Downriver
General Information about #042153
The hex color #042153, often referred to as "Downriver," is a very dark shade of blue, almost approaching black. It resides in the blue color family, known for its association with tranquility, depth, and stability. In the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model, #042153 is composed of 1.57% red, 13.92% green, and 32.55% blue. This composition indicates a strong bias towards blue, which accounts for its distinctive hue. Colors similar to #042153 evoke feelings of trust, security, and sophistication, making it a popular choice for corporate branding, website design, and other applications where a sense of reliability is essential. Its darkness also provides a sense of gravitas and importance.
The hex color #042153, also known as Downriver, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its very dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires extremely light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. Given the darkness of #042153, only colors close to white or very light shades of yellow or green will likely meet these standards. It is crucial to test color combinations using accessibility tools to confirm compliance and ensure that users with visual impairments can comfortably access the content. Using this color for essential UI elements like buttons or links should be carefully considered, opting for lighter alternatives if possible.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Downriver (#042153) can be used to create a sophisticated and trustworthy aesthetic, particularly for financial or corporate websites. As a background for headers or sidebars, it conveys stability. However, it should be paired with high-contrast text to ensure readability and accessibility. It is also applicable for graphical elements like icons or dividers where a subtle, dark accent is needed to provide visual structure without overpowering the content. Consider using it sparingly to maintain balance and prevent the design from feeling too heavy or somber. It could be also be part of a color palette.
Interior Design
In interior design, Downriver (#042153) can serve as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative items in rooms designed to evoke a sense of calm and depth. It pairs well with lighter neutrals such as creams, grays, or whites to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. It’s particularly suitable for spaces like bedrooms, studies, or libraries where a serene environment is desired. Furthermore, incorporating metallic accents like gold or brass can enhance the richness of this deep blue hue. When used in larger quantities, ensure there is sufficient natural or artificial lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark or enclosed.
Fashion
In fashion, #042153 (Downriver) is a versatile color that can be used to create both elegant and casual looks. As a base color for formal wear, such as suits or dresses, it conveys sophistication and professionalism. It also works well as an accent color in accessories like scarves, ties, or handbags to add depth and visual interest to an outfit. It complements a wide range of other colors, including lighter blues, grays, and earthy tones. When using this color in fashion, consider the fabric's texture and weight to enhance its impact and ensure it complements the overall style.