Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue
Catalina Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #041E7A, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It is often associated with feelings of calmness, depth, and sophistication. In color psychology, dark blues like Catalina Blue can evoke a sense of trust, security, and authority. The color is composed of 1.6% red, 11.8% green, and 47.8% blue. Its RGB values are 4, 30, and 122, respectively. This particular shade of blue is not commonly found in nature but is frequently used in corporate branding, web design, and interior decoration to convey professionalism and reliability. Its muted tone makes it versatile, able to be paired with both warm and cool colors.
The color #041E7A, also known as Catalina Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low luminance value of 3.24 makes it difficult to achieve sufficient contrast against lighter backgrounds. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #041E7A for text or interactive elements requires careful selection of a very light background color to meet these contrast requirements. Insufficient contrast can make content unreadable and inaccessible. When using this color, ensure that sufficient contrast is present, or consider using a lighter shade or tint of blue to improve accessibility for all users, also take into consideration color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, improving readability.
A more saturated blue that provides a visually distinct alternative while maintaining a sense of depth.
A lighter tint of blue, increasing the accessibility of text against darker backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Catalina Blue can be used sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements like buttons or links. Due to its darkness, it is not recommended for large blocks of text or backgrounds, unless paired with a very light foreground color to ensure readability. Using it in navigation menus or headers can provide a touch of sophistication, but always prioritize accessibility by checking contrast ratios. It can be used to give websites a clean, corporate feel when combined with lighter grays and whites.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Catalina Blue can be used to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere in bedrooms or studies. It works well as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery. When used in larger spaces, it is best paired with lighter colors like beige or cream to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Accessorize with metallic accents like gold or silver to enhance its richness. The color evokes feelings of tranquility and focus making it ideal for relaxation areas.
Fashion
In fashion, Catalina Blue can be used to create elegant and professional looks. It works well for formal wear, such as dresses or suits, and can be paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic ensemble. Accessorizing with gold or silver jewelry can further enhance the sophistication of the outfit. It's a versatile color that can be worn year-round and is flattering on many skin tones, exuding confidence and style.