Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#0A3091)
The color #0A3091, commonly referred to as Smalt, is a deep, saturated shade of blue. Smalt derives its name from the historical use of cobalt-containing glass that was ground into a pigment. It is located in the blue region of the color spectrum, closer to indigo than cyan. Its hex code, #0A3091, indicates the specific combination of red, green, and blue light that produces this particular hue. In RGB color space, it consists of a low amount of red, a moderate amount of green, and a high amount of blue. This color often evokes feelings of trust, authority, and stability, making it a popular choice for various applications in design and branding. Its richness allows it to be either a primary focal point or a subtle accent color, depending on the desired effect.
The hex color #0A3091, also known as Smalt, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as a background color for text, it's crucial to choose a foreground color that provides sufficient contrast to ensure readability. White or very light shades of yellow or green are recommended as foreground colors to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. Conversely, using dark text on a #0A3091 background would likely result in poor readability and accessibility issues, especially for users with visual impairments. It's always advisable to test color combinations with accessibility tools to ensure compliance and a positive user experience. Considering the depth of the blue, using it for large graphical elements or as an accent color can be effective without compromising accessibility. Proper use of color and attention to contrast are essential for inclusive design.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #144272
Provides a similar deep blue aesthetic with slightly better contrast when paired with lighter text.
- #36454f
Offers a brighter alternative while maintaining a sense of sophistication, enhancing readability in various applications.
- #4682b4
A softer alternative, useful for backgrounds where a less intense blue is desired, improving user comfort.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Smalt (#0A3091) can be used for header backgrounds to establish a sense of authority and trust. It is also suitable for call-to-action buttons when paired with a contrasting color like yellow or white to grab attention. The deep blue hue evokes a feeling of professionalism, making it ideal for corporate websites or financial applications. This color is best used sparingly as a dominant color, but it works well for navigational elements and accents, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing user interface. Its richness can also be leveraged in data visualizations to differentiate categories or highlight key information effectively.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt (#0A3091) can serve as an accent wall color in a modern living room or bedroom, providing a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral tones like gray, beige, and white. The color can also be incorporated through furniture pieces or decorative items such as throw pillows, rugs, and artwork. For a luxurious touch, consider using Smalt in velvet or silk fabrics. Combining it with metallic accents like gold or brass can further elevate the room's elegance. Ensure sufficient lighting to prevent the color from making the space feel too dark.
Fashion
In the realm of fashion, Smalt (#0A3091) can be a standout color for evening wear, lending an air of sophistication and mystery. It works exceptionally well for velvet dresses or silk scarves, adding depth and richness to the fabric. When incorporating this color into an outfit, consider pairing it with metallic accessories like silver or gold jewelry to enhance its luxurious appeal. For a more casual look, Smalt can be used in denim or knitwear. Pairing it with lighter colors such as cream or pastel shades can create a balanced and stylish ensemble suitable for various occasions.