International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue (IKB), represented by the hexadecimal color code #052DAF, is a deep, vivid shade of blue that was developed by the French artist Yves Klein. Klein registered this color as a trademark in 1957, emphasizing its unique and ultramarine character. IKB achieves its intensity through the suspension of pure color pigment in a synthetic resin, which allows the pigment to retain its brilliance and saturation. The color has since become synonymous with Klein's artistic explorations and is often associated with concepts of spirituality, transcendence, and the infinite. Its distinctive and mesmerizing quality makes it a visually striking and recognizable hue in art, design, and culture.
International Klein Blue, with its deep and saturated hue, presents significant accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value (relative lightness) means that it offers insufficient contrast when paired with lighter colors like white or yellow. This can make text difficult to read for individuals with low vision or color blindness. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using International Klein Blue as a background or text color requires careful consideration and the use of significantly lighter foreground colors to ensure readability. Alternative strategies include adding a background or text shadow or using a high-contrast color combination to improve accessibility. Always test color combinations with accessibility tools to verify compliance.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds.
- #4682b4
A more muted blue that is easier on the eyes and works well in minimalist designs.
- #007bff
A vibrant shade of blue that is useful for attracting the attention, while maintaining a level of visual comfort.
Applications
Branding
International Klein Blue is often used in branding to convey a sense of sophistication and creativity. Its unique and recognizable hue makes it ideal for logos and visual identities that aim to stand out. It is often associated with innovation and trustworthiness.
Web Design
In web design, this color can be used sparingly as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements or buttons. Due to its intensity, it's important to balance it with more neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the user.
Fashion
In fashion, International Klein Blue can be used to create bold and statement pieces. It is a popular color for dresses, accessories, and outerwear, and is often paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray to create a striking contrast. It is often used by clothing brands that aim to stand out with something unique.