Smalt

General Information about Smalt (#023496)

Smalt, represented by the hexadecimal color code #023496, is a deep and rich shade of blue. Historically, 'Smalt' refers to a pigment made by grinding blue glass containing cobalt. This pigment was widely used in paintings, ceramics, and textiles, especially during the 17th and 18th centuries. The color evokes feelings of tranquility, trust, and stability, making it a popular choice for various applications. In color psychology, blue is often associated with intelligence, calmness, and authority. #023496, being a darker shade, tends to convey a sense of seriousness and professionalism. It is commonly used in corporate branding and web design to create a reliable and trustworthy image. The low saturation and relatively low lightness of #023496 contribute to its sophisticated and non-intrusive nature.

The color #023496, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold/18pt regular or larger) to comply with AA level accessibility. For AAA level, the contrast ratios are higher (7:1 and 4.5:1 respectively). When using #023496 for interactive elements like buttons or links, sufficient visual cues beyond color alone are crucial. This can include underlines for links, borders for buttons, or hover/focus states that change the color or add an additional visual indicator. When #023496 is used for text, it is crucial to use a very light background color. Careful consideration of colorblindness is important too, as the strong blue hue might be difficult for individuals with certain types of color vision deficiency to distinguish from similar dark colors. Testing with color blindness simulators is advisable. Overall, #023496 requires careful planning and testing to ensure inclusive and accessible design.

Shades

Digital Color Formats

Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Development

  In web development, Smalt (#023496) can be effectively used for header backgrounds or navigation bars to create a sense of depth and sophistication. Its dark hue is well-suited for highlighting important sections of a website without being overly distracting. When coupled with white or light yellow text, it creates an appealing contrast that is easy on the eyes. It can also be employed to define the color palette for a brand that seeks to convey trust and reliability. Furthermore, using it in call-to-action buttons, combined with a brighter contrasting color for the text, can draw users attention effectively.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Smalt (#023496) offers a versatile option for creating a calming and elegant atmosphere. It works exceptionally well as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living rooms, lending a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the space. When paired with lighter, neutral colors such as beige or gray, it adds depth and visual interest. Furniture in natural wood tones and metallic accents in gold or brass complement the dark blue beautifully. It can also be integrated into textiles such as curtains, rugs, or throw pillows to tie the room together.

• Fashion

  In fashion, Smalt (#023496) serves as a sophisticated and timeless choice for various garments. It is particularly suitable for evening wear, formal dresses, and tailored suits, exuding an air of understated elegance. When combined with silver or gold accessories, it enhances the luxurious feel of the outfit. Smalt also pairs well with neutral colors such as black, white, and gray, allowing for versatile styling options. It can be incorporated into casual wear as well, such as sweaters, jackets, and denim, offering a more refined alternative to traditional navy blue.

Complementary color

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