Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#093992)
The hexadecimal color #093992, commonly known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family and is characterized by its relatively low lightness value and high chroma. Smalt derives its name from the pigment traditionally made by grinding cobalt glass, which was used extensively in paintings and ceramics. This color evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for branding and design projects where these qualities are desired. It is often associated with professionalism and reliability, making it suitable for use in corporate identities and financial institutions. In color theory, Smalt is a cool color, which means it tends to recede visually and can create a sense of depth and space. This makes it useful for creating backgrounds and accentuating foreground elements.
The color #093992, a deep shade of blue, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly when used as a text color. Due to its low luminance, it requires careful consideration of contrast ratios to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. 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 (14pt bold or 18pt regular). Using #093992 for text on a white background may not meet these standards, potentially causing difficulty for users with low vision or color blindness. To improve accessibility, it's advisable to pair this color with lighter shades such as white, light yellow, or pale gray. Furthermore, consider using larger font sizes or adding a text shadow or outline to enhance contrast and readability. When employing this color for interactive elements, ensure sufficient visual cues, such as hover effects or underlines, to indicate interactivity and improve usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast against white backgrounds, enhancing readability and accessibility.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used to create a striking visual impact while still maintaining a reasonable level of contrast.
- #6495ed
A softer, more muted blue that offers a calming and sophisticated aesthetic while maintaining decent readability.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #093992 can be employed for creating visually appealing website headers, navigation bars, and background elements, especially when aiming for a professional and trustworthy aesthetic. It evokes feelings of stability and security, making it suitable for financial institutions or corporate websites. However, it's crucial to use it sparingly and strategically, ensuring adequate contrast with text and other elements to maintain readability and accessibility. When using this color for buttons or interactive elements, make sure there's sufficient visual feedback, such as hover effects or color changes, to indicate interactivity and improve user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, #093992 can be used as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative elements to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like white, gray, and beige, as well as warmer tones like gold and wood finishes. This color can be incorporated into bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices to promote relaxation and concentration. However, it's essential to balance the use of this dark blue with lighter shades to prevent the room from feeling too dark or gloomy. Consider using mirrors or strategic lighting to brighten up the space and enhance the overall ambiance.
Fashion Design
In fashion design, #093992 can be utilized for creating elegant and timeless clothing pieces, such as dresses, suits, or outerwear. It complements various skin tones and can be combined with other colors like white, black, or silver for a sophisticated look. This color is suitable for both formal and casual wear, depending on the fabric and design. When using this color in clothing, consider the occasion and the overall style you want to achieve. Accessorize with contrasting colors to add visual interest and personalize your outfit.