Smalt
General Information about #053396 (Smalt)
The hexadecimal color #053396, often referred to as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It's composed of 2% red, 20% green, and 59% blue in the RGB color space. In the CMYK color space, it consists of 95% cyan, 66% magenta, 0% yellow, and 41% black. This color is often associated with qualities such as trustworthiness, intelligence, and authority. In color psychology, blue is known to evoke feelings of calmness and serenity, making #053396 suitable for conveying a sense of stability and professionalism. Its richness makes it a popular choice for corporate branding and design, where a sophisticated and reliable image is desired. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding blue cobalt glass.
The color #053396, a deep shade of blue often referred to as Smalt, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its low luminance value means it requires careful pairing with contrasting colors to ensure readability for users, especially those with visual impairments. A light text color, such as white or a very pale yellow, is highly recommended when using #053396 as a background. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Therefore, thorough testing with accessibility tools is crucial to guarantee compliance. Using this color for interactive elements like links or buttons requires clear visual cues beyond just color to ensure users can easily identify and understand their function. Thoughtful implementation is key to creating an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter blue that offers better contrast and visibility, while still maintaining a professional and calming feel.
- #000080
A darker navy blue providing an even more pronounced contrast with lighter text, ideal for situations demanding high legibility.
- #007bff
A vibrant blue, suitable for accents or highlighting elements, bringing energy while maintaining some of the sophistication of #053396.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #053396 can be employed as a background color for website headers or footers, providing a sense of sophistication and trust. It pairs well with a clean, minimalist design aesthetic, often complemented by white or light gray text for optimal readability. The color is also fitting for creating call-to-action buttons, lending a touch of formality and professionalism. However, care should be taken to ensure adequate contrast with the button text to maintain accessibility standards. Furthermore, in data visualization, #053396 can be used to represent specific data sets or categories in charts and graphs, offering a distinct visual cue.
Interior Design
Within interior design, #053396 can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom, creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. This shade of blue pairs well with neutral tones like beige, gray, and white, allowing it to become a focal point without overwhelming the space. For a bolder look, consider using it on furniture pieces like sofas or armchairs, complemented by pops of brighter colors in throw pillows or artwork. In smaller doses, it can be used in decorative items such as vases or picture frames, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to any room.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, #053396 can be used in formal wear, such as suits or dresses, projecting a sense of authority and sophistication. A dress in this color can be accentuated with silver or gold accessories for a polished look. It is also effective in creating professional-looking separates like blouses or trousers, easily paired with neutral colors like black, white, or gray for a classic and versatile style. For a more casual approach, this color can be featured in denim or knitwear, providing a comfortable yet stylish option.