Smalt
General Information about Smalt
The hexadecimal color #023997, also known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. In color theory, Smalt is often associated with knowledge, power, integrity, and seriousness. This particular shade of blue has a relatively low lightness value, making it appear darker and more intense than lighter blues. It's frequently used in branding and design to convey a sense of authority and reliability. Its deep hue makes it suitable for creating a strong visual impact, but care should be taken to ensure sufficient contrast when used with text or other elements. The color name "Smalt" is derived from the pigment made by grinding cobalt glass to a fine powder.
The color #023997, a deep, saturated blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, ideally adhering to WCAG AA or AAA standards. Conversely, as a text color, it requires a very light or white background. It's crucial to test the contrast ratio using online tools to verify compliance. For users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness, inadequate contrast can make content illegible. Moreover, avoid using this color as the sole means of conveying important information; supplement it with text or icons. Consideration should also be given to users with cognitive disabilities, ensuring a clean, uncluttered design that doesn't rely heavily on color differentiation alone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web development, #023997 can be used as a primary color for a corporate website, especially for companies wanting to project an image of trustworthiness, stability, and professionalism. It works well for headings, buttons, and navigation bars. In UI design, it can highlight interactive elements, drawing the user's attention to key functionalities. The depth of the color makes it suitable for creating a sense of depth and importance. Be cautious of using it in large blocks of text due to potential readability issues. Combining it with complementary or analogous colors can create a visually appealing and balanced design.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #023997 could be applied as an accent wall color in a study or office space. The color promotes focus and concentration. Complementary colors like gold or tan can be used in furniture or accessories to create a sophisticated and balanced atmosphere. This shade of blue can also be incorporated into textiles, such as curtains or throw pillows, to add a touch of elegance and serenity to a living room or bedroom. When using this color, consider the lighting in the room, as it can appear darker in poorly lit spaces.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #023997 can be incorporated into formal wear, such as suits or evening gowns, conveying a sense of sophistication and power. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories, like ties, scarves, or handbags. This color works particularly well with neutral tones like gray, black, or white, creating a classic and timeless look. For a more bold statement, #023997 can be paired with complementary colors like orange or yellow. This color is more appropriate for the fall and winter seasons.