Smalt
General Information about Smalt
The color #0A3591, commonly known as Smalt, is a deep, saturated blue hue belonging to the blue color family. In the RGB color model, it consists of 3.92% red, 21.57% green, and 56.86% blue. Its hexadecimal representation is #0A3591, making it easily identifiable and usable in digital design. Smalt derives its name from the finely ground potassium glass containing cobalt, traditionally used as a pigment. Historically, it was employed in various artistic applications, including painting, ceramics, and textile dyeing. The color evokes feelings of calmness, stability, and trust, making it a popular choice for branding and visual communication in industries such as finance, technology, and healthcare. Its depth and richness also lend it an air of sophistication and elegance.
The hex color #0A3591, a deep shade of blue, presents specific accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a foreground color for text or interactive elements, it requires careful consideration of the background color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Given the darkness of #0A3591, lighter background colors are essential to meet these contrast requirements. White, light gray, or pale yellow backgrounds are preferable. When used for decorative purposes, it's crucial to avoid relying solely on color to convey important information. Providing supplementary cues like text labels or icons is important to ensure that all users can understand the content. Adequate spacing around elements using this color also improves usability. Proper testing with color contrast analyzers and assistive technologies is highly recommended to guarantee inclusivity.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Smalt (#0A3591) can serve as an elegant choice for website headers and navigation bars, lending a touch of sophistication and professionalism. It pairs well with lighter neutral colors for text, ensuring readability and a clean user experience. In user interface design, this color can highlight important buttons or interactive elements, drawing the user's attention without being overly distracting. Its calming yet authoritative presence makes it suitable for websites in the fields of finance, technology, or education, where trust and reliability are paramount. This color creates a visual identity that conveys both stability and innovation.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt (#0A3591) can be used as an accent color to add depth and drama to a room. Consider using it for a feature wall in a living room or bedroom, or as the color for upholstered furniture like sofas or chairs. This color can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially when combined with warm lighting and natural textures such as wood or wool. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, or cream, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. This creates a sophisticated and balanced look that is both stylish and comfortable. Try painting the walls in the sleeping room with it!
Fashion
In fashion, Smalt (#0A3591) can be incorporated into both casual and formal wear to create a statement. Use it for dresses, suits, or outerwear to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wardrobe. This color works well with a variety of other colors, including neutrals like black, white, and gray, as well as brighter colors like red, yellow, and green. It can also be used for accessories like scarves, handbags, and shoes to add a pop of color to an outfit. Consider a smalt-colored blazer paired with neutral trousers for a chic and professional look, or a flowing smalt dress for an evening event.