Smalt
General Information about #0C348F
The hex color #0C348F, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue. It is a tertiary color, meaning it is created by mixing a primary color (blue) with a secondary color (in this case, a small amount of green and red to darken it). Smalt is a pigment made from potassium glass colored with cobalt. Historically, it was used in fine art painting, textile dyeing, and other decorative arts. In the RGB color model, #0C348F is composed of 4.71% red, 20.39% green, and 56.08% blue. In the CMYK color model, it is composed of 92% cyan, 64% magenta, 0% yellow, and 44% black. This deep blue hue evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. It is often associated with professionalism, authority, and knowledge, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and design.
The color #0C348F, also known as Smalt, presents certain accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it may not meet the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. Similarly, using white text on a #0C348F background may also fall short of accessibility benchmarks. To improve accessibility, consider pairing #0C348F with lighter shades of yellow, orange, or green for text, or using it as a background color with lighter tints of blues or grays for improved contrast. Ensure interactive elements like buttons or links that use this color have sufficient visual cues, such as borders or icons, to aid users in understanding their functionality. Regularly testing color combinations with accessibility tools is crucial to ensure compliance with accessibility standards and create an inclusive user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0C348F can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look for websites, especially in the finance, technology, or education sectors. It can serve as a primary color for headers, navigation bars, or call-to-action buttons. However, it's crucial to ensure sufficient color contrast with text and other elements to meet accessibility standards. This color evokes trust and reliability, making it a suitable choice for brands aiming to project credibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can add a touch of elegance and depth to a room. It can be used as an accent color on walls, furniture, or decorative accessories. Its calming properties make it suitable for bedrooms, studies, or living rooms. When paired with lighter neutrals or warm metallics like gold or copper, it can create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. Considering the lighting of the room will be important as this dark blue color may darken the space further if not properly lit.
Fashion
In fashion, #0C348F can be incorporated into clothing and accessories to create a classic and timeless look. It is a versatile color that can be paired with various colors, from neutrals to vibrant hues. A Smalt-colored dress or suit can be a statement piece for formal occasions, while accessories like scarves or handbags in this shade can add a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits.