Dark Blue
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #0C0ACC represents a dark shade of blue. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 4.71% red, 4.71% green, and 80% blue. This significant dominance of blue gives the color its characteristic deep hue. The color is often associated with feelings of calmness, stability, and authority. It is frequently used in corporate branding to convey trustworthiness and reliability. In design, this particular shade of blue can add a touch of sophistication and elegance. However, due to its low luminance, it's important to use it carefully and ensure sufficient contrast with other colors to maintain readability and accessibility, especially in textual content.
The hex color #0C0ACC, a deep shade of dark blue, presents some accessibility considerations for web design. Primarily, its low luminance value necessitates careful attention to contrast ratios. When used for text, it's crucial to pair it with a light background to ensure readability, ideally achieving a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text, as recommended by WCAG guidelines. Avoid using this color for critical interactive elements without sufficient contrast, as users with visual impairments may struggle to perceive them. Using color alone to convey meaning is also discouraged; always provide alternative cues like text labels or icons. When used as a background, the color should have adequate contrast with foreground elements to avoid eye strain. Consider offering users options to adjust color schemes to meet their individual needs, as sensitivity to blue varies among individuals.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter shade of blue that offers better contrast against both light and dark backgrounds, improving readability and overall accessibility.
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color, providing a safe and accessible alternative to darker blues. It works well with a variety of text colors and is less likely to cause eye strain.
A vivid shade of blue that can be used for accents and highlights. Ensure sufficient contrast with surrounding elements to maintain accessibility.
Applications
User Interface Design
In user interface design, #0C0ACC can be employed to create a sense of depth and sophistication. It can serve as a background for navigation menus or headers, providing a strong visual anchor. The color should be applied judiciously to avoid overwhelming the user with darkness, and care should be taken to ensure adequate contrast with text and icons for optimal usability. In data visualization, this color can be used to highlight specific data points or create thematic maps with a somber tone. When used for charts and graphs, it is crucial to pair it with lighter colors to differentiate data sets effectively.
Fashion and Interior Design
In the fashion industry, #0C0ACC can be utilized to design elegant evening wear or formal attire. It evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication, making it suitable for creating statement pieces. The color can be combined with metallic accents or contrasting hues to add visual interest. In interior design, this shade of dark blue can be employed to create a calming and luxurious atmosphere in bedrooms or living rooms. It can be paired with soft textures and warm lighting to enhance the sense of comfort. When used for walls or furniture, it is essential to balance it with lighter elements to prevent the space from feeling too dark.
Branding and Marketing
In branding, #0C0ACC can be used to create a sense of trust and reliability. Many financial institutions, insurance companies, and tech companies use blue in their logos and marketing materials to project an image of stability. The color can also be used to evoke feelings of calm and security, which is helpful in industries such as healthcare and wellness. Blue is an effective way to communicate a brand's values and personality.