Smalt
General Information about Smalt
The color #0B318D, commonly known as Smalt, is a deep and intense shade of blue. It belongs to the blue color family, characterized by its strong presence and association with qualities like trust, stability, and sophistication. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding blue glass containing cobalt. This pigment was widely used in various art forms, including paintings and ceramics, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, #0B318D is often used in digital media, graphic design, and branding to evoke a sense of reliability and professionalism. Its rich tone makes it an excellent choice for creating contrast and depth in visual compositions. The color's hexadecimal code provides a precise way to reproduce it consistently across different platforms and devices.
The color #0B318D, a deep shade of blue, presents certain accessibility considerations. Due to its darkness, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used as text or as a background. A light text color, such as white or a pale yellow, is recommended to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. This ensures readability for users with visual impairments. Avoid pairing this color with other dark shades, as it can make content difficult to distinguish. In user interface design, consider using this color for larger elements or as an accent color, reserving brighter colors for interactive elements to guide the user's attention. When utilizing this color, provide sufficient alternatives for users with color blindness, such as labels or icons. For instance, if using color to indicate a status, add a text indicator to clearly define the states. To achieve this, proper evaluation and testing are highly recommended with accessibility tools and diverse user groups.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Corporate Branding and Web Design
Smalt (#0B318D) can be used as a primary color for branding that wants to convey trust and stability. Its deep, rich tone can be incorporated into logos, website designs, and marketing materials. In web design, this color can be used for headers, footers, and call-to-action buttons to draw attention and create a professional look. Moreover, Smalt can be effectively used in data visualization, especially in charts and graphs where different shades of blue can represent varying data values. The color evokes a sense of sophistication, making it suitable for industries such as finance, technology, and education. Its calming effect can also be harnessed in applications related to wellness and mindfulness, creating a serene and reliable user experience.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Smalt can serve as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, providing a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral tones such as gray, beige, and white, allowing furniture and decor to stand out. Smalt can also be incorporated through textiles like curtains, cushions, or rugs, adding depth and richness to the space. When used in smaller doses, such as in decorative items like vases or artwork, it can add a pop of color without overwhelming the room. This shade is particularly effective in creating a nautical or coastal theme, especially when combined with lighter blues and sandy beiges. Consider using Smalt to paint a front door for a bold and inviting statement, reflecting a sense of timeless elegance and hospitality.
Fashion and Apparel
In fashion, Smalt can be used as a statement color for dresses, suits, or outerwear. Its deep hue complements a variety of skin tones and can be paired with both warm and cool colors. Accessorizing with Smalt-colored jewelry, handbags, or shoes can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. This color is particularly suitable for formal wear, such as evening gowns or business attire. It can also be incorporated into casual wear through denim or knitwear. When used in makeup, Smalt can serve as an eyeliner or eyeshadow, creating a dramatic and sophisticated look. Nail polish in this shade can add a touch of glamour to your overall appearance, making it a versatile color choice for various fashion applications.