Smalt

General Information about #042A97

The hex color #042A97, also known as Smalt, is a deep, rich shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and has a relatively low lightness value, contributing to its dark appearance. In the RGB color model, #042A97 is composed of 0.78% red, 16.47% green, and 59.22% blue. This composition gives it a strong blue dominance with a subtle hint of green. Smalt derives its name from a historical blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. This color evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. It is often associated with trust, intelligence, and calmness. Because of its nature, it can be found in brands that want to convey trust to their customer base.

The hex color #042A97, a deep shade of blue, presents accessibility challenges, particularly when used as text against a white or light-colored background. Its low luminance results in insufficient contrast, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to read the text. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal-sized text and 3:1 for large text. Using #042A97 as text on a white background falls significantly short of these requirements. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of blue or pairing it with a light color like white or a very light yellow to achieve sufficient contrast. Also, avoid using it for essential UI elements such as buttons or links without proper contrast, as users might struggle to identify and interact with them.

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Alternative colors

Applications

• Web Design

  In web design, #042A97 can be effectively used for header backgrounds or as a secondary color to add depth and sophistication. It should be paired with lighter accent colors to ensure readability and visual balance. For instance, using it for website navigation bars or section dividers can provide a professional and clean look. Avoid using it for body text unless paired with a very light background to maintain accessibility standards. The color's richness makes it suitable for highlighting important content, such as call-to-action buttons when complemented by a bright text color.

• Interior Design

  In interior design, Smalt (#042A97) can be used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It works well as an accent wall color in bedrooms or living rooms, especially when paired with lighter neutrals like beige or light gray. The color can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories such as pillows and throws to add a touch of elegance and depth to the space. When using #042A97, ensure the room has ample lighting to prevent it from appearing too dark or overwhelming.

• Fashion

  In the realm of fashion, #042A97 can be utilized to create eye-catching and unique outfits. Consider incorporating it into evening wear for a touch of elegance, or use it as an accent color in accessories like scarves or handbags to add sophistication to a casual ensemble. Due to its deep hue, it works best when paired with lighter fabrics or other complementary colors to create visual balance. It also works as an accent for shoes.

Complementary color

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