International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
International Klein Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #071BAD, is a deep, intense shade of blue named after the French artist Yves Klein. Klein patented this specific hue to ensure its exclusive association with his artwork, particularly his monochrome paintings. The color is characterized by its rich saturation and near-ultramarine appearance. In the RGB color model, #071BAD consists of 0.03 red, 0.10 green, and 0.67 blue. Its CMYK values are 100 cyan, 84 magenta, 0 yellow, and 33 black. The color evokes feelings of depth, infinity, and transcendence, aligning with Klein's artistic vision. It is an iconic color in the art world.
The hex color #071BAD, also known as International Klein Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its extremely low lightness value of approximately 4% means that text or interactive elements using this color as a background are unlikely to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. The contrast ratio against white is very poor, failing all levels of compliance (AA and AAA). To ensure accessibility, it's crucial to use this color sparingly, particularly for text or UI components. When using #071BAD, employ a very light color for text or interactive elements to achieve sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers are essential to verify compliance. Consider using this color primarily for decorative elements or as a background for large graphical elements, where text contrast is not a primary concern. A thorough accessibility audit is recommended when incorporating this intense color into a design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Website Hero Sections
International Klein Blue's unique, captivating hue makes it an excellent choice for creating visually striking website hero sections. It can serve as a full-screen background or a prominent accent color, drawing visitors' eyes and setting a bold tone. To maintain accessibility, pair it with very light or white text and ensure interactive elements have sufficient contrast. The color can also be used selectively to highlight key calls to action or important information, creating a memorable and engaging user experience. Moreover, its association with creativity and innovation can be beneficial for websites promoting artistic or technological endeavors.
Fashion Design
In the realm of fashion, #071BAD, or International Klein Blue, is often used to create statement pieces that capture attention. It can be incorporated into dresses, suits, or accessories to make a bold fashion statement. The color's intensity and depth add a sense of luxury and sophistication, making it suitable for high-end fashion designs. When used in fashion, it's often paired with neutral colors like white, black, or gray to balance its vibrancy and prevent it from being overwhelming. The color works well in formal wear for evening galas, or as accents in everyday wear.
Interior Design Accents
This colour can work as a vibrant highlight in interior design, to accentuate key areas or items in a room. For example, imagine a living room furnished in neutral tones, where a single wall painted in a deep blue colour becomes the focal point, instantly injecting depth and personality into the space. Alternatively, it could be used for decorative items such as cushions, lampshades, or artworks, adding pops of interest and creating a sense of balance. This colour should not be used as the primary colour in the room as it can be overwhelming.