to establish a reputable image. In web design, this color can be utilized for headers, navigation bars, or background accents to create a sense of formality and professionalism. Furthermore, Prussian Blue can subtly enhance the user experience, guiding them through the site with its calming presence.
Interior Design
In interior design, Prussian Blue adds a touch of elegance and drama to living spaces. It works exceptionally well as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative elements, creating a focal point and enriching the overall aesthetic. This deep hue can be paired with neutral colors such as gray, beige, or white to create a balanced and harmonious atmosphere. Additionally, it complements natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the texture and warmth of the room.
Fashion
Prussian Blue is a timeless color in the realm of fashion, often associated with formal attire and classic styles. It lends itself well to evening wear, suits, and outerwear, exuding a sense of sophistication and confidence. In casual wear, Prussian Blue can be used to add a touch of elegance to everyday outfits, such as jeans, sweaters, or dresses. Its versatility makes it an appealing choice for both men's and women's fashion, allowing for effortless integration into various wardrobe styles.