Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #053457, is a deep, rich shade of blue that evokes feelings of sophistication and tranquility. It is a dark, muted color that falls within the blue color family, known for its calming and stable characteristics. This color is created by combining a small amount of red and green with a larger proportion of blue in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, it consists of a high percentage of cyan, magenta, and black, with a minimal amount of yellow. Prussian Blue has historical significance, having been discovered accidentally in the early 18th century. Its deep, intense color made it a popular pigment in art and textiles.
The hex color #053457, known as Prussian Blue, presents accessibility challenges due to its low luminance. When used as a foreground color, it requires a very light background to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, especially for users with visual impairments. According to WCAG guidelines, the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using #053457 for text on a white background yields a contrast ratio that falls significantly short of these recommendations. Therefore, it is crucial to pair it with a light color such as #FFFFFF, #F0F0F0 or #E0E0E0 to meet accessibility standards. Alternatively, it can be used for decorative elements where text contrast is not a primary concern or in conjunction with other accessible colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Prussian Blue (#053457) can be effectively used to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It's well-suited for header backgrounds, button accents, and subtle UI elements where a sense of trust and stability is desired. For instance, a financial institution might use it as the primary color for their website to convey reliability. However, it should be used judiciously, balancing its depth with lighter contrasting colors to ensure readability and accessibility. Furthermore, it can be incorporated into website banners and other graphical elements as part of a larger palette, providing visual interest without overwhelming the user.
Interior Design
In interior design, Prussian Blue evokes a sense of tranquility and elegance. This deep blue hue can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a focal point and add depth to the space. It pairs well with neutral colors like beige, gray, and white, allowing it to stand out without overpowering the room. Prussian Blue can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories such as cushions, curtains, and rugs to introduce a touch of sophistication. Furthermore, when combined with metallic accents like gold or silver, Prussian Blue can enhance the luxurious feel of a space.
Fashion
In fashion, Prussian Blue conveys a sense of timeless elegance and understated style. It is a versatile color that can be incorporated into various types of garments, from formal wear to casual attire. A Prussian Blue suit or dress can be a sophisticated choice for professional settings or special occasions. It can also be used as an accent color in accessories like scarves, handbags, and jewelry to add a touch of refinement to any outfit. Moreover, Prussian Blue pairs well with a range of colors, including white, black, gray, and even bolder hues like mustard yellow or burgundy, making it a wardrobe staple.