Catalina Blue
General Information about #013A80
The hex code #013A80 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as Catalina Blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.4% red, 22.7% green, and 50.2% blue. This color is frequently associated with feelings of calmness, trust, and stability, making it a popular choice for branding and visual communication in various industries. Catalina Blue falls under the category of cool colors, which tend to create a sense of tranquility and can be used to evoke feelings of serenity or professionalism. The color is frequently used for corporate branding. In web design, it can be effectively used for backgrounds, headers, or accents, especially when combined with lighter shades to create contrast and visual interest.
The color #013A80, also known as Catalina Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low lightness value of 11 means that text rendered in this color on a white background, or vice versa, may lack sufficient contrast for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Catalina Blue is unlikely to meet these standards against light backgrounds. To improve accessibility, consider using lighter shades of blue or pairing it with much lighter colors. Also, avoid using this color for essential UI elements without ensuring adequate contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the specific combination and make necessary adjustments to ensure that content is accessible to a wider audience, including individuals with low vision or color blindness. Also consider providing alternative visual cues besides color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
- #002d62
A slightly darker shade that still provides a similar aesthetic but may be more suitable for creating contrast with lighter elements.
- #0077cc
A brighter blue alternative to draw attention. It provides more contrast.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
Catalina Blue can be used as a primary color in website designs for tech companies or financial institutions to convey trust and professionalism. It works well in combination with white or light gray to create a clean and modern look. Buttons, navigation bars, and heading elements can be styled with this color. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with text to meet accessibility standards. Also, avoid overuse, as too much blue can make the design feel cold.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Catalina Blue can be used in clothing designs for both casual and formal wear. It works particularly well for creating sophisticated looks in dresses, suits, or outerwear. Accessorizing with complementary colors like gold or silver can enhance the richness of the blue. When using it in patterns, consider the overall balance of colors to avoid overwhelming the design. It's an excellent choice for creating a classic and elegant style statement.
Interior Design
In interior design, Catalina Blue can be used as an accent color in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white. Consider using it for painting accent walls, selecting furniture upholstery, or choosing decorative accessories like cushions and vases. The color helps create a serene and professional environment.