Smalt
General Information about Smalt (#0D368B)
The color #0D368B, also known as Smalt, is a dark shade of blue that belongs to the blue color family. It is composed of 5.1% red, 21.2% green, and 54.5% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:13, G:54, B:139. In the CMYK color space, it is composed of 90.6% cyan, 61.2% magenta, 0% yellow, and 45.5% black. This color evokes feelings of trust, stability, and sophistication. It is often associated with authority, intelligence, and calmness. Smalt derives its name from a historical pigment made by grinding blue glass containing cobalt. Because of its rich history, this color has been used by famous painters throughout history.
The color #0D368B, a deep shade of blue often referred to as Smalt, presents some accessibility considerations for web developers. When using this color for text, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast with the background. Due to its dark nature, it requires a light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text (14pt bold or 18pt regular) to ensure usability for users with visual impairments. In cases where achieving sufficient contrast is challenging, consider using a lighter shade of blue or an entirely different color. When using #0D368B for interactive elements, provide clear visual cues beyond color alone, such as underlines or icons, to support users with color blindness.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4682b4
A lighter blue that provides better contrast against dark backgrounds, making it suitable for text and interactive elements.
- #4169e1
A vibrant, but still accessible, blue that can be used for accents and highlights while maintaining readability.
- #808080
A neutral gray that pairs well with darker blues and provides a safe option for backgrounds or borders, ensuring readability and visual clarity.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #0D368B can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as a background color for sections needing emphasis. Its rich hue evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for financial or corporate websites. However, it should be used sparingly and paired with lighter colors to avoid overwhelming the user. Furthermore, using this color for buttons or interactive elements is effective if the contrast is considered. Additionally, because it is a dark color, a good use case for it could be as a background color for texts that require the user to focus, such as scientific articles.
Interior Design
In interior design, Smalt can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a room. It works well as an accent color for walls, furniture, or decorative pieces. It can be paired with neutral tones like white, gray, or beige to create a balanced and calming atmosphere. Consider using it in rooms where relaxation and focus are desired, such as bedrooms or home offices. This color works excellent in combination with golden or silver elements.
Fashion and Branding
In fashion, #0D368B can be used in clothing or accessories to create a sophisticated and classic look. It can be incorporated into formal wear, such as suits or dresses, or used as an accent color in casual outfits. It pairs well with neutral colors like black, white, and gray, as well as warmer colors like gold or burgundy. Consider using it in accessories like scarves, ties, or handbags to add a pop of color to an outfit. Furthermore, this color can be perfect for branding, especially for businesses related to security or finance.