Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#0B378D)
The hex color #0B378D, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and sophistication. It belongs to the blue color family, which is generally associated with stability, intelligence, and serenity. In color psychology, dark blues often represent authority, knowledge, and power, making them suitable for brands and designs that want to convey professionalism and trustworthiness. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding cobalt glass, which was widely used in fine arts and decorative arts. Today, it is primarily utilized in digital design and branding, where its rich hue adds depth and elegance to various applications. When working with Smalt, it's important to consider its low luminance value, which can impact accessibility and contrast.
The color #0B378D, also known as Smalt, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, the contrast ratio is very low, making it difficult for individuals with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter color for the background or a lighter shade of Smalt for the text. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text to comply with WCAG guidelines. Additionally, avoid using color alone to convey important information; always include text labels or other visual cues. Providing alternative text descriptions for images that incorporate this color is also crucial for screen reader users. Testing the color combination with accessibility tools is highly recommended to ensure compliance and a better user experience for everyone.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
Smalt (#0B378D) can be employed as a primary color in web design for creating a sophisticated and trustworthy aesthetic. It is particularly well-suited for websites related to finance, technology, or education, where conveying a sense of reliability is paramount. It can be used for headers, footers, or as an accent color to highlight important sections of the website. However, due to its darkness, it is crucial to pair it with lighter contrasting colors for text and interactive elements to ensure readability and accessibility. It is also important to test the color combination on different devices to ensure that the color appears as intended.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can serve as a deep and calming accent color. It works well in rooms designed for relaxation, such as bedrooms or studies. The color can be used on walls (though sparingly due to its intensity), furniture, or decorative accessories like pillows and curtains. When incorporating Smalt into a room, balance it with lighter, warmer colors to prevent the space from feeling too dark or cold. Natural materials like wood and soft textiles such as linen or wool complement this color beautifully, creating a sense of understated elegance.
Fashion
In the fashion industry, Smalt can be used to create elegant and sophisticated looks. This color can be used for evening wear, formal suits, or as an accent color in accessories such as scarves or handbags. Smalt pairs well with neutral colors such as gray, beige, or black, but can also be combined with bolder colors like gold or red for a more dramatic effect. The color is suitable for both men's and women's wear and can evoke a sense of confidence and sophistication.