Dark Blue
General Information about #121BC4
The hexadecimal color #121BC4, also known as a dark blue, is composed of 7.06% red, 10.98% green, and 76.86% blue. In the RGB color space, it has values of R:18, G:27, B:196. The CMYK representation is C:0.91, M:0.86, Y:0.00, K:0.23. This particular shade of blue leans towards the darker end of the spectrum, evoking feelings of depth, stability, and perhaps even a touch of melancholy. Dark blues like #121BC4 are often associated with trust and authority, making them popular choices for corporate branding and institutional designs. However, its darkness also implies that it should be used with careful consideration to accessibility, ensuring sufficient contrast with lighter colors when used for text or interactive elements. It is a bold color choice that requires a well-considered palette to harmonize effectively.
The color #121BC4, a deep shade of blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly regarding color contrast. When used as text against a white background, it fails to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratio. This means users with low vision or color blindness may struggle to read the text. Similarly, using #121BC4 as a background color with light text can also create readability issues. To improve accessibility, consider pairing this color with much lighter hues, such as yellows or near-whites, or using it in larger font sizes and bolder weights, which can somewhat mitigate the contrast problem. It is also beneficial to provide alternative color schemes that offer better contrast for users with visual impairments. Avoid using #121BC4 for crucial elements like form fields or important call-to-action buttons without careful consideration of the surrounding colors. Using a color contrast checker is highly recommended to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
Applications
Web Design Accents
In web design, #121BC4 can be used sparingly for accents or graphical elements where strong visual impact is desired. However, it's crucial to avoid using it for large blocks of text or essential interactive elements due to its accessibility limitations. It might work well for decorative borders, icons, or as a secondary color in a larger palette where more accessible colors are dominant. When using it, consider larger font sizes, bold weights, and adequate spacing to improve readability, and always test the contrast ratio with online tools.
User Interface Elements
In user interface design, #121BC4 might find limited use due to accessibility concerns. However, it could be suitable for non-essential UI elements where visual appeal is prioritized, such as loading animations or decorative separators. It’s vital to ensure that interactive elements, like buttons and links, use colors that meet accessibility standards. Consider using this color as a highlight on mouse hover states to indicate interactivity, but always provide sufficient contrast with the background to ensure usability for all users. Never use this colour as the primary background.
Graphic Design Background
In graphic design, #121BC4 can serve as a powerful element in creating mood and tone, particularly in designs aimed at conveying depth, stability, or sophistication. Consider using this colour as a backgrop for science-themed posters, digital art, or marketing materials. Its bold hue allows it to stand out and draw attention. It is best to pair this color with lighter, contrasting colours such as white or yellow to balance it out. Avoid using it for fine print to avoid readibility issues.