Blue Whale
General Information
The hex color #0A2B45, often referred to as "Blue Whale," is a dark, muted shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 3.92% red, 16.86% green, and 27.06% blue. This combination results in a color that evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trustworthiness. In the CMYK color model, which is used for printing, #0A2B45 consists of 85% cyan, 38% magenta, 0% yellow, and 73% black. This indicates that it's a color that requires a significant amount of cyan to achieve its specific hue. Due to its dark nature, it's often used in contexts where a sense of depth, sophistication, or reliability is desired. The name "Blue Whale" further emphasizes the color's association with the ocean, evoking feelings of vastness and serenity.
The hex color #0a2b45, also known as Blue Whale, presents some accessibility challenges. Its low luminance value of approximately 3% means it offers very little contrast against a standard white background. This lack of contrast can make text and other visual elements difficult to read, especially for users with visual impairments or color blindness. To improve accessibility, it is crucial to use this color with a light background or text color that provides sufficient contrast, adhering to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text is recommended to ensure readability for a wide range of users. Consider using online contrast checkers to verify compliance and explore alternative color combinations that offer better accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, #0a2b45 can serve as a sophisticated background color for headers or footers, creating a sense of depth and professionalism. It works particularly well in industries aiming to project trustworthiness and stability, such as finance or law. When used sparingly as a background, it is essential to pair it with light, contrasting text to ensure readability. For example, white or light yellow text would stand out well against this dark blue. Avoid using it for large blocks of text, as the low contrast can strain the eyes and hinder readability. This color can also be used for graphical elements, such as icons and buttons, to add subtle visual interest to a website without overwhelming the user.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #0a2b45 can be used as an accent color to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral tones such as gray, beige, and white. For instance, it can be used to paint an accent wall in a living room or bedroom, creating a focal point that adds depth and visual interest to the space. When using this color, it is important to consider the lighting of the room, as it can appear darker in poorly lit areas. Complementary colors such as gold or mustard yellow can be used to add warmth and contrast to the space.
Fashion Apparel
In fashion, #0a2b45 can be used as a primary or accent color in clothing and accessories to convey a sense of understated elegance and sophistication. It works particularly well in formal wear, such as suits and dresses, creating a timeless and classic look. The color can be paired with other neutral colors such as gray or black for a professional look. It can also be used to create a monochromatic look, pairing different shades of blue together. When using this color in accessories, such as scarves or handbags, it is essential to consider the overall outfit and choose complementary colors to create a balanced and visually appealing look.