Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue
Catalina Blue, represented by the hex code #092678, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. In color psychology, blue is often associated with intelligence, efficiency, and security, making it a popular choice for branding and design elements related to technology, finance, and corporate sectors. This particular shade of blue has a sophisticated and authoritative presence, lending itself well to creating a sense of professionalism and reliability. The low lightness and high saturation create a visually impactful color that can be used effectively to draw attention or to establish a strong brand identity. It is important to understand its connotations and how it interacts with other colors to achieve the desired effect.
The hex color #092678, also known as Catalina Blue, presents accessibility challenges due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast for readability, meeting WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using a color contrast checker is crucial to verify compliance. Avoid pairing it with other dark colors, as this will further reduce visibility. Consider providing alternative color schemes for users with visual impairments, allowing them to customize the display for optimal viewing. When using this color for links or interactive elements, ensure a distinct visual cue (e.g., underline, bolding, or a contrasting background on hover) is present to make them easily identifiable. Proper attention to these factors will help create a more inclusive and accessible experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e3a8a
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers improved readability and contrast.
- #33415c
A desaturated blue that provides a softer and more subtle appearance, suitable for backgrounds and secondary elements.
- #00082f
A darker blue, very close to black, giving a sophisticated look.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Catalina Blue can be used to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It's particularly effective for headers, navigation bars, and backgrounds, especially in websites related to technology, finance, or corporate services. However, it is important to always make sure the contrast with the foreground elements (text, icons) is high enough to make it accessible to all users. It can also be incorporated as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements on the webpage. Consider pairing it with lighter shades of blue, white, or gray to balance the overall visual impact and enhance readability.
Interior Design
In interior design, Catalina Blue can bring a calming and luxurious ambiance to spaces like bedrooms or studies. It works well on accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories. Combine it with neutral colors like beige, gray, or white to create a balanced and inviting atmosphere. To add warmth, consider incorporating natural materials like wood or metallic accents such as gold or brass. This color can also be used in commercial spaces such as reception areas or waiting rooms to convey a sense of professionalism and stability.
Fashion
Catalina Blue is a popular choice in fashion for evening wear, formal attire, and accessories. Its rich hue adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to garments. It pairs well with metallic accents like silver or gold for a glamorous look, or with contrasting colors like white or red for a bolder statement. In casual wear, it can be used for denim, sweaters, or outerwear, providing a versatile and stylish option. Incorporating this color into accessories like scarves, handbags, or shoes can add a pop of color to any outfit.