Dark Blue
General Information about #0304E3
The hexadecimal color code #0304e3 represents a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 1.18% red, 1.57% green, and 89.02% blue. In the RGB color model, this translates to R=3, G=4, B=227. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 98.68% cyan, 98.24% magenta, 0% yellow, and 10.98% black. This color is often described as a deep, intense blue, evoking feelings of stability, trust, and authority. It is commonly used in various applications, including web design, graphic design, and branding, to convey a sense of professionalism and reliability. It is not typically found in nature, but is often associated with the night sky, the ocean depths, and technology.
The hex color #0304e3, a dark blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low lightness value (very dark) results in poor contrast against standard white backgrounds. This lack of contrast makes text and other interface elements difficult to read, leading to a degraded user experience. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. To improve accessibility, consider using #0304e3 sparingly, especially for text or interactive elements. When using it, ensure sufficient contrast by pairing it with very light colors such as white (#ffffff) or very light yellows (#ffffcc) to meet WCAG standards. Providing alternative high-contrast themes or allowing users to customize colors can also enhance accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability and accessibility.
- #1e88e5
A vibrant blue that offers a modern and energetic feel while maintaining sufficient contrast for text and interface elements.
- #42a5f5
A more muted and sophisticated blue that can be used to create a calming and professional atmosphere with improved contrast ratio.
Applications
Website Design
This dark blue can be used for creating a sense of depth and sophistication in a website's design. It is often used in the headers, footers, or sidebars to create a strong visual hierarchy and guide the user's eye through the content. #0304e3 works exceptionally well for technology-related websites, financial institutions, and corporate sites aiming to convey reliability and trust. Using it sparingly as an accent color can also draw attention to important elements, such as calls to action or key information.
Interior Design
In interior design, a dark blue like #0304e3 can be used to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. It's particularly effective in bedrooms or living rooms where the goal is to promote relaxation and tranquility. It can be applied on walls as paint to give a room a calming feel. When paired with light-colored furniture and accents, it can create a balanced and visually appealing space, perfect for creating a comfortable sanctuary.
Fashion
In fashion, a dark blue such as #0304e3 can be used as a base color for formal outfits and garments that exude sophistication. As an example, a cocktail dress can be designed using this color. It is a popular choice for professional attire, as it conveys confidence and reliability. It can also be used as an accent color in casual outfits, such as a dark blue scarf or sweater, adding a touch of elegance to everyday wear.