Smalt
General Information about #003498 (Smalt)
The hexadecimal color #003498, commonly referred to as Smalt, is a deep, rich shade of blue within the RGB color model. It is composed of 0% red, 20.4% green, and 59.6% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 100% cyan, 65.7% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40.4% black. This color is often associated with qualities such as trust, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional designs. Its depth and intensity evoke a sense of seriousness and authority. Smalt, historically, was a pigment made by grinding cobalt glass to a fine powder, and it has been used in various forms of art and decoration for centuries. In modern usage, #003498 provides a digital equivalent, preserving its aesthetic appeal in a wide range of applications.
The color #003498, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Due to its dark hue, it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for text to be easily discernible. A light-colored text, such as white (#FFFFFF) or a very light gray, would be necessary to achieve an acceptable contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #003498 for interactive elements like buttons or links, it's equally important to provide clear visual cues for focus states, such as a contrasting border or background change, to assist users who rely on keyboard navigation. Failure to address these accessibility concerns can result in a poor user experience and exclusion of individuals with disabilities.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Web Design
In web design, #003498 can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look. It's well-suited for headers, navigation bars, and accents where a sense of depth and authority is desired. The color evokes trust and stability, making it a great choice for financial institutions or corporate websites. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with lighter shades for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be combined with complementary colors to add visual interest and balance to the overall design.
Interior Design
In interior design, #003498 can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. The color can be used as an accent wall or for furniture upholstery. To balance the darkness of the color, it should be paired with lighter shades of blue or gray. Accents of gold or brass can add a touch of luxury and warmth to the space. Use it sparingly as too much dark blue can make a room feel smaller and less inviting.
Fashion Design
In the fashion world, #003498 adds a touch of elegance and formality. It is suitable for evening wear and professional attire. As a deep and calming color, it pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white. Additionally, incorporating metallic accessories or complementary colors like gold or yellow can enhance the sophistication of an outfit. It's a versatile color that can make a bold statement while maintaining an air of understated style. For accessories, consider scarves or ties to add a pop of color to a more neutral outfit.