International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
The hex color #012ab3, often referred to as International Klein Blue (IKB), is a deep and intense shade of blue. It is a pure, ultramarine blue that possesses a remarkable depth and luminosity. This color is named after the French artist Yves Klein, who patented the unique formulation in 1960. IKB is achieved by suspending ultramarine pigment in a synthetic resin, which allows the color to retain its brilliance and intensity. In the RGB color model, #012ab3 is composed of 0.4% red, 16.9% green, and 70.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 99% cyan, 76% magenta, 0% yellow, and 30% black. This gives it a distinctive place in the color spectrum.
The hex color #012ab3, a deep shade of blue, presents accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low lightness value necessitates careful consideration of contrast ratios when used for text or interactive elements. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is required for normal text and 3:1 for large text against its background. Therefore, when employing #012ab3, pairing it with light colors like white (#ffffff) or very light grays is crucial to ensure readability and usability. It's recommended to use contrast checking tools to verify compliance with accessibility standards. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey information, and provide alternative cues such as text labels or icons. Employing ARIA attributes can also enhance accessibility by providing additional semantic information to assistive technologies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #012ab3 can be used for creating a bold and professional look. It's suitable for headers, call-to-action buttons, or as a background color for sections where you want to create a strong visual impact. For instance, it can be used as the primary color for a tech company's website to convey reliability and innovation. However, care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast with text and other elements to maintain readability and accessibility. Use it in conjunction with lighter accents to create a balanced and visually appealing design.
Fashion
In fashion, #012ab3 can be used in clothing or accessories to create a sophisticated and elegant statement. It can be a powerful color for evening wear, or used as an accent color in more casual outfits. Because it is a strong color, it pairs well with neutrals. A dress in this hue could be paired with silver jewelry or black shoes for a timeless look. Think of it as the base of a power suit, or in the lining of a jacket, or even as the color for a striking pair of boots.
Interior Design
For interior design, this shade of blue can be used to add depth and drama to a room. It is suitable for accent walls, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories such as vases or throw pillows. It works particularly well in spaces where you want to create a sense of calm and serenity, such as bedrooms or studies. When using this color in interior design, it's important to balance it with lighter colors and natural materials to prevent the space from feeling too dark or heavy. Use the color in a room with high natural light, or offset the color with yellow light.