Blue Whale
General Information about #012A4A
The hex color #012A4A, also known as Blue Whale, is a dark shade of blue. It's composed of 0.4% red, 16.5% green, and 29% blue. In the RGB color model, it's represented as (1, 42, 74). In the CMYK color model, used for printing, its approximate composition is 99% cyan, 43% magenta, 0% yellow, and 71% black. This color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and professionalism. Dark blue hues are frequently used in corporate branding to convey trustworthiness and reliability. Its hexadecimal representation allows for precise color specification in digital design and web development. Understanding its RGB and CMYK values is crucial for ensuring accurate color reproduction across different media.
The hex color #012a4a, also known as Blue Whale, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, the minimum contrast ratio for normal text is 4.5:1, and for large text, it's 3:1. This dark blue hue may require a very light background (e.g., shades of white or very pale yellow) to meet these standards. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be used to verify compliance. Employing techniques such as adding a subtle text shadow or using a slightly lighter shade of blue if possible, can improve readability and usability for individuals with visual impairments. Careful consideration of color combinations is essential to provide an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #29648b
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used for backgrounds or text, providing a safe and accessible option.
- #add8e6
A pastel blue that works well as a background color, creating a calming and accessible design.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #012A4A can be used for website headers or navigation bars to create a professional and trustworthy feel. Due to its darkness, care must be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements. A good strategy is using it for larger headings with bold white text. Consider using it as an accent color in conjunction with lighter blues and grays to prevent the design from feeling too heavy. It evokes feelings of professionalism and trust, making it ideal for corporate websites and financial institutions.
Interior Design
In interior design, Blue Whale can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to add depth and sophistication to the space. It pairs well with light wood tones and metallic accents like gold or silver. Use it sparingly in smaller rooms, as its darkness can make the space feel smaller. Consider incorporating it into upholstery or decorative pillows to add pops of color without overwhelming the room.
Fashion
In fashion, this color can be used in formal wear such as suits, dresses or skirts to convey confidence. It also has application in casual wear, such as shirts, jackets, t-shirts or polo shirts. As an accent color, #012A4A can be used in shoes, bags, hats, scarves or jewelry. Consider combining it with brighter accent colors like mustard yellow or teal for a bolder statement.