Prussian Blue
General Information about Prussian Blue
Prussian Blue, represented by the hexadecimal color code #083355, is a dark, rich shade of blue with historical significance, dating back to its accidental discovery in the early 18th century. It is characterized by its deep, almost metallic appearance, and is chemically a complex iron cyanide. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.14% red, 20% green, and 33.33% blue. Its CMYK values are 91% cyan, 47% magenta, 0% yellow, and 67% black. Prussian Blue is known for its use as a pigment in paints and dyes, valued for its stability and intense color. Its versatility extends to various applications, including printing inks, industrial coatings, and even medical treatments. The color evokes feelings of sophistication, depth, and stability.
The hex color #083355, a deep shade of Prussian Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly regarding contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates very light text to ensure readability for individuals with visual impairments. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text according to WCAG guidelines. This color's low luminance value means that many standard text colors will not meet these requirements. Careful consideration should be given to font size, weight, and color to maximize legibility. Tools such as contrast checkers should be employed to verify compliance. Furthermore, avoid using this color for essential interface elements without proper contrast, as it can create barriers for users with low vision or color blindness. Providing alternative high-contrast themes is also a good practice to enhance inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #224566
A slightly lighter shade of blue, #224566, maintains a similar aesthetic while offering improved contrast against white text, making it a more accessible choice for body text and user interface elements.
- #001a33
For situations demanding higher contrast, #001A33 provides a deeper, richer tone that, when paired with lighter shades, offers a visually striking and accessible color palette.
- #336699
If a brighter tone is desired while keeping blue, #336699 is a color with better accessibility, as it's lighter while keeping the similar aesthetic.
Applications
Website Headers and Footers
Prussian Blue, with its depth and sophistication, lends itself beautifully to website headers and footers. Its calming yet authoritative presence establishes a professional tone, particularly suitable for corporate or educational platforms. When combined with a clean, minimalist design and strategically placed white space, it can create an impactful and user-friendly online experience. It is well-suited for navigation bars, providing a solid and reliable backdrop for essential links and site information. By using it strategically, the visual hierarchy and user navigation can be enhanced.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #083355 can be employed as an accent wall color to evoke a sense of tranquility and focus in workspaces or bedrooms. When paired with lighter, neutral tones, it creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere, fostering productivity and relaxation. This color works well in rooms with ample natural light, where its depth is highlighted without feeling overwhelming. Consider incorporating this hue in textiles like curtains or throw pillows to add subtle depth to a space, maintaining a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, Prussian Blue can be an elegant choice for evening wear or sophisticated outerwear. Its richness complements a variety of skin tones and adds a touch of timelessness to any ensemble. Consider it for statement pieces such as blazers, dresses, or coats. When used in accessories like scarves or handbags, it provides a subtle pop of color without overpowering the overall look. Because of its classical look, the color provides a sense of sophistication.