Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#023F99)
The hexadecimal color code #023F99 represents a deep, saturated shade of blue, commonly referred to as Smalt. Smalt, derived from a historical pigment made from potassium glass colored with cobalt, offers a rich and sophisticated aesthetic. In the RGB color model, #023F99 is composed of 0.8% red, 24.7% green, and 60% blue. Its CMYK equivalent is approximately 99% cyan, 59% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This color is often associated with qualities like trust, stability, and intelligence, making it suitable for various applications in branding and design. Due to its depth, Smalt can create a sense of formality and professionalism, while its blue hue evokes feelings of calmness and serenity.
The hex color #023f99, also known as Smalt, presents unique accessibility challenges due to its dark hue and low luminance. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is crucial to verify compliance. Avoid pairing #023f99 with similarly dark colors, as this will create insufficient contrast, making content difficult or impossible for users with visual impairments to discern. Consider providing alternative high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize color schemes to improve accessibility for diverse needs. When using this color for non-text elements such as icons or graphical elements, ensure they are large enough or have sufficient surrounding contrast to be easily distinguishable.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Smalt (#023f99) can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites or applications aiming for a professional or corporate aesthetic. It pairs well with lighter accent colors like white, cream, or a pale yellow. Using it in navigation bars, headers, or footers can create a visually appealing structure. For data visualization, #023f99 can represent a specific category or highlight key data points, but always ensure sufficient contrast with labels and other elements to maintain readability. In branding, this color can convey trust, stability, and intelligence.
Fashion and Beauty
In the realm of fashion, Smalt can be incorporated into evening wear, formal attire, or accessories. It serves as a striking alternative to traditional black or navy, offering a touch of uniqueness and sophistication. When used in makeup, Smalt can create a dramatic and alluring eye look, particularly when paired with metallic or shimmering accents. It can also appear in nail polish to provide a bold and stylish statement. Considering its depth, Smalt-colored fabrics or materials can be used in small doses as accessories or contrasts.
Interior Design
Smalt (#023f99) can add a touch of elegance and depth to interior spaces. It works well as an accent wall color in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices, creating a calming and sophisticated ambiance. Pair it with lighter neutral tones, such as beige, gray, or white, to balance the darkness and create a sense of spaciousness. Smalt-colored furniture, such as sofas, chairs, or cabinets, can also make a bold statement, especially when complemented by metallic or wooden accents. This color is also suitable for textiles like curtains, rugs, or cushions.