International Klein Blue
About International Klein Blue
The hex color #1020B7, often referred to as International Klein Blue (IKB), is a deep and intense shade of blue. It's a color that's closely associated with the French artist Yves Klein, who registered it as a trademark in 1957. IKB is characterized by its rich, ultramarine hue and its almost velvety appearance, which is achieved by suspending pure color pigment in a clear synthetic resin. This gives the color an exceptional vibrancy and depth. In the RGB color model, #1020B7 is composed of 6.27% red, 12.55% green, and 71.76% blue. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 91.29% cyan, 82.51% magenta, 0% yellow, and 28.24% black. This color is considered a tertiary color, formed by mixing primary and secondary colors. Its strong presence and unique history make it a popular choice in art, design, and branding.
The hex color #1020B7, a deep, vibrant blue reminiscent of International Klein Blue, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Due to its strong hue, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast when used as a background or text color. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When pairing #1020B7 with text, lighter shades of yellow, white, or even a carefully chosen light gray would likely provide adequate contrast. Tools like WebAIM's Contrast Checker can be invaluable in verifying compliance. Avoid using #1020B7 for crucial interactive elements without a clear visual cue, as users with visual impairments may struggle to identify them. Also, be mindful of colorblind users; rely not solely on color to convey information, but also use text labels or icons.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3366cc
A slightly lighter shade of blue that provides a similar aesthetic while potentially offering better contrast against certain backgrounds.
- #4682b4
A more muted blue that can be used as a background color or for less prominent elements in a design.
- #7df9ff
A electric blue that provides a more modern aesthetic.
Applications
Web Design and UI/UX
In web design, #1020B7 can be utilized to create a visually striking and memorable brand identity. It can be used for website headers, buttons, and other prominent elements to draw attention and convey a sense of sophistication and depth. However, it's important to use it judiciously and balance it with more neutral colors to avoid overwhelming the user. Furthermore, its association with the arts can be used to inspire creativity in the layout design. In user interface design, #1020B7 can be strategically used to highlight key actions or information, creating a clear visual hierarchy.
Fashion Design
In fashion, #1020B7 can be incorporated into clothing designs to create bold and eye-catching pieces. It's a color that can be used for statement dresses, suits, or accessories. Its association with art and creativity can make a design stand out. Its depth and richness can create a sense of luxury and sophistication. It's important to consider the overall aesthetic and balance the color with complementary shades and textures.
Interior Design
Interior designers can use #1020B7 as an accent color to add a touch of drama and sophistication to a space. It can be used for painting walls, adding decorative accessories, or incorporating into furniture designs. Its depth and richness can create a sense of luxury and sophistication. It's important to consider the overall aesthetic and balance the color with complementary shades and textures. Pairing it with neutral shades like white, gray, or beige can create a harmonious and visually appealing interior.