Smalt
General Information About Smalt (#01369A)
#01369A, commonly known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue within the azure color family. Smalt derives its name from the finely ground potassium glass containing cobalt, used historically as a pigment for paintings, ceramics, and other decorative arts. In the RGB color model, #01369A is composed of 0.4% red, 21.2% green, and 60.4% blue. Converting it to the CMYK color model yields 99% cyan, 64% magenta, 0% yellow, and 39% black. This hexadecimal color is often associated with qualities such as trustworthiness, intelligence, and loyalty. In color psychology, blue tones generally evoke a sense of calm and security, making #01369A a popular choice for branding and design elements that aim to project these values.
The hex color #01369A, also known as Smalt, presents several accessibility considerations, especially in web design. Its dark hue necessitates careful selection of foreground text and elements to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text and graphical elements. Therefore, when using #01369A as a background, it's crucial to pair it with light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray to meet these standards. Insufficient contrast can significantly impair readability for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. Additionally, avoid using #01369A as the sole indicator for interactive elements; provide supplementary cues like underlines or icons to enhance usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Development
In web development, #01369A can serve as a primary color for website headers, navigation bars, and button backgrounds. Its deep, rich tone evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism, making it suitable for corporate websites, financial institutions, and educational platforms. However, due to its darkness, it's essential to use it sparingly and pair it with lighter colors to maintain readability and visual balance. Consider using it for accent elements to draw attention without overwhelming the user interface. The color could be perfect for a night-theme design, paired with a light accent color.
Interior Design
In interior design, #01369A can be used as an accent color in wall paint, furniture upholstery, or decorative accessories. Its calming yet sophisticated nature makes it ideal for creating a serene and inviting atmosphere in bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Pair it with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white to create a balanced and harmonious space. Alternatively, introduce pops of complementary colors like orange or yellow to add visual interest and create a more dynamic environment. Consider using it for textiles such as throw pillows, rugs, or curtains to add depth and texture to the room.
Fashion
In fashion, #01369A can be incorporated into clothing designs, accessories, or footwear. Its versatility allows it to be worn in both formal and casual settings, depending on the garment and styling. A #01369A blazer or dress can convey confidence and professionalism, while a #01369A scarf or handbag can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Pair it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic and timeless look, or experiment with bolder colors like red or green to create a more striking and contemporary ensemble.