International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue, often abbreviated as IKB, is a deep blue hue first mixed by the French artist Yves Klein. The color's visual impact comes from its heavy reliance on ultramarine, as well as Klein's matte, synthetic resin binder that allows the pigment to retain its brilliance. Yves Klein registered this recipe as a peinture (paint) under the name International Klein Blue (IKB) in 1957. It is specifically ultramarine pigment suspended in a clear synthetic resin. IKB's intense saturation gives it a distinctive quality unlike other shades of blue. It is frequently used in fine art, design, and fashion to create striking visual effects.
The color #0535A7, also known as International Klein Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges due to its dark hue. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended by WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) for normal text and 3:1 for large text. It's crucial to test the color combination with accessibility tools to verify compliance. When used for interactive elements such as buttons or links, consider providing additional visual cues like underlines or borders to aid users with visual impairments or color blindness. Additionally, avoid using this color alone to convey critical information, as it may not be perceivable by all users. Careful consideration of color combinations and supplementary cues is essential to ensure inclusivity and a positive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast with dark text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #47597e
A more muted blue that can be easier on the eyes for prolonged viewing and offers a wider range of accessible text color options.
- #007bff
A vibrant blue that is more accessible. It provides more contrast with white text, without sacrificing the vividness of blue.
Applications
Website Hero Sections
International Klein Blue, with its strong visual impact, can be used to create eye-catching hero sections on websites. Its depth and richness draw attention and can effectively communicate a sense of sophistication or innovation. It's particularly well-suited for technology, art, or creative agency websites where a bold statement is desired. However, judicious use is crucial to prevent visual fatigue and maintain a balanced user experience. Complementary colors and ample whitespace can help mitigate the intensity of the blue.
Interiour Accent Color
This color makes an ideal accent color in minimalist interiour spaces. In a mostly white or neutral colored interiour it gives a touch of color. Use it for artwork, pillows or vases. The intense blue stands out and draws attention.
Call-to-Action Buttons
The bold and striking nature of International Klein Blue makes it an excellent choice for creating impactful call-to-action buttons. Its distinctiveness helps it stand out on a webpage, guiding users toward key interactions. However, it's essential to ensure sufficient contrast with the surrounding elements to maintain readability and accessibility. A well-designed button with appropriate padding and typography enhances the overall user experience. In addition, hover and focus states should be considered to provide clear visual feedback to users.