Catalina Blue
General Information about Catalina Blue
The hex color #0E2480, also known as Catalina Blue, is a dark shade of blue that evokes feelings of depth, stability, and sophistication. It is a color commonly associated with trust, authority, and intelligence, making it a popular choice for corporate branding and professional settings. In the RGB color model, #0E2480 is composed of 5.5% red, 14.1% green, and 50.2% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 89% cyan, 72% magenta, 0% yellow, and 50% black. This deep blue color is often used to represent the ocean or the night sky, conveying a sense of vastness and tranquility. The color name 'Catalina Blue' likely references the deep blue waters surrounding Catalina Island, off the coast of California.
The hex color #0E2480, also known as Catalina Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, primarily due to its dark nature. When used as a background color, it requires very light text (ideally white or near-white) to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), the contrast ratio between text and background should be at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to meet AA compliance. For AAA compliance, these ratios increase to 7:1 and 4.5:1 respectively. Using a color like #0E2480 without careful consideration of text color can make content difficult to read for users with visual impairments. Tools are available to check color contrast ratios and ensure compliance with accessibility standards. Also consider providing alternative color schemes or allowing users to customize colors to improve accessibility.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #29469b
A slightly lighter shade of blue that maintains a similar aesthetic but offers better contrast with darker text.
- #1f51ff
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
- #36454f
A dark grayish blue that provides a more neutral backdrop for various design elements, offering better readability.
Applications
Web Design Background
In web design, Catalina Blue can be used for headers, footers, or sidebars to create a sophisticated and professional look. Because of its depth, it works well as a background color for sections where you want to highlight key information or calls to action. To ensure readability, pair it with light-colored text and consider using a contrasting accent color to draw attention to important elements. For instance, a button with a bright yellow or orange color would stand out against the Catalina Blue background, guiding the user's eye. This color can effectively set the tone for the entire website or application.
Fashion and Apparel
In the fashion industry, Catalina Blue evokes a sense of elegance and formality. It is often used for evening wear, formal dresses, and suits. This deep blue shade also finds its place in accessories such as handbags, shoes, and scarves. Because it is a versatile color, it can be paired with metallic accents such as gold or silver for a luxurious look or combined with lighter, pastel shades for a softer, more feminine aesthetic. Catalina Blue makes a powerful and sophisticated statement, perfect for creating timeless and classic designs.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, #0E2480 can be used as an accent wall color in a living room or bedroom to add depth and sophistication. When using it as a main color, balance it with lighter shades of gray, white, or beige to prevent the room from feeling too dark. Use textures, such as velvet or silk, to enhance the luxurious feel. Metallic accents, like gold or brass, can be incorporated through light fixtures or decorative items to add a touch of glamour. The psychological effect of blue is calming, so it is well-suited to creating serene and relaxing spaces.