Blue Whale
General Information about #023047
The hexadecimal color code #023047 represents a dark shade of blue, often referred to as 'Blue Whale'. It is composed of 0.78% red, 18.82% green, and 27.84% blue. In the RGB color model, this equates to 2 red, 48 green, and 71 blue. The corresponding CMYK values are 97% cyan, 32% magenta, 0% yellow, and 72% black. This color is commonly associated with qualities such as depth, stability, and calmness. Its dark nature makes it suitable for creating a sense of sophistication and seriousness, often used in professional settings or designs that aim to convey trust and reliability. The hex color is therefore a common colour in web design for header, sidebars and footers.
The color #023047, also known as Blue Whale, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark hue. When used as a background, it requires light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Blue Whale may not meet these ratios when paired with moderately dark colors. Therefore, employing tools to measure contrast ratios is essential. To enhance accessibility, consider using lighter shades of gray, yellow, or white for text. Avoid pairing it with other dark colors or shades of blue without careful evaluation. Also, provide alternative text descriptions for any visual elements using this color, especially for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e6091
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers better contrast when used with darker text.
- #333333
A dark gray that provides a neutral background and easier readability with a wider range of text colors.
- #004b70
A slightly more saturated blue that is still dark but works well with yellow/gold to get a great contrast ratio
Applications
Website Design
In web design, #023047 can be used for website headers, navigation bars, and sidebars to create a professional and calming atmosphere. When used in conjunction with lighter colors like creams or light yellows, it provides a sophisticated and modern look. It’s crucial to ensure the text on these elements has sufficient contrast for readability, and it should be tested to meet WCAG guidelines. Furthermore, subtle animations or hover effects can enhance the user experience without compromising accessibility. The usage of a dark mode will improve the experience for people browsing on the phone as well.
Interior Design
In interior design, #023047 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and intimate setting. It pairs well with natural wood tones and metallic accents like gold or brass. It’s important to balance the dark color with lighter furniture and décor to prevent the room from feeling too small or dark. Also, adding indoor plants can enhance the overall aesthetic and bring life into the space. Light colored floors will drastically improve the experience.
Fashion
In fashion, #023047 can be used for elegant evening wear or professional business attire. It works well with neutral colors like gray, black, and white, as well as bolder colors like red or mustard yellow for a pop of color. Accessories in silver or gold can complement the dark blue tone. When using this color in fashion, it’s important to consider the fabric, as the color may appear differently on various materials. The usage of light accents, such as buttons, will improve the overall outcome.