Smalt

General Information about #012E9A (Smalt)

The color #012E9A, also known as Smalt, is a deep and saturated shade of blue that evokes feelings of trust, authority, and intelligence. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its high level of saturation and relatively low brightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.4% red, 18% green, and 60.4% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 99% cyan, 71% magenta, 0% yellow, and 37% black. Smalt historically refers to a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. The color #012E9A is often associated with stability, confidence, and sophistication. Because of its depth, #012E9A is often used in branding and corporate design to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism, but it requires careful consideration with respect to accessibility.

The color #012E9A, a deep and saturated blue, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly regarding contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light foreground text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text, as per WCAG guidelines. Without sufficient contrast, users with visual impairments may struggle to distinguish text from the background. In interactive elements like buttons or links, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a complementary color like yellow to increase visibility and provide clear visual cues. Also, avoid using this color as the sole means of conveying information, as colorblind users may not be able to perceive it accurately. Providing alternative indicators, such as text labels or icons, is crucial for inclusive design. Proper color contrast is key to ensuring a positive user experience for all users.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, #012E9A can serve as a sophisticated background for headers or call-to-action sections, especially for sites aiming for a professional or academic feel. However, due to its depth, it should be paired with light, high-contrast text to ensure readability. It is also suitable for creating visually striking buttons and icons, provided sufficient contrast is maintained. This color can also be used to create an immersive user interface for software or applications with a specific theme, such as scientific or technical tools, but avoid overuse to prevent eye strain.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, #012E9A can be used as an accent wall color to add depth and sophistication to a room. It works well in studies or libraries, creating a calming and intellectual atmosphere. This color can also be used in smaller doses in furniture, such as chairs or cushions, to add a pop of color to a neutral space. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver, but should be balanced with lighter colors to avoid making the room feel too dark or oppressive.

• Fashion

  In fashion, #012E9A can be used as a statement color in clothing or accessories. A dress or suit in this color can exude confidence and professionalism, while accessories like scarves or handbags can add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. It pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. However, it should be used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the overall look. This color is also suitable for creating visually striking graphics and patterns for textiles and apparel.

Complementary color

Buttons