Tangaroa
General Information about #03203C
The hex color #03203C, also known as Tangaroa, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, sophistication, and tranquility. It belongs to the blue color family, which is generally associated with calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. In the RGB color model, #03203C is composed of 1.2% red, 12.5% green, and 23.5% blue. The corresponding CMYK values are 95% cyan, 47% magenta, 0% yellow, and 76% black. This color is often used in designs where a sense of professionalism, reliability, or serenity is desired. Its low luminance makes it suitable for backgrounds or accents, but it should be used carefully to ensure readability when paired with text. Tangaroa is reminiscent of the deep ocean, which aligns with its association with the Maori sea god.
The hex color #03203C, also known as Tangaroa, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its extremely low luminance value of 1.88 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. 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 #03203C for text, it's crucial to select a very light background color to ensure readability. Conversely, if #03203C is used as a background, text must be a very light color. Tools for checking color contrast ratios are essential to ensure compliance. Furthermore, relying solely on color to convey information is not advisable; use of additional cues like text labels or icons can improve accessibility for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #13304c
A slightly lighter shade of blue, offering improved contrast while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #43506c
A desaturated grayish-blue which provides a more neutral background color and improves readability for text.
- #23405c
A brighter blue, this alternative offers a more vivid visual experience and enhanced contrast.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #03203C can be used sparingly for decorative elements or backgrounds in specific sections to create a sophisticated and deep mood. Due to its dark nature, it's ideal for elements where emphasis is not required or where it complements lighter, more prominent colors. For example, it can be used in website footers, navigation bars, or as a subtle overlay on images. It's important to avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios for accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, #03203C can serve as an accent color in rooms to provide depth and a sense of tranquility. It works well in spaces intended for relaxation, such as bedrooms or studies. It can be applied to walls, furniture, or decorative items like cushions and throws. When used in combination with lighter colors, it creates a balanced and visually appealing environment. Consider pairing it with warm neutrals to prevent the space from feeling too cold or sterile. Its depth can give a room a cozier feel, especially when balanced with proper lighting.
Fashion
In fashion, Tangaroa lends itself to creating sophisticated and understated looks. It can be used for evening wear, outerwear, or accessories. When used for clothing, it can be paired with lighter colors or metallic accents to create a striking contrast. Accessories in this color, such as scarves or handbags, can add a touch of elegance to an outfit. The depth of the color makes it a versatile choice for creating both formal and casual ensembles. Combining it with textured fabrics can further enhance its visual appeal.