Blue Whale
General Information about #042A46
The hex color #042A46, often referred to as "Blue Whale", is a dark, muted shade of blue that exudes sophistication and depth. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 1.57% red, 16.47% green, and 27.45% blue. This composition results in a color that is perceived as calming and professional. The color is often associated with qualities such as stability, trust, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design purposes. Its low saturation gives it a subtle, understated elegance, distinguishing it from brighter, more vibrant blues. Blue Whale's versatility allows it to be used in various contexts, from corporate websites to interior design, adding a touch of refinement and seriousness wherever it is applied. Its dark nature also means it works best with lighter colors to create contrast and readability.
The hex color #042A46, also known as Blue Whale, presents several accessibility considerations, particularly for text and interactive elements. Due to its dark nature, using this color as a background necessitates light-colored text to ensure sufficient contrast. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to meet WCAG AA standards. For enhanced accessibility (WCAG AAA), the contrast ratios should be even higher (7:1 and 4.5:1 respectively). When using #042A46 for interactive elements such as buttons or links, clear visual cues beyond color alone, like underlines or borders, are crucial. Also consider users with low vision or color blindness who may have difficulty distinguishing between similar dark shades. Proper testing with accessibility tools and real user feedback is essential to validate the design's usability for all users. Furthermore, providing options for users to adjust the color scheme can significantly improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a5f
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved contrast when used with darker text.
- #02182b
A darker shade of blue, providing a more intense and dramatic feel, suitable for backgrounds where readability is less critical.
- #5f9ea0
A desaturated grey-blue that can be used for backgrounds for a more neutral look.
Applications
Website Background
In web design, #042A46 can be used as a primary background color for websites aiming for a sophisticated and professional look. Its dark hue pairs well with light-colored text and minimalist design elements. It's particularly effective for finance, technology, or corporate websites where trustworthiness and stability are key messages. Furthermore, it can be combined with accent colors like gold or teal to create a visually appealing and balanced interface. The color evokes a sense of depth and can be used in gradients to give a more dynamic visual effect to web pages.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #042A46 can be used as an accent wall color to add depth and drama to a room. It works especially well in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Paired with lighter furniture and decor, it creates a balanced and inviting space. The color is also a great choice for creating a sophisticated mood in home offices or studies, fostering a sense of focus and concentration.
Fashion garment
#042A46 is a great base for fashion designs. It can be used as a strong base color for a garment and can easily be combined with golden or silver accents. As Blue Whale is a desaturated color, it gives a feeling of stability.