Blue Whale
General Information about #042444
The hex color code #042444, also known as 'Blue Whale,' is a very dark shade of blue. It's composed of 1.57% red, 14.12% green, and 26.67% blue. In the RGB color model, it has values of R:4, G:36, B:68. The CMYK values are C:0.94, M:0.47, Y:0.00, K:0.73. This color is often associated with feelings of depth, stability, and professionalism. Due to its darkness, it is crucial to use contrasting colors when using this shade in designs to ensure readability and accessibility. It's a cool-toned color that evokes a sense of calm and serenity, but its darkness can also convey seriousness and formality. It's not commonly found in nature, making it more suitable for digital or designed environments.
The hex color #042444, often referred to as 'Blue Whale,' presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its very dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard light backgrounds like white (#FFFFFF). This can make text or graphical elements using this color difficult for users to read, particularly those with visual impairments such as low vision or color blindness. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to pair #042444 with much lighter colors for text and interactive elements. Following WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) is essential, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Consider using contrast checker tools to verify compliance and explore alternative, lighter shades of blue or complementary colors to improve readability and overall user experience. Adequate spacing and clear typography also play a crucial role in enhancing accessibility when using such a dark color.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds, making it more accessible for users with visual impairments.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to provide a softer contrast with text, improving readability.
- #3cb371
A color with a touch of green, representing tranquility and harmony, suitable for backgrounds or decorative elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web development, #042444 can serve as a sophisticated background color for website headers or footers, creating a strong visual anchor. It can also be used for interactive elements like buttons or call-to-action areas, provided that the text color is a light and contrasting color like white or light yellow. For data visualizations, it can represent a key data point, making sure to pair it with contrasting colors for other data elements to distinguish them effectively. Its depth adds a sense of professionalism and trust to the overall design.
Interior Design
In interior design, #042444 can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, providing a sense of depth and sophistication. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, white, and light gray. It can also be used for furniture upholstery or decorative accessories like throw pillows or curtains. Its calming effect makes it suitable for creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, #042444 shines as a grounding element, lending an air of sophistication to evening wear and professional attire alike. Imagine a sleek cocktail dress, its deep blue hue exuding confidence and mystery, or a well-tailored suit, the color conveying both authority and trustworthiness. This versatile shade also acts as a superb canvas for accessories, enabling a range of statements from bold and dramatic to subtly refined.