Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#023C96)
The color #023C96, also known as Smalt, is a deep, dark shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.78% red, 23.53% green, and 58.82% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 99% cyan, 60% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. This color is often associated with qualities such as stability, trust, and intelligence. It is frequently used in corporate branding and website design to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. Smalt derives its name from a finely ground potassium glass containing cobalt, which was historically used as a pigment to produce this particular shade of blue. The color has a rich history in art, textiles, and decorative arts.
The hex color #023C96, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background color for text. Due to its dark hue, it necessitates light-colored text for sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. When using #023C96, careful consideration must be given to the text color to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can be employed to verify compliance. Also, avoid using this color for interactive elements without clear visual cues, as its darkness might obscure affordances. For better accessibility, lighter shades or tints of blue or complementary colors with sufficient contrast should be considered.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast with dark text, improving readability and accessibility.
- #4169e1
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color, providing a pop of color without compromising accessibility.
- #b0e0e6
A softer blue that works well for backgrounds, creating a calming and visually appealing interface.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #023C96 can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for websites in the finance, technology or legal sectors. It can be used for headers, navigation bars or as an accent color to highlight important sections. It should however be paired with light text to ensure sufficient contrast ratio and therefore readability. Because the color is quite dark, it can be useful to consider lighter tints of the base color as background and use the original hex value for smaller accents and details.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, #023C96 can be used as a primary color for elegant evening wear or formal attire. It can also be paired with other colors like gold or silver for a luxurious look. It's a color often associated with loyalty and trust, making it ideal for business contexts. Furthermore, Smalt is great for accessories such as ties, scarves, and handbags, providing a subtle yet sophisticated touch to any outfit. It works well with neutral tones like beige, grey, and white, which help to balance the richness of the color.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can be used as an accent color in rooms with a modern or minimalist style. It can be incorporated through furniture, decorative pillows, or artwork to add depth and visual interest. As a wall color, consider using it in rooms with ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark or small. It pairs well with other colors like white, cream, or light gray. Metallic accents in gold or silver can be used to enhance the richness of the color.