Smalt
General Information About Smalt
The hex color code #072E90, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue. It is composed of 2.75% red, 18.43% green, and 56.08% blue. In the RGB color model, #072E90 has RGB values of 7, 46, and 144. This color is frequently associated with depth, stability, and intelligence. It often evokes feelings of trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth, and heaven. Due to its deep saturation, it is often used in designs where a sense of authority or elegance is desired. The color is named after smalt, a blue pigment made by grinding cobalt glass.
The color #072E90, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly for users with visual impairments. Its low lightness value of 9% results in poor contrast against common background colors like white. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability. Smalt falls far short of these recommendations when paired with light backgrounds, making text difficult to discern. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to use Smalt with very light or contrasting colors. Consider using a lighter tint of blue or a yellow hue to ensure the contrast is high enough for people with low vision or color blindness. Also, avoid using this color for crucial user interface elements without proper contrast adjustments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, #072E90 can be used for headers or as an accent color, provided sufficient contrast with the background and text is ensured. It's suitable for creating a sense of depth or sophistication. However, avoid using it for primary interactive elements like buttons or links without a lighter contrasting color to ensure accessibility.
Interior Design Accent Wall
In interior design, Smalt (#072E90) can serve as a deep, grounding color in a room. Imagine it as a wall color in a study or library, paired with lighter-colored furniture and accents to create a balanced and inviting space. The richness of Smalt can evoke feelings of calm and focus, making it suitable for areas dedicated to work or relaxation. The key is to balance its darkness with brighter elements to prevent the room from feeling too enclosed or somber.
Fashion: Formal Wear
The deep, sophisticated tone of Smalt makes it a compelling choice for formal wear. Envision a velvet blazer or a silk dress in this color, paired with metallic accessories for a touch of glamour. It's a color that exudes confidence and elegance, making it suitable for evening events or occasions where a polished and refined appearance is desired. Consider the fabric and the setting to ensure the color complements the overall aesthetic.