Downriver
General Information about #042159
The hexadecimal color #042159, often referred to as 'Downriver', is a deep, dark shade of blue. It is composed of 1.57% red, 13.92% green, and 34.9% blue. In the RGB color space, this translates to R:4, G:33, B:89. In the CMYK color space, the color is composed of 95.5% cyan, 62.9% magenta, 0% yellow, and 65.1% black. This color is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and authority. Its darkness makes it suitable for backgrounds where a sense of seriousness or formality is desired. It is commonly used in corporate branding, websites, and applications where a professional image is paramount. However, due to its low luminance, it is important to consider accessibility guidelines when using this color in design, ensuring adequate contrast with foreground elements.
The color #042159, a deep, dark blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, primarily due to its low luminance. When used as a background, it necessitates very light text (white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. According to WCAG 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. This color requires careful selection of foreground elements to meet these standards. Using online contrast checkers is essential to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color for small clickable elements or important icons without adequate contrast, as it can be easily missed by users with visual impairments. Consider providing alternative high-contrast themes for your website or application to cater to a wider range of users and accessibility needs. Ensuring that text is scalable without loss of contrast is also crucial.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast than #042159 while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #334155
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color with better accessibility.
- #004643
A dark teal color offering a different aesthetic while potentially improving contrast depending on the foreground.
Applications
Corporate Website Design
In web design, #042159 can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for headers, footers, or sidebars. However, careful consideration must be given to text color choices to ensure readability. It is well-suited for websites targeting corporate clients, financial institutions, or educational platforms that aim to convey trustworthiness and authority. The dark hue allows for the effective use of bright accent colors to highlight key elements or calls to action. Employing this color in moderation and strategically can elevate the overall design while maintaining usability. It is recommended to use in combination with lighter elements.
Interior Design Accent Color
In interior design, #042159 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. It pairs well with light-colored furniture and metallic accents, like gold or silver. This color can also be used in home offices to promote focus and concentration. When using this deep blue, be sure to incorporate adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Adding plants can bring some life to the darker color.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #042159 can be used for elegant evening wear or sophisticated business attire. It can be incorporated into dresses, suits, or accessories like handbags and scarves. This color is a versatile option that can be paired with a variety of colors, from neutrals like gray and beige to bolder shades like red and gold. The deep, rich tone of #042159 adds a touch of class and refinement to any outfit.