Blue Whale
General Information about #03304D
The hexadecimal color #03304D, also known as 'Blue Whale', is a very dark shade of cyan-blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.18% red, 18.82% green, and 30.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 96% cyan, 38% magenta, 0% yellow, and 70% black. This deep blue hue is often associated with depth, stability, and trustworthiness. Its low lightness value makes it appear almost black, lending it a sophisticated and understated quality. Colors similar to #03304D can evoke feelings of calm, introspection, and professionalism. It's frequently used in contexts where a sense of authority and reliability is desired, and its subtle nature makes it a versatile choice for backgrounds and accents.
The color #03304D, a deep, muted blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value (approximately 4% on a scale of 0-100) means it requires careful consideration for text and interactive elements. When used as a background, ensure text is a light color, such as white or a very pale yellow, to meet WCAG contrast requirements for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Avoid using this color for small, intricate graphics or icons, as the lack of contrast can make them difficult to discern, especially for users with visual impairments. Consider providing alternative high-contrast themes to improve accessibility for all users. Furthermore, be mindful of colorblindness; this color may appear similar to dark grey for some individuals. Testing with colorblindness simulators is recommended.
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Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Website Design
This deep blue is excellent for creating a sense of calm and sophistication in website designs. It can be used for headers, footers, or as a background color for sections where you want to convey trust and stability. It's particularly well-suited for financial websites or corporate intranets where a professional and reliable image is important. Combining it with lighter accent colors, such as a pale gold or off-white, can create an elegant and visually appealing aesthetic. Using it in moderation to avoid overwhelming the user is recommended.
Interior Design: Moody Interiors
In interior design, #03304D can be used to create a moody and intimate atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, especially when paired with warm lighting and natural textures. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. This color is very dark, so it might be best to use in rooms with a lot of natural light or artificial lights, so the room does not become to dark. It can be combined with wooden colors, especially in combination with golden details.
Fashion Design
Blue Whale can be used for fashion design for elegant evening wear or luxurious accessories. A satin or velvet fabric in this color will create a stunning effect. It could also be used as a contrast color with lighter colors, for example a creme white. This is especially usefull for more formal dresses, scarfs, ties, or even as a small detail on a suit. Accessories in this color create a timeless look.