Smalt
General Information about #003B99
The hexadecimal color code #003B99 represents a deep, rich shade of blue, often referred to as Smalt. This color is created by combining 0% red, 23.1% green, and 60% blue in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, which is commonly used for printing, it is composed of 100% cyan, 61.5% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This blue hue exudes a sense of sophistication, depth, and trustworthiness. It is often associated with concepts like knowledge, power, integrity, and seriousness, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aiming to convey stability and reliability. The color's intensity and depth make it visually appealing and versatile for various applications.
The color #003B99, a deep shade of blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. When used as a background color, it is crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the foreground text. A light color, such as white or a pale yellow, is recommended to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. Text colors like black or dark grays should be avoided on this background due to insufficient contrast, which can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. When used for interactive elements like buttons or links, providing clear visual cues, such as hover effects or focus indicators, is essential to enhance usability. It's important to assess color combinations with tools that evaluate contrast ratios to guarantee accessibility for all users, including those with color blindness or low vision.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #003B99 can be effectively used for navigation bars, headers, or as a background color for specific sections of a website. Its deep, calming hue provides a professional and trustworthy feel, making it suitable for corporate websites or educational platforms. When used for text, ensure it is paired with a light background to maintain readability and accessibility. Complementary colors like light yellows or oranges can be used for accents to create visual interest and balance. This color's association with authority makes it a strong choice for institutions and organizations seeking to project stability and expertise. It can also be used as a secondary color with white or other shades of blue to emphasize text or other elements.
Interior Design
In interior design, #003B99 can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It can be applied as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, paired with neutral furniture and light-colored decor to balance the richness of the blue. This shade works well with materials like wood, metal, and glass, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. It's a perfect choice for creating a serene and inviting space. It can also be used in bathrooms or studies to create a focused environment.
Fashion
In fashion, #003B99 is a versatile color that can be used in various ways. For evening wear, it can be used as an alternative to black providing sophistication and elegance. It can also be incorporated into casual wear such as jeans, shirts and jackets. Because of it's association with trust, it is also used in business attire. When used in combination with white it can provide a nautical theme.