Blue Whale
General Information
#0A324E, also known as Blue Whale, is a deep, dark shade of blue with a subtle hint of green. It belongs to the family of cool colors and evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and sophistication. This color is often associated with trust, reliability, and intelligence. In color psychology, dark blues are often used to represent knowledge, power, integrity, and seriousness. It is a versatile color that can be used in various design applications, ranging from corporate branding to interior design. Its hexadecimal code indicates that it comprises a small amount of red, a moderate amount of green, and a relatively high amount of blue, resulting in its distinctive hue.
The hex color #0A324E, also known as Blue Whale, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When using this color for text or interactive elements, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Using contrast checking tools can help verify compliance. Given the darkness of #0A324E, lighter colors like whites, creams, or light yellows are suitable choices for foreground elements. Additionally, avoid pairing it with other dark shades, as this can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Providing alternative visual cues, such as icons or labels, can further improve usability for all users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1e40af
A slightly lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #cccccc
A neutral gray that complements #0A324E and provides a safe option for text and background combinations.
- #14425e
This color is similar, but has a touch more luminance, providing better readability on screens.
Applications
Corporate Web Design
In web design, #0A324E can be utilized to create a sophisticated and calming atmosphere, particularly for websites related to finance, technology, or healthcare. Its dark hue is suitable for headers, footers, or background elements, especially when paired with lighter text and contrasting accents. To ensure readability, it's important to use lighter colors for text on this background. This color evokes feelings of trust, stability, and professionalism, making it ideal for corporate branding and user interfaces aimed at instilling confidence.
Fashion and Interior Design
#0A324E can be a stunning choice for evening wear or formal attire, exuding elegance and mystery. It works well for dresses, suits, or accessories, especially when paired with metallic accents or subtle embellishments. As a nail color, it offers a chic and understated look. In interior design, this color can be used to create a cozy and intimate setting. Use it for accent walls, upholstery, or decorative accessories in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. Pair it with warm neutrals and natural materials to create a balanced and inviting space.
Data Visualization
This dark blue works excellently in data visualization. It can represent depth or intensity in charts and graphs without being overly bright or distracting. When used thoughtfully, it allows viewers to easily interpret complex data sets. For example, a map displaying population density can use varying shades of #0A324E, where darker hues indicate higher concentrations.