Prussian Blue

General Information about Prussian Blue

Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #02305C, is a deep and rich shade of blue with a subtle hint of green. Its name originates from its historical association with Prussian military uniforms and its use as a pigment. Chemically, it's a complex iron cyanide compound. In color theory, Prussian Blue is often categorized as a cool color, evoking feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It's a versatile color used extensively in art, design, and fashion. Its depth allows it to function both as a background and an accent color, depending on the desired effect. Its association with royalty and the military lend to it an air of authority and respect. The color is also referred to as iron(III) hexacyanoferrate(II).

The hex color #02305C, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, adhering to WCAG guidelines. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended. Tools like contrast checkers can accurately determine the ratio between text and background. Using this dark color for interactive elements requires careful consideration of hover and focus states, where a lighter shade or a contrasting border can enhance usability. Careful design and testing with users, especially those with visual impairments, will help optimize the accessibility of designs incorporating Prussian Blue. It's suitability as an option depends on the use-case, and requires additional focus on the contrast.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Website Headers and Footers

  Prussian Blue's depth and sophistication make it a prime choice for website headers and footers, lending a sense of professionalism and stability. Its dark hue provides a strong anchor for the page, effectively framing the content. When paired with a clean, minimalist layout and contrasting typography, it creates a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. Furthermore, this color can be incorporated in interactive elements such as buttons and navigation menus, utilizing hover effects to enhance usability.

• Interior Design: Wall Color

  In the realm of interior design, Prussian Blue serves as an elegant wall color for creating a calming and sophisticated ambiance. It works exceptionally well in bedrooms, studies, or libraries, fostering a sense of tranquility and focus. Complementary colors like gold, cream, or light gray can be used in furniture and decor to create a balanced and visually harmonious space. The use of texture, such as velvet or linen, further enhances the richness and depth of this color.

• Fashion Apparel

  In fashion, Prussian Blue conveys a sense of timeless elegance and understated luxury. It's a versatile color that can be used in various garments, from formal wear to casual attire. A Prussian Blue blazer or dress makes a statement of sophistication, while a sweater or pair of pants in this hue offers a touch of refined style. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and black, as well as bolder hues like mustard yellow and deep red, enabling a wide range of stylish combinations.

Complementary color

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