Blue Whale
General Information about #0B304C
The hex color #0B304C, often referred to as "Blue Whale," is a deep, muted shade of blue that conveys a sense of calmness, stability, and sophistication. It belongs to the family of dark blues, characterized by its low saturation and relatively low brightness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 11 red, 48 green, and 76 blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of approximately 86% cyan, 37% magenta, 0% yellow, and 70% black. Colors like #0B304C are frequently employed in branding and design to evoke feelings of trust, reliability, and professionalism. Its somber tone makes it suitable for backgrounds and accents in contexts where a sense of seriousness and authority is desired. The color is most effective when contrasted with lighter hues to ensure legibility and visual appeal.
The hex color #0B304C, also known as Blue Whale, presents certain accessibility considerations, particularly in web design. Its dark hue means that sufficient contrast is crucial when pairing it with text or other foreground elements. 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 to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1, respectively. Using a color contrast checker is highly recommended to ensure that the combination of #0B304C with other colors meets these standards. Lighter colors, such as whites, yellows, or light blues, are typically better choices for text or interactive elements on a #0B304C background, ensuring readability and usability for individuals with visual impairments. Designers should avoid pairing it with dark grays or other deep shades to prevent accessibility issues.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #1c4567
A slightly lighter shade of blue provides better contrast for text while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #344756
A desaturated gray-blue can serve as a neutral background alternative, offering improved readability.
- #1e90ff
A more vibrant blue offers better visibility and can be used as an accent color.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0B304C can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for websites in the technology, finance, or consulting industries. It is suitable for backgrounds, headers, or sidebars, and should be paired with lighter text colors for optimal readability. The color evokes feelings of trust, stability, and intelligence, making it ideal for brands that want to project an image of reliability and expertise. Combining this color with subtle gradients or textures can add depth and visual interest, enhancing the overall user experience.
Interior Design
In interior design, Blue Whale can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms to create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, as well as metallic accents like gold or silver. The color can also be used in furniture upholstery or decorative accessories such as cushions, throws, or artwork. To balance the darkness of the color, incorporate plenty of natural light and lighter-colored furniture and accessories.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, #0B304C can be used for creating elegant and understated apparel, such as dresses, suits, or outerwear. It can be paired with lighter colors like cream or beige for a classic and sophisticated look, or with bolder colors like red or yellow for a more contemporary and edgy style. The color is suitable for both casual and formal wear and can be accessorized with metallic jewelry or colorful scarves. Blue Whale conveys a sense of confidence and refinement, making it a popular choice for designers and fashion enthusiasts alike.