Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #03365A, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It's a color often associated with sophistication, intelligence, and authority. Historically, Prussian Blue was one of the first synthetically produced pigments, discovered in the early 18th century. Chemically, it's an iron hexacyanoferrate complex. The color is known for its stability and was widely used in paints, inks, and dyes. In color psychology, dark blues like Prussian Blue are often linked to trustworthiness, stability, and knowledge. Its low saturation and brightness give it a serious and formal feel, making it suitable for applications where a sense of professionalism is desired.
The hex color #03365A, also known as Prussian Blue, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low lightness value (around 5%) means that text or elements using this color as a background require very light text colors to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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 white (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of gray would be necessary to meet these requirements. When using this color for interactive elements, consider providing alternative visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or icons, to assist users with color vision deficiencies. Proper testing with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance and a positive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e4a77
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast ratios while retaining a similar aesthetic.
- #011f38
A darker shade for creating stronger visual hierarchy or contrast when #03365A is used as a secondary color.
- #002147
Oxford Blue is a dark shade of blue that is often used in formal contexts, such as academic settings or corporate branding. It conveys a sense of professionalism, authority, and tradition. In web design, Oxford Blue can be used for headers, navigation bars, or background elements to create a sophisticated and trustworthy feel. The color is less saturated, so text using this color will have slightly better contrast.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Prussian Blue, with its depth and sophistication, serves exceptionally well in website backgrounds, particularly for businesses aiming to project reliability and competence. Paired with a clean, minimalist design and bright, contrasting text (such as white or a light yellow), it can create an engaging visual experience that's both professional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider incorporating subtle animations or parallax scrolling effects to further enhance user engagement without detracting from the core message. This approach is particularly suitable for financial institutions, legal firms, or technology companies.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, Prussian Blue can be used as an accent color in living rooms or bedrooms. It works well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white. Prussian Blue can be incorporated through elements like throw pillows, curtains, or wall art. The dark blue color creates a calming environment and adds a touch of sophistication to the room. Combining it with wooden furniture or metallic accents such as gold or silver can further elevate the space.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Prussian Blue is a versatile color that can be used in various garments. It can be used for elegant dresses, professional suits, or casual wear such as sweaters and jackets. Prussian Blue pairs well with other colors like white, gray, or beige. It can also be combined with bolder colors such as mustard yellow or burgundy for a more striking look. The color suits a wide range of skin tones and can be worn by people of all ages.