Smalt
General Information about #033C95 (Smalt)
The color #033C95, commonly known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trust. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.2% red, 23.53% green, and 58.43% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 98% cyan, 60% magenta, 0% yellow, and 42% black. This color is often associated with professionalism, reliability, and authority, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and designs aimed at conveying trust and security. Its hexadecimal representation, #033C95, allows for precise color specification in digital design and web development. Smalt derives its name from a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass, historically used in paints and ceramics.
The color #033C95, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a foreground color on a white or light background. Its low luminance value of approximately 3.8% means that it offers insufficient contrast, failing to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for normal text (AA compliance) and large text (AA compliance), as well as AAA compliance for both normal and large text. To improve accessibility, consider using #033C95 with lighter background colors or using it as a background color with light text. For instance, pairing it with white or a very light shade of yellow or green can substantially improve readability and ensure that content is accessible to a broader audience, including individuals with visual impairments. Tools are available to analyze color contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2864b4
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used to draw attention to key elements in a design.
- #002663
This dark blue has a higher luminance and provides a sophisticated look while ensuring better readability.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #033C95 can be used for navigation bars, headers, or as an accent color to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and light beige to create a professional and trustworthy appearance. When used sparingly, it can effectively highlight calls to action or important information, enhancing the user experience. It is important to ensure that the contrast ratio with text is sufficient to meet accessibility guidelines.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt (#033C95) can serve as a striking accent color in a room, adding a touch of elegance and drama. It works particularly well in spaces where you want to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere, such as bedrooms or studies. It can be used on walls, furniture, or decorative elements like cushions and artwork. Pair it with lighter colors like creams, grays, and light blues to balance the intensity and prevent the room from feeling too dark. Metallic accents like gold or silver can further enhance its luxurious feel.
Fashion
In fashion, #033C95 makes for a stunning choice for evening wear or formal attire. A Smalt-colored dress or suit conveys confidence and sophistication. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories such as scarves, handbags, or shoes to add a pop of color to a more neutral outfit. When pairing with other colors, consider using complementary colors like gold or mustard yellow to create a balanced and visually appealing look.