Smalt
General Information about #023396 (Smalt)
The hexadecimal color #023396, also known as Smalt, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its high saturation and relatively low brightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.8% red, 20% green, and 58.8% blue. Smalt derives its name from a finely ground potassium glass containing cobalt, which was historically used as a pigment to impart a deep blue color to various materials, including paints, ceramics, and textiles. The color is often associated with sophistication, intelligence, and stability. It's a versatile color that evokes feelings of trust and tranquility and is often used in designs aiming to inspire confidence.
The color #023396, a deep smalt blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially concerning text legibility. When using this color as a background, it is crucial to select a text color with sufficient contrast. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray generally work well to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) requirements for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using dark text colors on this background, as they will be difficult to read, causing eye strain and hindering accessibility for users with visual impairments. Tools are available online to check the contrast ratio between foreground and background colors to ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Consider using color combinations that provide both visual appeal and accessibility for all users.
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Applications
Website Design for Financial Institutions
Smalt, with its depth and richness, evokes a sense of sophistication and authority, making it perfect for designing websites for financial institutions or law firms. The color inspires confidence and stability, crucial traits for these sectors. Using #023396 in headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color on a clean, minimalist layout can create a professional and trustworthy online presence. Pair it with neutral tones like gray or white to balance its intensity and ensure readability. This blue helps to create a visual experience that conveys both competence and reliability.
Beauty and Fashion: Eyeshadow and Accents
In the realm of beauty and fashion, #023396 can be utilized to create stunning eye makeup looks. Smalt eyeshadow can add depth and drama to the eyes, especially when paired with complementary shades like gold or copper. This rich blue can also be used as an eyeliner to define the eyes without being as harsh as black. Furthermore, smalt-colored clothing or accessories can serve as sophisticated accents, adding a touch of elegance to an outfit. Because of it's saturation, it's best as an accent instead of the entire primary color.
Interior Design: Accent Walls and Decor
Smalt (#023396) can be implemented in interior design to create accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms, adding a sense of depth and luxury. The deep blue works particularly well in rooms with ample natural light, as it can make the space feel cozier without becoming too dark. In smaller doses, smalt-colored cushions, throws, or artwork can inject personality and sophistication into a room. Pair it with neutral furniture and metallic accents to achieve a balanced and stylish look. The color helps to create a calm and relaxing environment, perfect for bedrooms or living spaces intended for relaxation.