Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue (#081F77)
The hex color code #081F77, also known as Catalina Blue, is a dark, saturated shade of blue. It is composed of 3.14% red, 12.16% green, and 46.67% blue. In the RGB color model, this equates to R:8, G:31, B:119. The corresponding CMYK color values are C:93, M:74, Y:0, K:53. Catalina Blue evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. Colors similar to this can be found in the deep ocean and twilight skies. This color is often associated with trust, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design in corporate settings. The limited red and green saturation contributes to its cool and calming effect, distinct from brighter, more energetic blues.
The color #081F77, also known as Catalina Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it falls far short of the WCAG guidelines for contrast ratio, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. Similarly, using white text on a #081F77 background can also pose readability issues. To improve accessibility, consider pairing Catalina Blue with much lighter shades of yellow, white, or green to ensure sufficient contrast. Tools like WebAIM's contrast checker can be valuable in verifying compliance. Careful consideration of font size and weight can also partially alleviate contrast issues, but adjusting the color scheme remains the most effective approach to enhance accessibility. Ensure interactive elements meet a minimum contrast ratio of 3:1 against adjacent colors.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #223399
A slightly lighter shade of blue that improves readability without straying far from the original hue.
- #cccccc
A neutral gray tone provides a safe and accessible background when the primary color is used for accents.
- #ffffe0
A light yellow will guarantee a good contrast when used with #081F77 for text and background.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Catalina Blue can serve as a sophisticated accent color for headers, buttons, or navigation bars. Its depth evokes trust and stability, making it suitable for financial or corporate websites. However, mindful application is crucial; overuse can overwhelm the user, and pairing it with contrasting colors, such as yellows or lighter blues, is essential to ensure readability and visual balance. Consider using it sparingly for highlights and interactive elements to draw attention without sacrificing user experience. Also, ensure your website is still accessible for visually impaired users.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Catalina Blue can create a calming and elegant atmosphere, especially in bedrooms or studies. It pairs well with light woods, neutral tones, and metallic accents like gold or silver. Consider using it as an accent wall color or for upholstery to add depth and sophistication to a room. Balancing it with warm, complementary colors can prevent the space from feeling too cold or sterile. For example, incorporating warm lighting or natural textures can enhance the overall ambiance.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Catalina Blue is a versatile color that can be used for both casual and formal wear. It works well as a statement color for dresses, suits, or outerwear, or as an accent color for accessories like scarves or handbags. Pairing it with neutral colors like black, white, or gray creates a classic and sophisticated look, while combining it with brighter colors like yellow or pink adds a playful and vibrant touch. The color is suitable for a wide variety of events, such as business meetings or cocktail parties.