Prussian Blue
General Information
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #03355A, is a dark shade of blue with a rich history and significant presence in art and design. It was first synthesized in the early 18th century and quickly became a popular pigment due to its stability, intensity, and relatively low cost. The color is known for its deep, slightly greenish undertone, reminiscent of the uniforms worn by the Prussian army, hence its name. In the RGB color model, #03355A consists of 1.2% red, 20.8% green, and 35.3% blue. It has a calming and sophisticated feel. Prussian Blue is often associated with qualities such as trust, intelligence, and stability, making it a popular choice for branding and corporate identities.
The hex color #03355A, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used for text or interactive elements. Its dark nature means that it requires a light-colored foreground to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color like white (#FFFFFF) or a very light shade of yellow or beige as the foreground color could provide adequate contrast. Careful consideration should be given to users with visual impairments, who may find it difficult to distinguish between similar dark shades. Testing with accessibility tools and gathering feedback from users are essential steps in ensuring inclusivity. Also avoid using this color as background color with dark text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e4d73
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains the richness of Prussian Blue but offers better contrast when paired with darker text or design elements. It provides a softer visual experience while remaining sophisticated and elegant.
- #00566b
A deep teal color that offers a similar aesthetic to Prussian Blue but with a hint of green, making it more versatile for various design applications. It works well as an accent color or a primary color in designs that require a calming and natural feel.
- #001f3f
A dark navy blue that provides a classic and professional look, suitable for corporate branding and designs. Its familiarity makes it easily accepted and perceived as trustworthy and reliable.
Applications
Web Design
Prussian Blue can serve as a sophisticated background color for websites, particularly those in the technology or finance sectors, where trust and stability are important. It pairs well with lighter accent colors like light gray or white to create a clean and professional look. The color can also be used in button design, navigation bars, and data visualizations to provide a cohesive and engaging user experience. Additionally, it can be effective in creating a dark mode version of a website, reducing eye strain in low-light environments.
Interior Design
In interior design, Prussian Blue can be used to create a calming and elegant atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms, studies, or living rooms when paired with warm neutrals like cream or beige. The color can be applied to walls, furniture, or accent pieces such as cushions and curtains. Prussian Blue also complements natural materials like wood and leather, adding a touch of sophistication to any space. Furthermore, it can be combined with metallic accents like gold or silver to create a luxurious and timeless look.
Fashion and Beauty
Prussian Blue is a popular choice in fashion for creating classic and timeless looks. It can be used in clothing items such as dresses, suits, and coats, providing a sophisticated and professional appearance. The color pairs well with neutral tones like black, white, and gray, as well as with other blues and greens. Prussian Blue can also be used in accessories such as scarves, handbags, and shoes, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit. In the beauty industry, it can be used in nail polish, eyeshadow, and eyeliner to create a bold and dramatic look.