Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#033598)
The hex color #033598, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue that exudes sophistication and depth. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its low saturation and luminance, giving it a muted yet rich appearance. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding cobalt glass, and it has been used in various art forms for centuries. In the RGB color model, #033598 is composed of 1.18% red, 20.78% green, and 59.61% blue. Its CMYK values are 97% cyan, 65% magenta, 0% yellow, and 40% black. This color evokes feelings of tranquility, trust, and authority, making it a popular choice for branding and design where reliability and stability are desired.
The color #033598, a deep shade of blue known as Smalt, presents several accessibility considerations for web development. Its low lightness value means it requires careful attention to contrast ratios, particularly when used for text. According to WCAG guidelines, text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. When using #033598 for text, a very light background color is essential to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. If used as a background, light-colored text is necessary. Ensure that interactive elements like buttons or links have sufficient visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or borders, to aid users who may have difficulty distinguishing between colors. Proper implementation helps ensure content is accessible to a broader audience, including those with low vision or color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2e5cb8
A slightly lighter blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while still maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #022464
A darker shade of blue that can be used for backgrounds or accents where a deeper, more subdued color is desired.
- #3366ff
A vibrant blue that can be used as a color accent and to make a website more lively
Applications
Corporate Web Design
In web design, #033598 can be effectively used to create a sense of trust and authority. It is particularly suitable for websites related to finance, banking, or legal services, where establishing credibility is crucial. It can be employed for navigation bars, headers, and footers to provide a professional and reliable feel. Furthermore, when combined with lighter shades or contrasting colors like yellow or white, it can highlight important sections and call-to-action buttons, guiding users through the site effectively. The key is to balance its depth with appropriate contrast to ensure readability and visual appeal.
Interior Design
In interior design, #033598 can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well in bedrooms or studies, where a sense of tranquility is desired. This color can be applied to accent walls or used in decorative elements such as cushions, curtains, or rugs. Pairing it with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white can create a balanced and elegant look. Metallic accents, such as gold or silver, can further enhance the luxurious feel. Its depth brings a sense of elegance when applied thoughtfully and balanced with lighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark or overwhelming.
Fashion and Cosmetics
In fashion, Smalt (#033598) can be used to create elegant and sophisticated looks. It works well in evening wear, business attire, or statement accessories. Combine with neutral colours like white, black or grey for a classy and timeless look. In cosmetics, it can be used for eye shadow, eyeliner, or nail polish to add a pop of color.