Smalt
General Information about #073391 (Smalt)
The hex color #073391, known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated blue hue often associated with sophistication, intellect, and authority. It's a color that evokes a sense of calmness and stability, making it a popular choice in various design fields. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding cobalt glass. In the RGB color model, #073391 consists of 2.75% red, 20% green, and 56.86% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 95% cyan, 64% magenta, 0% yellow, and 43% black. This color is best used to create depth and contrast, and when carefully paired with complementary or contrasting colors, it can create visually appealing and engaging designs. It's important to consider the psychological impact of such a deep color, ensuring it aligns with the intended message.
The hex color #073391, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text to ensure sufficient contrast for readability. 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. Given its darkness, it’s essential to test color combinations using accessibility tools to meet these standards. Using it for interactive elements like buttons or links also requires careful consideration of focus states to ensure they are clearly visible. Visually impaired users rely on sufficient contrast to perceive content effectively, and failure to provide adequate contrast can exclude them from accessing information. Therefore, when incorporating #073391 in designs, prioritize high-contrast pairings to maintain inclusive user experiences.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e90ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #808080
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color, providing a more subtle and accessible contrast for various text colors.
- #008080
A dark teal color offering a sophisticated and less intense alternative, while still providing good contrast when paired appropriately.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #073391 can be used for header backgrounds to create a sophisticated and professional look. However, it is crucial to pair it with very light, contrasting text to ensure readability and accessibility. It can also be incorporated into website navigation menus and buttons, provided that the hover and active states are clearly defined with accessible color combinations. This color evokes a sense of authority and trust, making it suitable for websites in the finance, education, or technology sectors, where credibility is paramount. Careful attention to color contrast is essential to avoid visual fatigue and ensure an inclusive user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #073391 can be used as an accent color in rooms to add depth and a touch of elegance. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or white, creating a balanced and calming atmosphere. For example, it can be used for painting a feature wall or selecting furniture pieces like sofas or armchairs. This deep blue hue can bring a sense of sophistication to living rooms, bedrooms, or studies. When used in moderation and balanced with lighter tones, #073391 can create a visually appealing and harmonious space.
Fashion
In fashion, #073391 can be used as a statement color for evening wear or formal attire. It exudes confidence and sophistication, making it suitable for dresses, suits, or accessories like scarves and ties. This deep blue shade can be paired with metallic accents like gold or silver for a glamorous look, or with neutral colors like black or white for a more classic and understated style. Using #073391 in fashion can convey a sense of elegance and professionalism, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.