Chathams Blue
General Information about Chathams Blue
The color #0E4A71, known as Chathams Blue, is a dark, muted shade of blue with a calming and sophisticated presence. It belongs to the blue color family, which is generally associated with tranquility, stability, and trust. In the RGB color model, #0E4A71 is composed of 5.5% red, 29% green, and 44.3% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 87.5% cyan, 34.5% magenta, 0% yellow, and 55.7% black. This color is often used to evoke feelings of serenity and professionalism, making it a popular choice for corporate branding, web design, and interior design where a sense of reliability and calm is desired. Its hex code #0E4A71 makes it easy to specify in digital design environments.
The color #0E4A71, also known as Chathams Blue, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used as a background or text color. Its relatively low lightness value (around 15%) means that sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability. According to WCAG 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. When using #0E4A71, pair it with very light colors like white (#FFFFFF) or very light grays to ensure sufficient contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help verify compliance. Avoid pairing it with mid-tone or dark colors, as this will likely result in illegible text and a poor user experience, particularly for users with visual impairments.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #2962ff
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast when used as a background color with white text.
- #1e88e5
A more vibrant blue that can be used as an accent color to draw attention to specific elements.
- #42a5f5
A softer, more muted blue that can be used for backgrounds or large areas of color without being overwhelming.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Chathams Blue can be used for headers, navigation bars, or as a background color for specific sections of a website. Its calming nature makes it suitable for websites related to finance, health, or education. When used for text, it's essential to pair it with a light color like white or a pale yellow to ensure readability. It can also be used for button backgrounds, but careful consideration should be given to the text color on the button to ensure sufficient contrast for accessibility.
Interior Design
In interior design, Chathams Blue can be used as an accent wall color or for furniture upholstery to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. It pairs well with neutral colors like gray, beige, and white. It can also be used in bathrooms to evoke a sense of cleanliness and tranquility. Accessorize with lighter shades of blue or complementary colors like orange to add visual interest and balance to the space. Consider using it in bedrooms to promote relaxation and restful sleep.
Fashion
Chathams Blue, with its deep and soothing tone, is a sophisticated choice for fashion. Consider using it for evening wear, such as dresses or suits, to project an image of elegance and poise. In casual wear, it can be incorporated into knitwear, denim, or accessories like scarves and handbags. Pair it with lighter colors like cream or white for a classic look, or with bolder colors like mustard yellow or coral for a more contemporary and eye-catching ensemble. The versatility of Chathams Blue allows it to be adapted to various styles and occasions.