Prussian Blue
About Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hex code #043553, is a deep, rich shade of blue with a slight greenish undertone. It is named after the pigment 'Prussian blue', which was first synthesized in the early 18th century. This pigment is known for its intense color and stability, making it a popular choice for artists and dyers. In the RGB color model, #043553 is composed of 1.6% red, 21.6% green, and 32.5% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 95% cyan, 34% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. The color is often associated with qualities such as trust, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and formal wear. Its deep tone evokes a sense of depth and sophistication.
The hex color #043553, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means it offers very little contrast against similarly dark backgrounds, rendering text illegible for many users. To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with light backgrounds, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as recommended by WCAG guidelines. White (#FFFFFF) or very light shades of yellow or cyan would be suitable choices. Also consider providing alternative visual cues or labels for users with color vision deficiencies, as relying solely on color to convey information can exclude a portion of the audience. Developers should use contrast checker tools to verify compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Prussian Blue can be used as a sophisticated background color for headers or sidebars, especially for websites related to finance, technology, or education. It evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for brands that want to project reliability. However, due to its darkness, it should be paired with bright, contrasting text (like white or a light yellow) to ensure readability and accessibility. Avoid using it for large blocks of text or interactive elements without careful consideration of contrast ratios. As a background for buttons, the color can give a serious, professional tone.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Prussian Blue can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. The dark color absorbs light, making the space feel cozier. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and leather, as well as metallic accents like gold or brass. It is best used in rooms with ample natural light to prevent the space from feeling too dark and confined. It can also serve as the primary color for upholstered furniture, providing a dramatic contrast to lighter walls and floors.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Prussian Blue can be used for elegant evening wear or formal business attire. A Prussian Blue dress or suit exudes confidence and sophistication. It pairs well with silver or gold accessories and can be accessorized with pops of brighter colors like fuchsia or emerald green for added visual interest. As an accent color in patterns, Prussian Blue offers a grounding element that is more interesting than black, but equally versatile. It is also an excellent choice for outerwear, providing a classic and timeless look.